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Reviewed October 1, 2026

Unemployment Insurance (Virginia)

Virginia unemployment insurance provides temporary support after qualifying unemployment. VEC reviews monetary, separation and weekly eligibility.

Who can apply

Wages, job-separation circumstances and continuing ability and availability for work affect entitlement. Follow applicable work-search instructions.

What help is available

Approved payments replace part of wages. The initial application does not replace weekly requests.

Documents to prepare

  • Identity and contact information.
  • Employer, work-date and wage records.
  • The reason work ended or hours changed.

How to get started

  1. File

    Use VEC claimant self-service through the state unemployment page.

  2. Respond to questions

    Complete identity checks and any separation or wage inquiry.

  3. Certify weekly

    File after the week ends and accurately report earnings and eligibility information.

After applying

Read all decisions and requests. VEC says to continue eligible weekly filing during an appeal.

Website screenshots

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

The VEC benefits information page with current weekly amounts.
August 2026 reference screenshot.
The VEC unemployed filing hub linking to Claimant Self-Service.
August 2026 reference screenshot.

Common questions

Does a wage determination settle everything?

Separation and weekly requirements must also be met.

When do I file a weekly request?

After that week is over, following VEC instructions.

Should I keep filing during an appeal?

VEC instructs claimants to continue weekly filing.

Can one application cover later weeks?

No. Weekly requests are required.

Sources and review

Content checked October 1, 2026 using VEC eligibility; VEC claimant responsibilities; VEC appeals. Current eligibility and the final decision remain with the program.

Historical screenshots: source reference.