How to Apply for Unemployment

The fastest and most efficient way to apply for unemployment benefits is to visit our website at   des.nc.gov.   If you have any questions about filing a claim for unemployment benefits, or to inquire about an existing claim application, you can contact our Customer Call Center at 888-737-0259.

UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS

After filing a claim, it will take about 14 days to receive first payment. The additional $600 in federal benefits will be for weeks ending April 4 – July 31. DES is awaiting guidance for issuing those payments. Benefits owed will be paid retroactively.