What you need to log into the Wisconsin unemployment system

Wisconsin's unemployment system is called UWD Connect, and you log in through a single portal that handles both initial claims and ongoing benefit management. You will need a username and password — not your Social Security number alone. If you do not have an account yet, you create one before you can log in.

The login page is at uwd.wi.gov. The state does not use a separate login for different types of claims; one account covers regular unemployment insurance, pandemic-related programs that may still be active, and wage records. You log in the same way whether you are filing a new claim, checking the status of a pending one, or viewing payment history.

You will need a valid email address to set up your account and to receive password reset links. Wisconsin also offers two-factor authentication (a code sent to your phone or email) as an optional security step, though it is not required to log in.

Key Takeaways

  • You create a UWD Connect account at uwd.wi.gov before you can log in, using an email address and a password you choose.
  • If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page to reset it by email — you do not call the state to reset it.
  • Two-factor authentication is available but optional; you can turn it on in your account settings after you log in for the first time.
  • Once logged in, you can file a new claim, check payment status, view your benefit year, and read documents like separation notices or wage records.

Creating your UWD Connect account for the first time

If you have never logged into Wisconsin unemployment before, you must create an account. Go to uwd.wi.gov and look for the button or link that says "Create Account" or "New User." You will be asked to enter an email address, create a password, and answer security questions. Wisconsin will send a confirmation email to the address you provide — check your inbox and spam folder, then click the link in that email to set up your account.

Your password must meet Wisconsin's requirements, which typically include a minimum length and a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Write down your password or use a password manager so you do not lose it. Once your account is confirmed, you can log in with that email and password.

If you created an account but never finished setting it up, or if you are not sure whether you have an account, try the "Forgot Password" option. If Wisconsin finds your email in the system, it will send you a reset link. If it does not find your email, you will need to create a new account.

Resetting a forgotten password

Click "Forgot Password" on the UWD Connect login page. Enter the email address you used when you created your account. Wisconsin will send a password reset link to that email — the link usually works for 24 hours. Click the link, create a new password, and then log in with your email and the new password.

If you do not receive the reset email within a few minutes, check your spam or junk folder. If the email never arrives, make sure you are using the correct email address. If you are still stuck, you can contact the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development by phone or through their website to verify your account information, though email-based password reset is the fastest route.

What to do if you cannot log in even after resetting your password

If you reset your password but still cannot log in, try these steps in order: clear your browser's cache and cookies, try a different web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge), and make sure you are using the correct email address — not a phone number or Social Security number.

If you see an error message that says your account is locked, it usually means you entered the wrong password too many times. Wait 15 to 30 minutes and try again. If the account remains locked or if you see a different error, contact the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. Have your Social Security number and email address ready when you call.

What you can do once you are logged in

After you log in, you can file a new unemployment claim if you have not done so yet, or you can manage an existing claim. The dashboard shows your current benefit year (the 52-week period during which you can draw benefits), your remaining balance, and your payment history. You can also view the status of any pending claims and see the date of your next required action, if one exists.

From your account, you can read documents that employers or other agencies may ask for, such as a separation notice, a wage record, or a proof of benefits letter. You can also update your contact information and set up two-factor authentication if you want extra security on your account.

Setting up two-factor authentication for added security

Two-factor authentication adds a second step to logging in: after you enter your password, Wisconsin sends a code to your phone or email, and you must enter that code to finish logging in. This protects your account if someone else learns your password.

To turn on two-factor authentication, log in to UWD Connect, go to your account settings or security settings, and follow the prompts to add a phone number or confirm your email. You will choose whether to receive codes by text message or email. Once it is set up, you will be asked for a code every time you log in from a new device or browser.

Contacting Wisconsin unemployment if you need help

The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development has a phone line for unemployment questions. The number and hours are listed on uwd.wi.gov. When you call, have your Social Security number, email address, and any claim number ready. Call times can be long, especially early in the week or after a holiday.

You can also look for a live chat option on the UWD Connect website or submit a message through the website's contact form. Response times for messages are usually longer than phone wait times, but you do not have to hold.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I log in on my phone or tablet?

Yes. UWD Connect works on mobile browsers. You can use the same email and password to log in from any device. The layout may look different on a small screen, but all the same functions are available.

What if I never received a confirmation email when I created my account?

Check your spam and junk folders first. If it is not there, wait a few minutes and try creating the account again with the same email address. If you still do not receive a confirmation, contact the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development — they can verify your account manually.

Do I need to log in every week to keep my benefits?

No. You do not log in to "certify" or "reopen" your claim each week the way some states require. However, you should log in regularly to check for messages from Wisconsin, to confirm your payment status, and to make sure the state has not asked you to provide additional information.

Can I use my Social Security number instead of a password to log in?

No. Wisconsin requires a username (your email address) and a password. You will need your Social Security number to create a claim or to verify your identity if you call, but it is not used as a login credential.

What if my email address has changed since I created my account?

Log in with your old email and password, then update your email address in your account settings. Wisconsin will send a confirmation to your new email address. After you confirm it, you can log in using the new email going forward.