Where Minnesota's Unemployment Office Is Located and How to Contact It

Minnesota's unemployment insurance program is run by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), not a single physical office. You contact DEED through their online portal, phone line, or by visiting one of their workforce centers across the state. The main phone number for unemployment questions is 1-866-613-6237, available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time.

If you prefer to visit in person, DEED operates WorkForce Centers in most Minnesota counties. These centers handle unemployment claims, job search resources, and benefits questions. You can find the center nearest you by searching the DEED website or calling the main line. Walk-in hours vary by location, so calling ahead is wise—some centers require appointments during certain times of year.

The fastest way to file a claim or check your claim status is through uimn.org, Minnesota's online unemployment portal. You can file, upload documents, view payment history, and answer weekly work search questions without calling. The portal is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Key Takeaways

  • Minnesota's unemployment program is administered by DEED, and you can reach them by phone at 1-866-613-6237, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or online at uimn.org.
  • WorkForce Centers are located throughout Minnesota counties and offer in-person help with claims, but hours and appointment policies vary by location.
  • Filing and managing your claim online through uimn.org is available 24/7 and is usually faster than calling or visiting in person.
  • You will need your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, and information about your recent employment to file a claim.
  • Minnesota requires you to report your work search activities weekly once your claim is approved, which you can do online.

What Happens When You File a Claim in Minnesota

When you file an unemployment claim in Minnesota, DEED reviews your work history, the reason you are no longer employed, and whether you meet the program's requirements. The process begins the moment you submit your claim—either online or by phone—and that date becomes your claim effective date. Benefits are calculated based on your earnings in the past 12 months, not on how long you have worked.

After you file, DEED sends you a notice that lists your weekly benefit amount and the total amount you may receive during your benefit year. This notice also tells you when you must start reporting your weekly work search activities. Most people receive this notice within one to two weeks, though it can take longer if DEED needs to contact your former employer for wage verification.

If your claim is denied, you will receive a written explanation and instructions on how to request a hearing. Common reasons for denial include being fired for misconduct, quitting without good cause, or not meeting Minnesota's earnings requirement. You have the right to appeal within 30 days of the denial notice.

Weekly Work Search Requirements and Reporting

Once your claim is approved, Minnesota requires you to report your work search activities every week to continue receiving benefits. You must search for work, explore for jobs, or participate in approved training activities. The state does not require a specific number of applications per week, but you must be able to document what you did to look for work.

You report your work search activities through uimn.org by answering a short questionnaire each week. The questions ask what you did to look for work—such as explore online, attending interviews, contacting employers, or participating in job training. You answer these questions during the week you are claiming benefits for, and the important date is usually Sunday at midnight.

If you miss a weekly report, your benefits may be delayed or stopped. If you cannot work that week due to illness, vacation, or other reasons, you should still file your weekly report and explain why you were not able to search for work. DEED may approve a temporary waiver, but you must report it.

Documents You Will Need to File

Before you file a claim, gather your Social Security number, your Minnesota driver's license or state ID number, and information about your most recent job. You will need your employer's name, address, phone number, and the dates you worked there. If you were laid off, have a separation notice or letter if you have one. If you quit or were fired, be ready to explain why.

If you are self-employed or have income from multiple sources, you will need to report all of it. DEED may ask for tax returns or business records to verify your earnings. If you receive severance pay, pension income, or vacation payout from your employer, report that too—it may affect your weekly benefit amount.

Once your claim is filed, DEED may contact your former employer to verify your wages and the reason you left. If there is a dispute about why you are no longer employed, you may be asked to provide additional information or attend a hearing. Keep copies of any documents you submit, including separation notices, emails, or written explanations.

How Long Benefits Last and What the Payment Schedule Looks Like

In Minnesota, the maximum number of weeks you can receive unemployment benefits is 26 weeks in a benefit year. Your weekly benefit amount is based on your earnings in the past 12 months and is calculated using a formula set by state law. The maximum weekly benefit amount changes each year; you will see your specific amount in the notice DEED sends after your claim is approved.

Payments are made by direct deposit to your bank account or, if you do not have a bank account, to a debit card issued by the state. Payments are usually deposited within three to five business days after you file your weekly report. If you file your report on Wednesday, for example, the payment typically arrives by the following Tuesday.

If you return to work part-time while receiving benefits, you can report your earnings and continue to receive a reduced benefit. Minnesota allows you to earn up to a certain amount before your benefit is reduced dollar-for-dollar. Report all earnings, including tips and bonuses, on your weekly report.

What to Do If Your Claim Is Delayed or Denied

If you file a claim and do not hear back within two weeks, call 1-866-613-6237 to check the status. DEED may be waiting for information from your employer or may need you to clarify something on your process. If your claim is delayed because of a wage verification issue, you can ask DEED to contact your employer on your behalf.

If your claim is denied, the denial notice will explain the reason and tell you how to request a hearing. You have 30 days from the date of the notice to file an appeal. The hearing is conducted by a state hearing officer, and you can present evidence and testimony about why you should receive benefits. You can represent yourself or bring someone to help you, including a lawyer.

Common reasons for denial include being disqualified for leaving work without good cause, being fired for misconduct, or not meeting the earnings requirement. If you were fired, DEED will ask your employer what happened. If you quit, you will need to explain why. If the reason was related to health, safety, or working conditions, you may have grounds to appeal.

WorkForce Centers and In-Person Services

Minnesota's WorkForce Centers offer more than just unemployment help. They provide job search information, resume writing, interview coaching, and connections to training programs. Some centers have computers you can use to search for jobs or file your claim if you do not have internet at home. Staff can also help you understand your claim status or troubleshoot problems with your online account.

To find the WorkForce Center in your county, visit the DEED website or call 1-866-613-6237. Hours vary widely—some centers are open Monday through Friday during business hours, while others have extended evening or Saturday hours. Many centers now require appointments, especially during busy periods, so call ahead before you visit.

If you are having trouble filing online or need help understanding your claim, visiting a WorkForce Center can save you time. Staff can walk you through the process step by step and answer questions about work search requirements or benefit calculations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my first payment after I file?

It typically takes one to two weeks from the date you file your claim to receive your first payment, assuming your claim is approved without delay. If DEED needs to verify information with your employer, it may take longer. Once approved, payments are deposited within three to five business days after you file your weekly report.

Can I work part-time and still receive unemployment benefits?

Yes. Minnesota allows you to work part-time and receive reduced benefits based on your earnings. You must report all income, including wages, tips, and bonuses, on your weekly report. Your benefit is reduced by a portion of what you earn, but you may still receive some payment.

What happens if I miss a weekly work search report?

If you miss a weekly report, your benefits may be delayed or stopped. You have until the important date—usually Sunday at midnight—to file your report for that week. If you cannot work that week, you should still file and explain why. Contact DEED if you miss a important date to see if you can file a late report.

Can I appeal a denial of my unemployment claim?

Yes. You have 30 days from the date of the denial notice to request a hearing. The hearing is conducted by a state hearing officer, and you can present evidence and explain why you should receive benefits. You can represent yourself or bring someone to help you.

What if I was fired from my job—can I still get unemployment?

It depends on why you were fired. If you were fired for misconduct—such as breaking a rule, being late repeatedly, or violating company policy—you may be disqualified. If you were fired for reasons beyond your control or for poor performance without prior warning, you may be found to have good cause. DEED will contact your employer to find out what happened.