The login portal for Massachusetts unemployment is called the MassLaborOnline system, and you reach it through mass.gov/unemployment

The state does not have a separate login page — you go directly to the main unemployment website and select "Login" in the upper right corner. This takes you to the MassLaborOnline portal, where you enter your Social Security number and password. If you have never logged in before, you will need to create an account first, which requires your Social Security number, date of birth, and an email address you can access.

The system is available 24 hours a day, though the state sometimes takes it offline for maintenance on Sunday evenings. If you cannot log in during those windows, wait until Monday morning. The portal works on desktop browsers and mobile devices, though some features (like uploading documents) work better on a computer.

Key Takeaways

  • You create your MassLaborOnline account using your Social Security number, date of birth, and an active email address.
  • The login page is at mass.gov/unemployment — there is no separate login URL.
  • Once logged in, you can file weekly claims, view payment history, update your address, and upload documents like separation notices.
  • If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page; the state will email you a reset link within minutes.
  • The system is offline for maintenance most Sunday evenings, so plan to log in during weekday business hours if you have a important date.

Creating your account for the first time

When you visit mass.gov/unemployment and click "Login," you will see an option to create a new account if you do not have one. Select that option and enter your Social Security number. The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your personal history — these are drawn from public records and are designed so only you can answer them correctly.

After you pass the identity verification, you will create a username and password. The password must be at least 12 characters long and include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and a special character (like ! or @). Write this password down or store it in a password manager, because you will need it every time you log in.

Once your account is created, you can log in when ready. The system will ask you to set up two-factor authentication — this means you will receive a code by text or email each time you log in from a new device. This extra step protects your account from unauthorized access.

What you can do once you are logged in

The MassLaborOnline dashboard shows your claim status, payment history, and any messages from the Department of Unemployment information. If you have an open claim, you will see a button to file your weekly claim — this is where you report your work search activities and confirm you are still unemployed.

You can also update your mailing address, phone number, and email address in the account settings. If you need to upload documents (like a separation notice from your employer or proof of job search), there is an upload section in the portal. Some claims require you to upload documents within a certain number of days, so check your messages regularly for requests.

The system also shows your payment method — whether payments go to a debit card, direct deposit, or check — and lets you change it if needed. If you have questions about a specific payment or notice, you can message the Department through the portal, though responses typically take one to three business days.

Troubleshooting login problems

If you forget your password, click "Forgot Password" on the login page. The state will email you a link to reset it within a few minutes. Check your spam folder if you do not see the email in your inbox. The reset link expires after 24 hours, so use it promptly.

If you cannot remember your Social Security number or date of birth, you cannot reset your account yourself — you will need to call the Department of Unemployment information at 877-626-6800. Wait times are longest on Monday and Tuesday mornings. Have your Social Security card or a government ID ready when you call.

If the system says your identity verification failed, it usually means the answers you gave did not match the records the system pulled. You can try again, but if you fail three times, you will need to call the Department to verify your identity by phone. This process takes about 15 minutes and clears the way for you to create your account.

If you are locked out of your account after too many failed login attempts, wait 30 minutes and try again. If the lockout persists, call 877-626-6800 and ask them to unlock your account.

Staying find while you log in

Always log in through mass.gov/unemployment, not through a link in an email or text message. Scammers sometimes send fake emails that look like they are from the state and direct you to a fake login page designed to steal your information.

Do not share your password with anyone, including Department staff. The Department will never ask for your password by phone, email, or text. If someone claiming to be from the state asks for your password, hang up or delete the message and call 877-626-6800 to report it.

Log out when you are done, especially if you are using a shared computer. The logout button is in the upper right corner of the portal. If you are on a public computer (like at a library), close the browser entirely after you log out.

When you cannot log in and need help when ready

If your claim status is urgent and you cannot log in, you can call the Department of Unemployment information at 877-626-6800. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern time. Wait times are typically 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the day and time of day.

You can also request a callback instead of waiting on hold. When you call, select the option to leave your number, and a representative will call you back within 24 hours during business hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I created an account but never used it and now I cannot remember my password?

Click "Forgot Password" on the login page and follow the reset process. If you do not receive the reset email within 10 minutes, check your spam folder. If you still cannot reset it, call 877-626-6800 and they will help you regain access.

Can I log in on my phone?

Yes, the MassLaborOnline portal works on mobile browsers. However, some features like uploading documents work better on a desktop or laptop. If you need to upload a file, use a computer if possible.

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

Yes, you must log in and file a weekly claim each week you want to receive benefits. The system opens claims for filing on Sunday evening and closes them on Friday at midnight. File as early in the week as possible in case you run into technical problems.

What should I do if the system says I have an outstanding issue on my claim?

Log in and check your messages — the Department will have posted details about what they need from you. This might be a document upload, a phone interview, or answers to questions about your work history. Follow the instructions in the message and respond within the important date given, or your benefits may be delayed.

Is there a way to file my weekly claim without logging in?

No, you must use the MassLaborOnline portal to file. The state does not offer phone filing or paper filing for weekly claims. If you cannot access the internet, call 877-626-6800 and ask about alternative arrangements.