How to File for Unemployment in Utah

Utah's Department of Workforce Services runs everything through a single online portal — there's no walk-in or paper option for a new claim, so plan on sitting down at a computer for about half an hour once you've lost your job or had your hours cut. The application is split into six locked sections, so gather your paperwork before you start since you can't go back and edit a section once you submit it.

Updated July 2026

1. 1

   Confirm you're eligible before you start

   You need to have been separated from a job or had your hours reduced, and you must be inside the U.S. or Canada — DWS won't pay benefits to someone filing from abroad.

2. 2

   Collect your work and ID details

   Have your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID number, and the names, dates, and pay-stub addresses for every employer you've worked for over roughly the last year and a half ready to enter.

3. 3

   File online through the DWS claim portal

   Go through the six sections of the online application — identity/eligibility questions, personal info, employment history, eligibility questions, separation statements, and a final wrap-up screen — available daily from 2:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.

4. 4

   Add your direct deposit info if you want it

   If you'd rather skip a paper check, have your bank account and routing number on hand to set up direct deposit during the application.

5. 5

   Watch for confirmation and next steps

   Once submitted you can't edit that section again, so the final 'Finalize Your Claim' screen explains what you need to do to keep the claim active going forward.

6. 6

   File your weekly claims

   After your initial claim is on file, log back into the same portal each week to file for continued benefits, or call the Claims Assistance and Re-Employment Team if you get stuck.

Verified against the official Utah unemployment agency site. View source