How to File for Unemployment in Vermont
Updated July 2026
Quick Answer
In Vermont, unemployment claims are filed through Department of Labor. Most initial claims are processed within two to three weeks, though it can take longer if there's an issue with your claim.
Vermont routes claims through its Claimant e-Services system, which requires signing in with a myVermont account rather than a separate unemployment-only login. A distinctive quirk here is the 'benefit year' — once you establish a claim it stays open for 12 months, and if you've already filed within that window you're supposed to reopen your existing claim rather than start a brand-new one.
What You'll Need
- Social Security number
- A valid email address for a myVermont account
- Names, addresses, and dates of employment for recent employers
- Bank account and routing number for direct deposit
- Reason for separation from each employer
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1
Check whether you need a new claim or a reopened one
If you've drawn Vermont unemployment at any point in the last 12 months, log in to check your status — you'll usually reopen that claim instead of starting fresh.
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2
Set up or log into your myVermont account
An email address is required to establish a claim, since the Department of Labor sends claim updates and correspondence by email.
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3
Submit your initial claim online or by phone
File through the Claimant e-Services portal, or call the initial-claims line at (877) 214-3330 (Monday–Thursday 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.–4 p.m.) if you'd rather talk to someone.
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4
Wait for your monetary determination
After your claim processes, Vermont mails you a monetary eligibility determination, typically within 3 to 4 days.
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5
Read your rights and responsibilities before certifying
You'll be required to confirm you've reviewed the claimant handbook before your first weekly claim is accepted.
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6
File weekly claims on the right schedule
Each week runs Sunday through Saturday, but you file between Sunday at midnight and Friday at 4 p.m. — either online or through the automated phone line at 1-800-983-2300.
File Your Claim
Compare Other States
Unemployment rules, benefit amounts, and filing steps are set state by state. These share Vermont'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 →