How to File for Unemployment in Maine
Maine's Department of Labor handles claims through a portal called ReEmployME, and the state is blunt that any week you delay before applying is a week of benefits you can't recover — so the advice is to file the moment you're out of work rather than waiting.
This site is an independent, non-government unemployment directory and isn't affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Department of Labor, any state workforce agency, or other official entity. Always verify details directly with the official agency before visiting or applying.
What You'll Need
- ReEmployME account
- Social Security number
- Alien Registration number and expiration date (if applicable)
- Employment information
- Valid email address
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1
Confirm you qualify
Review Maine's eligibility rules before you start; benefits only cover weeks after you actually file, never retroactively.
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2
Set up a ReEmployME account
Create your login at maine.gov/reemployme before you can submit anything.
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3
File your claim online
Complete the application in ReEmployME; if you'd rather not use a computer, call the unemployment line at 1-800-593-7660.
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4
Have your details on hand
You'll need your Social Security number, your Alien Registration number and its expiration date if you're not a citizen, a valid email address, and your recent employment details.
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5
Certify weekly for as long as you're out of work
Log back into ReEmployME to file your ongoing weekly claims, or use the site's virtual assistant, Blue, if you get stuck along the way.
File Your Claim
Compare Other States
Unemployment rules, benefit amounts, and filing steps are set state by state. These share Maine'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 →