How to File for Unemployment in Arizona
Updated July 2026
Quick Answer
In Arizona, unemployment claims are filed through Department of Economic Security. Most initial claims are processed within two to three weeks, though it can take longer if there's an issue with your claim.
Arizona's Department of Economic Security runs unemployment claims through its CACTUS online portal, and applicants must clear an ID.me identity check to prevent stolen-identity claims. A notable local detail: Arizona still offers a paper mail-in application (in English and Spanish) as a backup for people who can't file online.
What You'll Need
- Social Security number
- Driver's license or state-issued ID number
- County of residence and mailing address
- Employer names, addresses, and phone numbers for the last 18 months
- Alien Registration Number, if applicable
- DD214, SF8, or SF50 if recently military or federal employee
-
1
Collect your paperwork before you start
Have your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID number, county of residence, and full employer history for the last 18 months (names, addresses, phone numbers, last day worked, and any severance or vacation payout).
-
2
Apply through the CACTUS portal
File anytime at uibenefits.az.gov; ARIZONA@WORK offices also offer free computer access if you don't have your own.
-
3
Verify your identity with ID.me
DES requires ID.me identity verification to confirm you're the real claimant and not someone using stolen information, so be ready to complete this step as part of, or shortly after, your application.
-
4
Watch for your Monetary Determination and UI Guide
About a week after filing, DES sends you the Guide to Arizona UI Benefits and your Monetary Determination letter by your chosen communication method.
-
5
Attend your RESEA appointment if scheduled
Many claimants are scheduled for a virtual Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment appointment, which is a required part of maintaining eligibility.
-
6
File weekly claims for payment
Certify weekly through the CACTUS portal to keep benefits flowing; direct deposit is available, or you'll receive a Comerica Electronic Payment Card.
File Your Claim
Compare Other States
Unemployment rules, benefit amounts, and filing steps are set state by state. These share Arizona's census region — useful if you're moving, or comparing how another state runs the program.
Helpful Guides
Unemployment Eligibility Requirements: Who Qualifies
The three tests every state uses to decide unemployment eligibility, and the separation reasons that typically help or hurt your claim.
Learn more →How Unemployment Benefits Work
A plain-English overview of how the joint federal-state unemployment insurance system works, from filing your first claim to your last payment.
Learn more →Unemployment Benefits for Self-Employed and Gig Workers
Regular unemployment insurance is built around W-2 payroll taxes, which is why freelancers and gig workers usually do not qualify — here is what does apply.
Learn more →Partial Unemployment Benefits: Working Part-Time While on Unemployment
Taking part-time work does not automatically end your unemployment claim — most states let you keep a reduced payment if you report your earnings correctly.
Learn more →