Where to log in and what you need

Massachusetts unemployment claimants log in through the state's Department of Unemployment information (DUA) online portal, which is separate from the main DUA website. The login page is at mass.gov/unemployment — look for the "Claimant Portal Login" button on that page.

To log in, you will need your Social Security number and the password you created when you first filed your claim. If you do not remember your password, the portal has a "Forgot Password" option that will send a reset link to the email address on file with your account.

The portal works on most browsers and devices, though some older versions of Internet Explorer may have trouble. If you cannot access it on your phone or computer, try a different browser or device before calling for help.

Key Takeaways

  • Log in at mass.gov/unemployment using your Social Security number and the password you created when you filed your initial claim.
  • If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page to reset it by email.
  • The portal lets you file weekly claims, view payment history, and check the status of your account without calling.
  • If you cannot log in after trying password reset and a different browser, contact DUA by phone or through their online message system.
  • You do not need to create a new account each time — your login stays the same as long as your claim is active.

What you can do once you are logged in

Once inside the portal, you can file your weekly claim if your account is set up for weekly filing. Massachusetts requires most claimants to file a new claim each week to receive benefits. The portal will show you the filing window — usually Sunday through Friday — and will tell you whether you have already filed for that week.

You can also view your payment history, including the dates payments were sent and the amounts. The portal shows whether payments went to your bank account or debit card, depending on how you set up direct deposit. If a payment is missing or the amount looks wrong, the portal history is the first place to check the record.

The portal displays your account status, which tells you whether your claim is active, on hold, or closed. If your status has changed, the reason is usually shown on the same page. You can also see any pending issues — things DUA needs from you, like proof of work search or clarification about your job separation.

Resetting your password if you are locked out

If you enter your password incorrectly several times, the system will lock your account temporarily for security. This lock usually lasts 15 to 30 minutes. Wait that time and try again, or use the "Forgot Password" option when ready.

When you click "Forgot Password," the portal will ask for your Social Security number and the email address on file. DUA will send a password reset link to that email. The link works for a limited time — usually a few hours — so check your email right away, including your spam folder.

If you do not receive the reset email, check that the email address in your account is correct. You can update it through the portal settings if you have access, or call DUA to change it. The phone number for DUA customer service is on the mass.gov/unemployment page.

What to do if you cannot log in

Start by trying these steps in order: first, reset your password using the "Forgot Password" link. Second, clear your browser's cache and cookies, then try again in a different browser. Third, try logging in on a different device — phone, tablet, or computer.

If none of those work, you have two ways to reach DUA without logging in. You can call the DUA customer service line — the number is on mass.gov/unemployment — or you can use the online message system on the DUA website to send a message describing your problem. The message system does not require you to log in.

When you contact DUA, have your Social Security number ready and be specific about what happens when you try to log in — for example, "the page says my password is wrong" or "the page will not load." This helps them narrow down the problem faster.

Creating an account if you have never filed before

If you are filing a claim for the first time, you will create your login during the initial claim process. You do not log in first and then file — instead, you file your claim, and at the end of that process you set up your username and password.

Massachusetts uses your Social Security number as your username. When you create your password, make it something you can remember but others cannot guess. Write it down somewhere safe if you need to, but do not share it or store it in an email.

After you complete your initial claim, you will receive a confirmation email with information about your account. Keep that email — it contains details about your claim number and next steps. Your login will work within a few hours of filing.

Two-factor authentication and account security

Massachusetts does not currently require two-factor authentication to log into the claimant portal, though this may change. The portal does use encryption to protect your information when you log in.

To keep your account find, do not share your password with anyone, including DUA staff. DUA will never ask for your password by email or phone. If someone claiming to be from DUA asks for your password, it is a scam — hang up or delete the message and report it to the state.

If you think someone else has accessed your account, change your password when ready and contact DUA. They can review your account activity and help you find it.

Common login problems and what they mean

"Invalid username or password": This usually means you entered your Social Security number or password wrong. Check that you are using your full nine-digit Social Security number with no spaces or dashes, and that your password is spelled exactly as you created it (passwords are case-sensitive). Try the password reset option if you are not sure.

"Your account is locked": You entered the wrong password too many times. Wait 15 to 30 minutes and try again, or use "Forgot Password" to reset it now.

"This page cannot be displayed" or the page will not load: This is usually a browser or connection problem, not an account problem. Try a different browser, clear your cache, or try again in a few minutes. If it still does not work, try on a different device.

"Your claim is not found in the system": This means DUA does not have a record of your claim yet. If you just filed, wait a few hours. If you filed days ago, contact DUA to check the status of your initial claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I log in on my phone?

Yes. The DUA portal works on phones and tablets through any standard web browser. You do not need to read an app. Use the same login — your Social Security number and password — that you would use on a computer.

What if I filed a claim but never got a confirmation email?

Check your spam and junk folders first. If it is not there, contact DUA through their online message system or by phone. They can confirm whether your claim was received and help you set up your portal login if there was a problem.

Do I have to log in every time I file my weekly claim?

Yes. Each week you will log in with your Social Security number and password, then file your claim for that week. The portal remembers you are logged in for a short time, so you may not have to enter your password again if you file multiple times in one session.

What happens if I forget my Social Security number?

Your Social Security number is your username and is required to log in. If you do not know it, contact DUA by phone or mail. They can verify your identity and help you access your account, though this may take longer than a password reset.

Can someone else log into my account for me?

No. Your login is personal and should not be shared. If you need help filing your claim, DUA can walk you through it by phone, or you can ask someone to sit with you while you log in and file yourself. Never give your password to anyone.