Minnesota (MN) Unemployment Insurance

Unemployment insurance provides a temporary partial wage replacement to workers who become unemployed through no fault of their own.

If you quit your job voluntarily, without good cause, or dismissed for misconduct, you won’t be eligible for unemployment benefits. 1

If you qualify, these benefits can provide basic living support for up to six months while you search for a job.

FAQ #


What qualifies you for unemployment in MN? #

In order to qualify for unemployment in MN, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  1. Have worked fewer than 32 hours a week.
  2. Have enough prior earnings from employment to establish a claim.
  3. Be unemployed through no fault of your own.
  4. Be ready and willing to immediately accept work.

As a condition of eligibility, you are required to actively seek suitable employment each week that you are collecting benefits.

How much do I get for unemployment in Minnesota? #

In Minnesota, the weekly benefit amount is about 50% of your average weekly wage — up to a maximum of $857.

How long does unemployment last in Minnesota? #

If you remain totally unemployed and otherwise remain eligible, you can get unemployment benefits for a maximum of 26 full weeks during a one-year period.

Can you get an extension on unemployment in MN? #

No. There are no extended benefit programs available at this time in Minnesota.

Can you collect unemployment in MN If you get fired? #

No, you will not be eligible for benefits if you were fired for misconduct, defined as intentional or negligent conduct.

However, you can still collect unemployment if you were terminated for the following reasons:

  1. Absence because of illness or injury with proper notice to the employer
  2. Inability to meet the employer’s performance standards
  3. Ordinary errors or accidents not due to carelessness or negligence
  4. Inefficiency
  5. Honest mistakes or omissions

How do I file for unemployment in MN? #

You can file for UI benefits either by phone or online using the Applicant Self-Service System, Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time.

To file your claim over the phone, call one of the following phone numbers:

Twin Cities Area
651-296-3644

Greater Minnesota
1-877-898-9090

After you file your initial claim, you will receive a notice of “Determination of Benefit Account” within 3 days detailing your potential weekly benefit amount.

How long does it take to get my first unemployment check? #

In Minnesota, there is a waiting period of up to three weeks before you receive your first unemployment check. The first week you are eligible for benefits is your nonpayable week.

And since benefits are paid for the prior week, you will not receive a payment for week two until week three.


If your application is denied, you have the legal right to appeal that decision within 20 days. Appeals can either be filed online by logging in to your account, by fax at (651) 205-4007, or by mail to

P.O. Box 4629, St. Paul
MN 55101-4629.

References

  1. If you lost your job due to a natural disaster, you may qualify for Disaster Unemployment Assistance.
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