How Do I Check My Unemployment Benefits with the Arizona Department of Economic Security?

Employees out of work can file for unemployment insurance claims to receive their benefits as long as they meet the eligibility requirements. However, you must file weekly claims if you want to continue receiving your benefits. This is done even as the initial claim is still pending. The state requires unemployed workers to file their weekly claims for them to receive the benefits for that week.

You can contact Arizona department of economic security hotline from 12.01 a.m. Sunday to 6.00 p.m. on Friday. You can also file your weekly claims. Most employees prefer using online method as it's convenient and takes less time to complete or check your benefits.

Currently the department of economic security is receiving many phone calls which results in some people getting a busy signal reception. It's good to try to reconnect or you can visit the Arizona department of economic security website and check your unemployment benefits.

When Can I Expect to Get My First Unemployment Benefit Payment?

First, you must have already earned the minimum wages in your base quarter period before you can qualify to receive the benefit payments. Check your wage statement or UB-107 for your weekly benefit amount and your total award in case your base period earnings meet the minimum eligibility requirements. In case there is another eligibility problem, ensure it's resolved for you to receive your first unemployment benefit payment.

The first week of unemployment is still regarded as the waiting period. Therefore, you don't receive benefit payment for that week.

So, if there is no issue with your eligibility for unemployment benefit, you can expect to receive your benefit payment after filing your second weekly unemployment claim. The payment is made within 10 business days after filing and approval of your claim.

What Are These Eligibility Issues That Can Affect Your First Benefit Payment?

For instance, if you have received payment for unused vacation, severance pay or sick leave, someone from the department has to verify that amount. The staff will verify the amount, date among other information before making a decision or clearing your claim to receive the benefit payment.

In most cases, it all hinges on whether you have been determined to be eligible to receive the benefits. Always file your weekly claim if you are still unemployed. Missing to file the weekly claim for two or more consecutive weeks leads to your claim being rendered inactive.

How Do I Receive My Payment?

Once you qualify for the unemployment benefit payment, you are automatically enrolled in the EPC (Electronic Payment Card) program. Your card will arrive at your address via mail in less than a week after the initial unemployment application is processed as long as you meet the earning eligibility requirement.

The EPC card will read zero balance until the first claim benefit payment is processed.

How Long Will I Receive the Unemployment Benefits?

Arizona department of economic security pays unemployment benefits for 26 weeks as long as you consistently file your weekly claims. The payment amount is subject to your earnings in your base period. If you return to work or in case you have a deductible income in any of the weeks, you receive benefit payments for less than 26 weeks.

The total amount you can receive in a year is your maximum benefit amount and you can get that information in your wage statement, which is also your monetary determination.