What the South Carolina Unemployment Website Does

The South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (SCDEW) runs the state's unemployment system. Their website is where you file your initial claim, check the status of a claim you've already filed, and manage ongoing weekly certifications. You cannot file by phone or mail — the website is the only way to start a new claim, though you can call for help if you get stuck.

The site also holds information about your claim history, payment amounts, and any issues the state has flagged. If you've been denied or your claim is on hold, the reason will appear here first, often before you receive a letter in the mail.

Key Takeaways

  • You file your initial claim and all weekly certifications through the SCDEW website at dew.sc.gov; there is no phone or mail option for filing.
  • You will need your Social Security number, driver's license or ID number, and details about your last job to file a claim.
  • Weekly certifications must be submitted every week you want to receive a payment, usually on a schedule the state assigns to you.
  • If your claim is denied or put on hold, the reason appears in your online account before you receive written notice.
  • The SCDEW phone line can help you troubleshoot login problems or understand a decision, but cannot file a claim for you.

How to Create Your Account and File Your First Claim

Go to dew.sc.gov and look for the "File a Claim" or "Unemployment Benefits" link on the homepage. You will be asked to create a login account using your email address and a password you choose. Write down your email and password — you will use this account every week for as long as you are receiving benefits.

Once logged in, you will fill out a form with your personal information, your Social Security number, your driver's license or state ID number, and details about your most recent job. Have your last pay stub or a record of your employer's name, address, and phone number ready. The form will ask why you are no longer working — answer honestly whether you were laid off, quit, or fired. Your answer affects whether you are found ineligible for benefits.

After you submit, you will receive a confirmation number. Write it down. The state will review your claim and send you a decision letter by mail within one to three weeks. You can check the status of your claim by logging back into your account at any time.

Understanding Weekly Certifications and Payment Schedules

Once your claim is approved, you must certify every week that you are still unemployed and looking for work. The state assigns you a certification day — usually a specific day of the week — and you log in to your account and answer a short set of questions. Common questions ask whether you worked that week, whether you turned down a job offer, and whether you are still looking for work.

If you miss your certification important date, your payment stops. There is usually a grace period of a few days, but do not rely on it. Set a phone reminder for your certification day. Payments are deposited to a debit card the state mails you, or to a bank account you link to your account — direct deposit is faster and more reliable.

The state pays weekly, and the amount depends on your earnings history. South Carolina's maximum weekly benefit amount changes each year; check your approval letter or your account dashboard to see what you are being paid.

What to Do If You Cannot Log In or Forgot Your Password

If you cannot remember your password, click "Forgot Password" on the login page and follow the steps to reset it. The state will send a reset link to the email address you used when you created your account. Check your spam folder if you do not see it within a few minutes.

If you cannot access your account for another reason — such as a technical error or a message saying your account is locked — call the SCDEW customer service line at 803-737-2400. Have your Social Security number and email address ready. Wait times are often long, especially early in the week and early in the morning. Calling in the afternoon or late in the week may be faster.

Reading Your Claim Status and Understanding Common Holds

Log into your account and look for a section labeled "Claim Status," "My Claims," or "Benefit Information." This page shows whether your claim is approved, pending review, or denied. If there is a hold or issue, it will be listed here with a code or brief explanation.

Common holds include "Verification Pending" (the state is checking your identity or work history), "Employer Response Pending" (the state asked your former employer questions and is waiting for their reply), and "Disqualifying Issue Under Review" (the state thinks you may not be ineligible for a reason like quitting without cause). If you see a hold, read the explanation carefully and follow any instructions to submit documents or answer questions. Do not ignore it — the hold will not clear on its own.

If your claim is denied, the reason will appear in your account. Common denial reasons are that you quit your job, were fired for misconduct, or did not earn enough in your base period to meet the minimum. You have the right to file an appeal, and the instructions for doing so will be in your denial letter and in your online account.

Submitting Documents and Responding to Requests

If the state asks you to submit documents — such as a pay stub, a separation letter from your employer, or proof of identity — you will see a message in your account telling you what is needed and when it is due. Do not wait for a phone call or letter. Check your account at least twice a week so you do not miss a important date.

Most documents can be uploaded directly through your account. Look for an "Upload Documents" or "Submit Evidence" button. Take clear photos or scans of both sides of any ID, and make sure pay stubs and letters are fully readable. If you cannot upload through the website, the state will provide a fax number or mailing address in the request message.

If you miss a document important date, your claim may be denied or put on hold indefinitely. If you realize you missed a important date, call SCDEW when ready and explain. They may give you a short extension, but do not count on it.

Contacting SCDEW and Getting Help

The main customer service number is 803-737-2400. This line handles login problems, questions about your claim status, and appeals. You can also find contact information for regional offices on the SCDEW website if you prefer to visit in person, though most people resolve issues by phone or through their online account.

If you are appealing a denial, you will need to contact the SCDEW Appeals Department. The instructions and phone number will be in your denial letter. Appeals have strict important date — usually 10 to 15 days from the date of the letter — so do not delay.

The website itself has a FAQ section and links to information about work-search requirements, disqualification rules, and benefit amounts. Read these before calling, as they answer many common questions and may save you time on hold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a claim by phone or mail instead of online?

No. South Carolina only accepts claims filed through the website at dew.sc.gov. You cannot file by phone, mail, or in person. If you do not have internet access, you may be able to use a computer at a public library or a SCDEW office to file.

How long does it take to get my first payment after I file?

The state usually takes one to three weeks to review and approve your claim. Once approved, your first payment is deposited within one week. If there is a hold or issue, approval may take longer. You can check the status of your claim in your online account at any time.

What happens if I miss my weekly certification important date?

Your payment stops. There is usually a grace period of a few days, but you should certify on your assigned day every week. If you miss the important date, call SCDEW right away to ask if they will accept a late certification. Do not assume they will.

My claim was denied. Can I appeal?

Yes. Your denial letter will include instructions and a important date for filing an appeal, usually 10 to 15 days from the date of the letter. You can file the appeal through your online account or by calling the Appeals Department number in your letter. Meet the important date — late appeals are usually rejected.

I see a hold on my claim. What should I do?

Read the explanation in your account carefully. If the state is asking for documents or information, submit it as soon as possible through your account or by the method they specify. If you do not understand the hold, call SCDEW at 803-737-2400 and ask them to explain it and tell you what you need to do to clear it.