How to File for Unemployment in Maryland
Updated July 2026
Quick Answer
In Maryland, unemployment claims are filed through Division of Unemployment Insurance. Most initial claims are processed within two to three weeks, though it can take longer if there's an issue with your claim.
Maryland's Division of Unemployment Insurance runs claims through its BEACON portal, and stands out for requiring claimants to also register separately with the Maryland Workforce Exchange and log three job-search activities there every week before they're even allowed to submit their weekly certification.
What You'll Need
- Social Security number
- Address, phone number, and email address
- Employment history for the last 18 months (employer name, address, phone, dates, separation reason)
- Dependent names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers (if applicable)
- Bank account and routing number for direct deposit
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1
Check the wage math
Maryland requires you to have earned at least $1,176.01 in one quarter and at least $1,800 across two quarters of your 18-month base period; weekly payments then range from $50 to $430 depending on prior earnings.
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2
Collect your information
Have your Social Security number, contact details, and 18 months of employer names, addresses, phone numbers, and separation reasons ready; add dependent details, a DD-214, SF-8/SF-50, or union info if any apply to your situation.
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3
File in BEACON or by phone
Apply online at beacon.labor.maryland.gov, or call a claims agent at 667-207-6520 (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.); expect up to 21 days for a decision either way.
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4
Register with the Maryland Workforce Exchange
This is a separate site from BEACON — sign up there and log three job-search activities every week before you certify, even during weeks you're just waiting on your first payment.
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5
Certify weekly starting Sunday
Once your work search is logged, complete your weekly certification in BEACON, the MD Unemployment mobile app (your first claim can't be filed via the app), or the automated line at 410-949-0022, and write down your confirmation number.
File Your Claim
Compare Other States
Unemployment rules, benefit amounts, and filing steps are set state by state. These share Maryland'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 →