Where to log in and what you need

Massachusetts unemployment accounts are managed through the MassLaborLookup portal, which is run by the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment information (DUA). You log in at mass.gov/unemployment, not through a separate website or app. The portal handles both filing new claims and managing existing ones.

To log in, you will need either your Social Security number or the account username you created when you first filed. You will also need the password you set up. If you do not have a username yet, the system will walk you through creating one during your first visit.

The login page itself is straightforward — it asks for your username (or Social Security number) and password, then sends a code to your phone or email for two-factor verification. This extra step is required every time you log in for security.

Key Takeaways

  • Log in at mass.gov/unemployment using your Social Security number or username and password.
  • You will receive a verification code by text or email each time you log in — this is normal and required.
  • If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page to reset it with your email address.
  • Once logged in, you can file weekly claims, check your payment status, and update your contact information.
  • If you cannot log in after trying the password reset, contact DUA directly at 877-626-6800 during business hours.

Resetting a forgotten password

Click the "Forgot Password" link on the login page. The system will ask for your username or Social Security number, then send a password reset link to the email address on file with your account. Check your email (including spam folders) for a message from mass.gov.

The reset link is usually valid for 24 hours. Click it, create a new password, and then return to the login page to enter your new credentials. Make sure your new password is at least 12 characters long and includes uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and a special character (like ! or #).

If you do not receive the reset email within a few minutes, try requesting it again. If the email address on file is no longer active, you will need to call DUA to update it before you can reset your password online.

What to do if you cannot log in

If you have tried resetting your password and still cannot access your account, the problem may be that your account was not fully set up or that there is a hold on your claim. Before calling, try logging in from a different browser or device — sometimes cached login information causes problems.

If that does not work, contact the DUA directly at 877-626-6800. Lines are busiest early in the week and early in the morning. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. DUA staff can verify your identity, unlock your account, or help you create a new login if your old one is no longer working.

If you are calling about a claim that was denied or stopped, DUA may ask you to provide additional documents before restoring your access. This is common if there are questions about your work history or reason for separation from your job.

Filing your weekly claim after logging in

Once you are logged in, you will see a dashboard showing your claim status and any actions that need your attention. To file your weekly claim, look for the button labeled "File Weekly Claim" or "Weekly Certification." You must file every week you want to receive benefits, even if you worked part-time or earned some income.

The weekly form asks whether you worked, how many hours you worked, and how much you earned. It also asks whether you refused any job offers or had any other changes in your situation. Answer honestly — misreporting your work or income can result in overpayment notices and penalties.

You have until the end of the week (usually Sunday at 11:59 p.m.) to file your weekly claim. Filing early is safer than waiting until the last day, in case you encounter a technical problem. Once you submit, you will see a confirmation number on screen.

Checking your payment status and payment method

Your dashboard shows the status of each week you have filed — whether it is pending, approved, or paid. It also displays the payment amount and the date the payment was issued. Most payments are sent by debit card (the Massachusetts Debit Card) or direct deposit, depending on what you chose when you filed your claim.

If you set up direct deposit, the payment usually arrives in your bank account within one to two business days after it is issued. If you are using the debit card, the payment is available when ready once it is issued, but you may need to set up the card or set up a PIN the first time you use it.

If a payment shows as issued but you have not received it after three business days, log back in and check whether your bank account or card information needs updating. You can change your payment method in the account settings section of the portal.

Updating your contact information and work search records

Your account settings let you update your phone number, email address, and mailing address. It is important to keep these current because DUA uses them to contact you about your claim, send payment confirmations, and notify you of any issues that need your attention.

Massachusetts requires you to search for work while you are receiving benefits, unless you are in a specific category (such as on a temporary layoff or in a union hiring hall). You do not file your work search records in the MassLaborLookup portal itself — instead, you keep them on your own and bring them if DUA asks to see them. Records should include the date, employer name, job title, and how you applied (online, in person, by phone).

If DUA requests your work search records, they will send you a notice through the portal or by mail. Respond within the important date they give you, or your benefits may be stopped.

Technical problems and browser requirements

The MassLaborLookup portal works best on recent versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge. If you are using an older browser or Internet Explorer, you may see error messages or features that do not load properly. Try updating your browser or switching to a different one.

If the portal is slow or timing out, try clearing your browser cache and cookies, then log in again. If the entire site appears to be down, check the DUA website or social media accounts for a notice about scheduled maintenance — the portal sometimes goes offline for updates on weekday evenings.

If you are having trouble on a mobile phone, try logging in on a computer instead. The mobile version of the portal has fewer features and sometimes does not display forms correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to log in every week to file my claim?

Yes. You must log in and file your weekly claim every week you want to receive benefits. The system does not auto-file, and missing a week means you will not receive a payment for that week, even if you are still unemployed.

What if I forgot my username?

Use your Social Security number instead of your username to log in. Once you are logged in, you can view your username in your account settings if you need it in the future.

Can I log in from my phone?

Yes, but the mobile version of the portal is limited. You can file your weekly claim and check your payment status, but some features work better on a computer. If you run into problems, try logging in on a desktop or laptop instead.

How long does it take to receive my payment after I file my weekly claim?

Payments are usually issued within three to five business days after you file. Once issued, direct deposit payments arrive in one to two business days, and debit card payments are available when ready.

What should I do if my account was locked?

Call DUA at 877-626-6800. Accounts are sometimes locked after multiple failed login attempts or if there is a question about your claim. DUA staff can unlock your account or help you regain access.