What the 667 Number Does

The phone number 667-207-6520 is the main line for the Maryland Department of Labor's Unemployment Insurance division. When you call this number, you reach staff who handle questions about filing for benefits, checking the status of a claim, reporting work search activities, and resolving issues with your account.

This is a state-run office, not a private call center. The people who answer work directly for Maryland's unemployment system and can access your file while you are on the phone. They can also direct you to forms, explain what documents you need, and tell you whether your situation meets the program's requirements.

The 667 area code covers much of central Maryland, including Baltimore and surrounding counties, but the number works from anywhere in the state and from out of state.

Key Takeaways

  • Call 667-207-6520 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern time) to speak with a Maryland unemployment staff member who can access your account.
  • Have your Social Security number, driver's license or ID number, and any claim number ready before you call, as staff will ask for these to pull up your file.
  • If you cannot reach someone by phone, you can also file and manage your claim through the Maryland Department of Labor website at mdes.maryland.gov.
  • Wait times are often longest on Mondays and Tuesdays; calling Wednesday through Friday typically means shorter holds.

When to Call and What to Expect

The Maryland Department of Labor answers calls Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern time. The office is closed on state holidays. Expect to wait on hold, especially early in the week. If you reach an automated system first, listen for the option that matches your question — for example, "Press 1 for filing a new claim" or "Press 2 for claim status."

When a staff member picks up, they will ask for your Social Security number and either your driver's license number or claim number to locate your file. Have this information ready. The call may take 10 to 20 minutes depending on how complex your situation is.

If you reach voicemail or the line is full, you can call back later the same day or try the next business day. The office does not return voicemails, so calling back is your only option.

What Information to Have Ready

Before you dial, gather these documents and details:

  • Your Social Security number
  • Your Maryland driver's license number or state ID number
  • Your claim number (if you have already filed)
  • The name and address of your most recent employer
  • Your last date of work
  • The reason you left the job or were let go

If you are calling about a specific issue — such as a payment that did not arrive, a wage record that looks wrong, or a disqualification notice — have that document in front of you. Staff can explain what it means and what your next step should be.

Common Reasons to Call

Filing a new claim: You can file online at mdes.maryland.gov, but if you run into technical problems or have questions about what to report, staff can walk you through it over the phone.

Checking claim status: If you filed and want to know whether your claim was processed, whether you are receiving payments, or when your next payment is due, call to have staff look up your account.

Reporting work search activities: Some claims require you to report that you searched for work each week. Staff can tell you whether your claim has this requirement and how to report.

Resolving a notice or denial: If you received a letter saying your claim was denied, you were disqualified, or you owe money back, call to understand why and what you can do about it.

Updating your information: If you moved, changed your phone number, or need to update your banking details for direct deposit, staff can help you make those changes.

If You Cannot Reach Anyone by Phone

The Maryland Department of Labor website at mdes.maryland.gov lets you file a claim, check your claim status, and manage your account without calling. You can also upload documents and view payment history there. Many issues can be resolved faster online than by phone.

If you need to speak with someone and cannot reach the phone line, you can also visit a Maryland Department of Labor office in person. Locations are listed on the website. Some offices take walk-ins; others require an appointment.

You can also file an appeal if you disagree with a decision about your claim. Appeals are handled through a separate process and have their own important date, so if you receive a denial notice, read it carefully for the appeal important date and instructions.

What the Phone Line Cannot Do

The 667 number connects you to the Unemployment Insurance division, which handles regular jobless benefits. If you are looking for information about other Maryland Department of Labor programs — such as workforce training, job placement services, or disability benefits — you may need a different number or office.

The unemployment line also cannot process payments or reverse a payment that was made to you by mistake. If you received an overpayment notice, staff can explain what happened and what your options are, but the actual resolution may require paperwork or a formal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time of day has the shortest wait?

Wednesday through Friday generally have shorter waits than Monday and Tuesday. Calling between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. is often faster than calling first thing in the morning or near the end of the business day.

Can I file a claim by phone instead of online?

You can ask staff for help filing over the phone, but the Maryland system is designed for online filing. Staff may guide you through the website while you are on the call, or they may mail you a paper form if you cannot use the internet.

What if I do not have my claim number yet?

Give the staff member your Social Security number and driver's license number instead. They can pull up your file and assign you a claim number during the call, or tell you if no claim exists under your name.

Is there a number for appeals?

Appeals are handled by the Maryland Department of Labor's Board of Appeals, which is separate from the main unemployment line. If you receive a denial notice, it will include the appeals phone number and important date. Call that number, not the 667 line, to file an appeal.

Can I reach someone outside business hours?

The 667 line does not have after-hours support. You can file and check your claim status on the website at mdes.maryland.gov any time, day or night. If you need to speak with staff, you must call during business hours Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern time.