Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) by Individuals
The frequently asked questions (FAQs) provided below highlight topics and specific questions that are often asked of IDES. If you have more specific questions, please contact us.
| Questions |
Answers |
| Where do I get my detailed benefit payment history? |
Statements are available online... |
| What information do I need to file an Unemployment Insurance claim online? |
You will need the following information when filing a UI claim... |
| Who is eligible for Unemployment Insurance? |
To be eligible for UI payments you must have lost your job through no fault of your own, have earned wages in insured employment, be available for new work, and be actively seeking new work ... |
| How can I find out how many weeks of benefits are left? |
There are two ways to obtain your benefit payment history... |
| What are the main differences between debit card and direct deposit for UI benefits? |
Both methods - direct deposit and debit card - are fast, convenient, safe, simple, and reliable... |
| How do I get or reset my username / password in IllinoisJobLink.com? |
From the IllinoisJobLink.com home page click on "forgot your password", type your username, hit continue and then answer the security question. If you successfully answer the security question, you will be prompted to enter a new password.
If you forgot your username or have not established a security question, call the Help Desk.
|
| What are the system requirements for using online UI services? |
Internet Explorer 8 is recommended with cookies enabled, PC with Windows or a Mac, and a recent version of Adobe Reader ... |
| How do I certify for UI benefits online? |
You will receive a "Finding" in the mail that will inform you when you should first certify for benefits. On the assigned date, go to the IDES website and select "File My Certification." from the drop-down menu in the upper right corner of the homepage... |
| What questions will I be asked when certifying for benefits? |
There are a number of questions asked during the certification process. You should review and prepare the answers before you certify to ensure quick, accurate certification. Your answers to the questions will determine your eligibility for benefits. Also, depending on the program from which you are receiving benefits, you may be asked additional questions... |
| What UI processes can be done online? |
File an unemployment claim, file unemployment certifications, sign up for, edit, or change direct deposit, and view payment history... |
| If my claim is denied, how do I appeal? |
An appeal hearing is a fact finding process to determine whether an individual is eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. The hearing is your opportunity to present your case to an IDES administrative law judge, called a Referee. The Referee, an attorney at law, will determine whether unemployment insurance benefits are payable. |
