Filing an Unemployment Claim - Ohio

Please select a topic below:

You must be unemployed through no fault of your own, and you must have earned sufficient wages in your base period (the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before the start date of your claim, or alternatively the last 4 quarters). Also, you must be able and available for full-time work.

You can apply online or over the phone by calling 1-877-644-6562.

Your weekly benefit amount is computed at 50% of your average weekly wage during your base period. However, in no case may the weekly benefit amount exceed the state’s annually established maximums. The maximum levels are based on the statewide average weekly wage and the number of dependents claimed. For an estimate, you can use the Department of Job and Family Services Benefits Estimator.

The length of time that you will receive benefits is also based on how much you made during the base period, but not more than 26 weeks.

You must continue to file weekly online or at an OhioMeansJobs center. Also, you must continue to be able and available for full-time work. You must actively seek employment while keeping a record of your work search activities. Finally, you must accept suitable work.

You must appeal in writing within 21 days of the date of the decision for denial. Decisions may be appealed online, by fax, or by mail. Also, you must keep filing your weekly claims regularly because you will only be paid for weeks you filed if you win your appeal.

Tracking image for JustAnswer widget
Tracking image for JustAnswer widget
Scroll to Top

Madeline Messa

Madeline Messa is a 3L at Syracuse University College of Law. She graduated from Penn State with a degree in journalism. With her legal research and writing for Workplace Fairness, she strives to equip people with the information they need to be their own best advocate.