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Reviewed October 1, 2026

Unemployment Insurance (GDOL)

Georgia unemployment claims can be filed through the MyUI Claimant Portal or a GDOL career center. After applying, weekly benefit certification and work-search reporting remain separate tasks.

Who can apply

GDOL reviews qualifying work history, the circumstances of job loss or reduced hours and continuing availability for work. A person working reduced hours may be considered; the agency determines the claim.

What help is available

Unemployment insurance provides temporary income for approved claimants. A payment requires the ongoing eligibility and certification process, not just an initial application.

Documents to prepare

  • Social Security number and government-issued photo identification.
  • Employment dates and employer contact details for the past 18 months.
  • An available separation notice; applicable military, federal-employment or work-authorization records.
  • Banking details if choosing direct deposit.

How to get started

  1. File or reopen the claim

    Start from GDOL’s regular UI page and follow the MyUI link, or request help at a career center.

  2. Answer review questions

    Keep confirmations and respond to identity, wage or separation questions.

  3. Complete weekly tasks

    Follow the handbook’s benefit-certification and work-search instructions. Submitting a search record is not the same as certifying for payment.

After applying

Check MyUI messages and report earnings accurately when claiming a week. Read the decision for review or appeal instructions if wages or eligibility are disputed.

Website screenshots

These images show the pages captured in August 2026. Website screens and rules may have changed.

The Georgia Department of Labor page with the MyUI Claimant Portal.
August 2026 reference screenshot.

Common questions

Can reduced hours qualify?

GDOL lists reduced-hours circumstances as a possible claim route; eligibility still must be assessed.

Can I file without a personal computer?

GDOL career centers offer filing assistance and resource computers.

Does a work-search record request my payment?

No. The current claimant handbook describes work-search reporting and weekly certification as separate processes.

Sources and review

Checked October 1, 2026 using GDOL regular UI eligibility and filing, UI claimant handbook, Claim options. USA Assistance background guide. Program staff determine eligibility and available assistance.

Historical screenshots: source reference.