Information for Workers

Unemployment Insurance programs provide partial protection for workers against loss of wages during periods of involuntary unemployment. The benefits paid to insured workers bolster the economy of the state during periods of economic recession by helping maintain the level of consumer purchasing power.

Workers should file for benefits as soon as they become unemployed. A delay in filing may result in loss of benefits. A claim for unemployment insurance benefits can be filed via the Internet or by telephone.

Payment of benefits under the regular program is made from a trust fund supported by contributions from private for-profit employers and payments by governmental and nonprofit employers who reimburse in lieu of paying contributions. No part of the contribution is deducted from a worker's wages.

Eligible claimants may qualify for up to 26 weeks of unemployment benefits under Missouri's regular unemployment benefits program.

The Division of Employment Security investigates improper payments to claimants as well as employer and claimant fraud.

Wage information and other confidential unemployment insurance information may be requested and utilized for other governmental purposes including, but not limited to, verification of an individual's eligibility for other governmental programs.