Who can apply
IDES reviews work history and the reason employment ended, then checks continuing eligibility. Read the claim finding and next-step instructions; filing alone does not approve benefits.
What help is available
Eligible unemployment benefits provide temporary income. The agency’s July 2026 notice says payments use direct deposit or a debit card rather than paper checks.
Documents to prepare
- Identification and contact details.
- Employer, work-date and earnings information.
- Your ILogin credentials.
- Work-search and earnings records for ongoing certifications.
How to get started
Start through IDES
Use File an Unemployment Claim and review the preparation instructions.
Keep the account secure
Create or use the required ILogin account.
Certify as scheduled
Use the designated certification day and report work and earnings accurately.
After applying
Read Eligibility & Next Steps after filing. If you miss the designated day, the certification page lists Thursday and Friday make-up options.
Website screenshots
These images show the pages captured in August 2026. Website screens and rules may have changed.
Common questions
Can I certify by telephone?
IDES lists Tele-Serve at 312-338-4337 as an alternative certification route.
Is ILogin required?
Yes. The certification page says new and existing claimants need an ILogin account.
Can benefits still arrive by paper check?
The dated notice on the current IDES overview ends paper-check payments from July 8, 2026.
Do I report part-time earnings?
Yes. IDES warns that unreported part-time or odd-job earnings can affect benefits.
Sources and review
Reviewed October 1, 2026 using current payment notice, claim filing, certification options, claim eligibility and next steps. The administering organization decides eligibility.
Historical screenshots: source reference.