Where the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment information is Located

The Massachusetts Department of Unemployment information (DUA) is the state agency that handles unemployment insurance claims. The main Boston office is at 19 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114. This is where you can go in person if you need to speak with someone face-to-face about your claim or have documents to submit.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though hours can change seasonally. Before you travel there, call ahead to confirm current hours and to ask whether you need an appointment. Many services are now handled by phone or online, so an in-person visit may not be necessary for your situation.

Parking is available in the area, though it is street parking and can be competitive during business hours. The office is accessible by the Red Line (Park Street station) and the Green Line (Park Street or Government Center stations).

Key Takeaways

  • The main Boston office is at 19 Staniford Street and is open weekdays 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but you should call first to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment.
  • Most unemployment insurance questions and claim updates are handled faster by phone at 1-877-626-6800 or through the online portal at mass.gov/unemployment than by visiting in person.
  • If you are filing a new claim, you must do so online or by phone within the same week you become unemployed to protect your benefit start date.
  • Bring your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, and any separation documents from your employer when you visit or call.

How to Contact DUA by Phone

The main phone line for the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment information is 1-877-626-6800. This is a toll-free number that handles new claims, claim status questions, payment issues, and general information. Call times are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Wait times are often long, especially early in the week and early in the morning. If you can call mid-week or mid-afternoon, you may reach someone faster. Have your Social Security number ready when you call. If you know your claim number, have that too — it speeds up the process.

If you are calling about a specific issue like a disqualification notice or a payment that did not arrive, have that document in front of you. The representative will ask you to read details from it to pull up your account.

Filing a Claim Online or by Phone

New unemployment insurance claims must be filed within the same week you become unemployed. You can file online at mass.gov/unemployment or by calling 1-877-626-6800. Filing online is usually faster and you get an when ready confirmation number.

To file online, you will need your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID number, and information about your most recent employer (name, address, phone number, and the dates you worked there). You will also need to know the reason you are no longer employed — whether you were laid off, quit, or were fired.

After you file, you will receive a notice in the mail with your claim number and your benefit amount. This notice also tells you when your first payment is due. Keep this notice; you will need the claim number for future calls or online updates.

What to Bring If You Visit in Person

If you go to the Boston office at 19 Staniford Street, bring your Social Security number and a photo ID (driver's license or state ID). You should also bring any documents related to your claim, such as a separation letter from your employer, a layoff notice, or a termination letter.

If you are appealing a disqualification or a denied claim, bring the notice you received from DUA. If you have questions about a specific payment or a hold on your account, bring any correspondence you have received about that issue.

Bring a pen and paper to write down any reference numbers or next steps the representative gives you. Ask for a business card or the name and direct extension of the person you speak with, so you can follow up if needed.

Online Account Management and Claim Status

You can check your claim status, view payment history, and update your information online at mass.gov/unemployment without calling. Log in with your Social Security number and the PIN you created when you filed your claim. If you forgot your PIN, you can reset it on the login page.

The online portal shows whether your claim is active, pending, or disqualified. It also shows the date and amount of each payment sent to you. If a payment is missing or delayed, the portal usually explains why — for example, if you have not yet certified for that week or if there is a hold pending verification.

You can also certify for weekly benefits online if your claim is active. Certification must be done by the important date shown in your account, usually by Sunday night for the week you are claiming.

What Happens After You File

After you file a claim, DUA will contact your employer to verify the reason for your separation. This usually takes one to two weeks. Your employer has a chance to respond and may dispute your claim if they say you were fired for misconduct or quit without good reason.

If there is a dispute, DUA will send you a notice and may schedule a phone hearing. You will have a chance to explain your side. If DUA finds in your favor, payments begin. If they find against you, you can appeal the decision.

If there is no dispute, your first payment usually arrives within two to three weeks of filing. Payments are sent by debit card (the ConnectorCard) or direct deposit, depending on how you set up your account. Check your mail for the debit card if you did not choose direct deposit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a claim by mail instead of online or phone?

No. Massachusetts requires all new unemployment claims to be filed online at mass.gov/unemployment or by phone at 1-877-626-6800. Mail is not accepted for new claims. If you have trouble with the online system, call the phone line and a representative can help you file over the phone.

What if I cannot reach anyone by phone?

Try calling early in the week (Tuesday or Wednesday) or mid-afternoon. If the line is full, you can leave a callback request on the automated system, and DUA will call you back within one business day. You can also visit the Boston office in person, though wait times there can also be long during peak periods.

How long does it take to get my first payment?

If your claim is approved with no disputes, your first payment usually arrives within two to three weeks. If your employer disputes your claim, it may take longer while DUA investigates. You can check the status of your claim online or by calling 1-877-626-6800.

What if I was fired or quit — can I still get benefits?

It depends on the reason. If you were fired for misconduct, you may be disqualified. If you quit, you must have had good cause — such as unsafe working conditions or a significant cut in pay. File your claim anyway and explain your situation. DUA will investigate, and you can appeal if they deny you.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Boston office?

Call 1-877-626-6800 or check mass.gov/unemployment to find out whether appointments are required. During high-volume periods, the office may require appointments. Even if walk-ins are allowed, calling ahead to confirm hours and current procedures saves you a trip.