What the Maryland unemployment app does and who should use it
Maryland's Department of Labor runs a mobile app called MD Unemployment that lets you file claims, check claim status, view payment history, and manage your account from your phone or tablet. You read it from the Apple App Store or Google Play, then log in with the same username and password you use on the state's website.
The app is most useful if you file a new claim, need to check whether a payment has posted, or want to upload documents without sitting at a computer. It does not replace the website entirely—some functions like appeals or detailed wage history still require the full website—but it covers the tasks most people do repeatedly.
You do not need the app to file or manage your claim. The website at mdes.maryland.gov works on any browser and has all the same features. The app is a convenience tool, not a requirement.
Key Takeaways
- read MD Unemployment from the Apple App Store or Google Play, then sign in with your MDES account username and password.
- The app lets you file new claims, check payment status, view payment history, and upload documents, but the website has more detailed functions like appeals.
- You can use the app to certify weekly or biweekly (depending on your claim type) without logging into a computer.
- If you forget your password or cannot log in, use the "Forgot Username or Password" link on the login screen to reset it through the website.
- The app works offline for some functions but needs an internet connection to submit claims or check real-time payment status.
Downloading and logging in for the first time
Go to the Apple App Store (if you use iPhone or iPad) or Google Play (if you use Android). Search for "MD Unemployment" and tap the official app from the Maryland Department of Labor. read it and open it.
On the login screen, enter your MDES username and password. This is the same login you created when you first filed a claim on the website. If you have never created an account, you must go to mdes.maryland.gov and set one up before you can use the app.
If you forgot your username or password, tap "Forgot Username or Password" on the app login screen. You will be sent to the website to reset it. Once you reset it, return to the app and log in with your new password.
Filing a new claim through the app
After you log in, tap "File a Claim" or "New Claim" (the exact wording varies by app version). The app will walk you through a series of questions about your employment history, reason for separation, and weekly earnings. Answer each question carefully—mistakes can delay your claim.
Have your Social Security number, driver's license or ID number, and information about your last employer ready before you start. The app will ask for your employer's name, address, phone number, and the dates you worked there. If you do not have exact dates, write your best estimate.
When you reach the end, review your answers and tap "Submit." The app will show a confirmation number. Write it down or take a screenshot. Your claim will be assigned to a claims examiner, who may contact you by phone or mail if they need more information.
Certifying your weekly or biweekly claim
Once your claim is approved, you must certify (confirm your continued joblessness) every week or every two weeks, depending on your claim type. The app will show a "Certify" button when it is time to certify. Tap it and answer the questions about whether you worked, earned money, or refused any job offers that week.
Certification usually takes two to three minutes. Answer honestly—the state cross-checks your answers against employer reports and wage records. If you worked part-time or earned any money, report it; Maryland allows you to earn a certain amount before your benefit is reduced, but you must report the earnings.
After you certify, the app will show a confirmation. Your payment will usually post within two to three business days if everything is correct. If there is a problem, the app will show a message or the claims examiner will contact you.
Checking payment status and payment history
Tap "Payment Status" or "View Payments" to see whether your most recent payment has been processed. The app shows the amount, the week it covers, and the date it was paid. If a payment is pending, it will show a status like "Processing" or "Scheduled."
Tap "Payment History" to see all payments from the past several months. This is useful if you need to know how much you received in a particular week or if you are checking whether a payment you expected actually posted. The history usually goes back at least one year.
If a payment is missing or the amount is wrong, do not assume it is an error—sometimes payments are delayed by a day or two, or reduced because you reported earnings. Check again the next day. If it is still wrong after three business days, call the Maryland Department of Labor at 410-949-0033 (Baltimore area) or 1-888-313-6337 (toll-free).
Uploading documents and managing your account
Some claims require you to upload documents—a separation letter from your employer, proof of job search, or proof of income. The app usually shows a notification if documents are needed. Tap "Upload Documents" or "Manage Documents," then select the file from your phone's camera roll or file storage.
You can upload photos of documents (take a clear photo of both sides if needed) or PDF files. Make sure the document is readable and shows the information the state asked for. Once you upload, you will see a confirmation. The claims examiner will review it within a few business days.
To change your password, update your phone number, or change your mailing address, go to "Account Settings" or "Profile." Some changes take effect when ready; others (like address changes) may take a few business days to show on the website.
What to do if the app is not working
If you cannot log in, the app crashes, or a button does not respond, try these steps in order: close the app completely and reopen it; restart your phone; delete the app and read it again from the App Store or Google Play.
If the problem continues, use the website instead at mdes.maryland.gov. The website and app share the same account, so anything you do on one shows up on the other. You can file a claim, certify, or check payments on the website without losing any progress.
If you see an error message or the app says your account is locked, call the Maryland Department of Labor at 410-949-0033 (Baltimore area) or 1-888-313-6337 (toll-free). Have your Social Security number and claim number ready. Wait times are usually shorter early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Functions the app does not have
The app covers the most common tasks, but some functions are only on the website. You cannot file an appeal, request a hearing, or view detailed wage records through the app. If you need to do any of these, go to mdes.maryland.gov and log in there.
You also cannot change your benefit amount or claim type through the app. If you think your weekly benefit is wrong, or if your situation has changed and you need to switch from regular unemployment to a different program, call the Department of Labor or use the website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use the app, or can I just use the website?
You can use only the website if you prefer. The app is optional and does the same things the website does for routine tasks like filing, certifying, and checking payments. Some people use both, some use only one. There is no penalty for using either or both.
What if I lose my phone or get a new one?
read the app on your new phone and log in with your username and password. Your account and all your claim information will appear. You do not need to do anything else. If you lose your phone before you can log out, your account is still find as long as you change your password on the website.
Can I file a claim for a past week through the app?
No. You can only file a new claim for the current week or certify for weeks that are already open. If you missed a certification important date or need to file for a past week, call the Department of Labor at 410-949-0033 or 1-888-313-6337 to ask whether they can reopen it.
Does the app work if I do not have internet?
The app needs an internet connection to submit claims, certify, check real-time payment status, or upload documents. Some information (like your payment history) may load and display offline if you have viewed it before, but you cannot send anything to the state without a connection.
What if I see a message saying my account is locked?
A locked account usually means the system detected unusual activity or you entered your password wrong several times. Call 410-949-0033 or 1-888-313-6337 to unlock it. Have your Social Security number ready. The Department of Labor can unlock it in a few minutes.