How to File for Unemployment in North Dakota

North Dakota's Job Service ties your unemployment claim to the same statewide login used for things like hunting and fishing licenses, then walks you through the rest in a system called UI ICE. One quirk worth knowing: your claim's effective date is always the Sunday of the week you actually filed, so waiting even a few days to apply can cost you a paid week.

Updated July 2026

1. 1

   Check eligibility and set up a State of ND Login

   Go to Job Service North Dakota's site and create, or reuse, your State of North Dakota Login ID — the same one used for other ND government services — since you'll need it to reach UI ICE.

2. 2

   Log into UI ICE

   From the Unemployment for Individuals page, log into UI ICE, the Unemployment Insurance Internet Claims Entry system, using your ND Login plus your Social Security number and date of birth.

3. 3

   File your initial claim

   From the UI ICE main menu, choose to file a new claim; your claim becomes effective the Sunday of the week you submit it, so file as soon as you're out of work.

4. 4

   Save your progress as you go

   UI ICE times out, so hit Save/Continue at least every 30 minutes or risk losing unsaved answers.

5. 5

   Complete your one-time waiting week

   North Dakota requires exactly one unpaid waiting week per benefit year — you still have to certify for it, you just won't be paid for it.

6. 6

   Certify weekly and track your claim

   Return to UI ICE to file weekly certifications and review your to-do list, determinations, payment history, and 1099-G forms.

Verified against the official North Dakota unemployment agency site. View source