Where to log in and what you'll see

Florida's unemployment system is called CONNECT, and you log in at connect.myflorida.com. Once you're in, you can see the status of your claim, view payment history, upload documents, and respond to requests from the Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO).

The login page asks for your Social Security number and a password you created when you first filed. If you haven't filed yet, you'll need to create an account before you can log in — that happens on the same website, but through a separate "New Claimant" path.

After you log in, the dashboard shows your claim status at the top. It will say things like "Active," "Pending," "Ineligible," or "Disqualified." Below that you'll find sections for payment information, claim history, and any messages or requests from DEO.

Key Takeaways

  • CONNECT is Florida's unemployment system, and you log in at connect.myflorida.com using your Social Security number and password.
  • Your dashboard displays your claim status, payment history, and any open requests or documents DEO needs from you.
  • If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page — you'll answer security questions or get a reset email.
  • DEO sends important notices through CONNECT messages, not always by mail, so check your account at least weekly while your claim is active.
  • If you can't log in after trying password reset, call the DEO customer service line or visit a local CareerSource office for account recovery help.

Resetting your password if you're locked out

Click "Forgot Password" on the CONNECT login page. You'll be asked to enter your Social Security number, and then the system will either send a reset link to the email address on file or ask you to answer security questions you set up when you created your account.

The reset email arrives within a few minutes. If you don't see it, check your spam folder — many email providers flag automated messages from government systems. The reset link is usually good for 24 hours, so use it quickly.

If you can't remember the security questions you answered, or if the email address on file is no longer active, you'll need to contact DEO directly. Call 1-833-352-7759 (the main customer service line) or visit a local CareerSource office with a photo ID. They can verify your identity and reset your account.

What to do if your claim status says "Pending"

A "Pending" status means DEO is still reviewing your claim and hasn't made a decision yet. This usually takes one to three weeks from the date you filed, but can take longer if DEO needs more information from you.

Check your CONNECT messages regularly — DEO will post requests there before they send anything by mail. Common requests include proof of identity, proof of work history, or clarification about why you left your job. The message will tell you the important date to respond, usually 10 to 14 days.

Upload documents directly in CONNECT if you can. Go to the "Documents" or "Upload" section and attach what DEO asked for. Take a photo of paper documents with your phone if you don't have a scanner — the system accepts JPG and PDF files. If you can't upload, you can mail documents to the address DEO provides in the message, but mailing takes longer.

Understanding payment status and payment history

Once your claim is approved, your CONNECT dashboard will show a "Payment" or "Benefit Payment" section. This tells you how much you're may have access to to per week, how many weeks of benefits remain, and when your next payment is scheduled.

Florida pays unemployment benefits by debit card, not by check or direct deposit. The card is issued by a bank that DEO contracts with, and the money appears on the card on the payment date shown in CONNECT. You can use the card like any other debit card at ATMs and stores.

Your payment history shows every week you've been paid, the amount, and the date. If a week shows "Not Paid" or "Held," click on it to see why — common reasons include a missing weekly certification, a wage report that made you ineligible that week, or a hold pending identity verification.

Weekly certifications and why they matter

Every week you receive benefits, you must certify that you're still unemployed and looking for work. In CONNECT, this is called your "Weekly Claim" or "Weekly Certification." You'll see a prompt on your dashboard when it's time to certify, usually on Sunday or Monday of each week.

The certification asks whether you worked that week, how much you earned if you did work, and whether you're still able and available to work. Answer honestly — DEO cross-checks your answers against wage reports from employers and other state records. If you miss a week's certification, you won't be paid for that week, even if you're otherwise may be able to access.

You have until the end of the week to certify, but don't wait. Certify as soon as the option appears in CONNECT. If you're traveling or away from your computer, you can certify on your phone using the CONNECT mobile app or the website on a mobile browser.

What to do if you see a disqualification or ineligibility notice

If your claim status changes to "Ineligible" or "Disqualified," DEO will post a notice in your CONNECT messages explaining why. Common reasons include earning too much money, quitting your job without good cause, or being fired for misconduct.

Read the notice carefully and check the facts. If DEO made an error — for example, they counted wages that shouldn't count, or they misunderstood why you left your job — you have the right to appeal. The notice will include an appeal important date, usually 20 days from the date of the decision.

To appeal, log into CONNECT and look for an "Appeal" button or link near the disqualification notice. You'll fill out a form explaining why the decision is wrong. You can also mail a written appeal to the address on the notice. After you appeal, DEO will schedule a hearing, usually by phone, where you can explain your side. Bring any documents that support your case — pay stubs, emails from your employer, medical records if you quit for health reasons.

Troubleshooting common login and account problems

If you see an error message like "Invalid Username or Password," first make sure you're entering your Social Security number correctly — it should be nine digits with no dashes or spaces. Then try the "Forgot Password" link to reset your password.

If the website is very slow or won't load, it may be experiencing high traffic. Try again in a few minutes, or try a different web browser. CONNECT works best on Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.

If you've been locked out after too many failed login attempts, wait 15 minutes before trying again. The system temporarily blocks access to prevent unauthorized use.

If you still can't log in after trying these steps, call 1-833-352-7759 or visit a CareerSource office. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. Staff can verify your identity and help you regain access to your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I log into CONNECT on my phone?

Yes. You can use the CONNECT mobile app (search "Florida CONNECT" in the Apple App Store or Google Play) or open connect.myflorida.com in your phone's web browser. The mobile app is often faster and lets you certify weekly claims and upload documents easily.

What if I forgot the email address I used to create my account?

Call 1-833-352-7759 and tell them you need to update your email address on file. They'll verify your identity and change it for you. After that, password resets will go to your new email.

How long does it take to see a payment after I certify?

Payments usually appear on your debit card within two to three business days after you certify. Your CONNECT dashboard shows the scheduled payment date. If a payment is late, check your messages in CONNECT to see if there's a hold or issue.

Can someone else log into my account for me?

No. Your CONNECT account is personal and password-protected. If you need help, you can call DEO or visit a CareerSource office in person, and staff can answer questions about your claim without logging in as you.

What if my claim was denied and I don't understand why?

Read the disqualification notice in your CONNECT messages — it explains the reason and the law DEO applied. If you disagree, you have 20 days to appeal. Call 1-833-352-7759 if the notice is unclear, and ask them to explain the decision before you decide whether to appeal.