Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for unemployment benefits in Alaska, you need to meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Your employer must fall under unemployment insurance laws.
• You need to have earned a total gross income of at least $2,500 over two calendar quarters in your base period.

Also, you must:

• Be unemployed through no fault of your own
• Actively look for full-time employment
• Report your weekly work search efforts, activities, and any earnings
• Be physically capable and ready for full-time work
• Be ready to work in case you get a job offer
• Be open to suitable full-time work that matches your experience and training
• Register for work as directed by the state workforce agency
• Attend any requested meetings, such as RESEA

Meeting work requirements is a key part of maintaining your eligibility for unemployment benefits in Alaska. This involves registering with the state workforce agency and applying for jobs each week. Failing to register for work as directed could disqualify you from receiving benefits.

Participation in the Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) program might also be a requirement for some individuals. The RESEA program includes a series of workshops, one-on-one counseling sessions, and even skills assessments that can identify your strengths and areas for improvement. If requested, participation is mandatory.

Unemployment Application Instructions

Sign up for unemployment benefits as soon as you lose your job or start working less than full-time. You won't get weekly benefits for any past weeks you were unemployed.

In Alaska, there are two ways to apply for unemployment: By phone, or online.

Apply by Phone

It is recommended to apply for benefits online since it's easier and faster. However, if you lack internet access, you can call the toll-free number of the claims office to get help with starting a claim.

Phone: 888-252-2557. Specialists at the claim center answer calls from 10 am to 3 pm, Monday to Friday.

Apply Online

To apply online, set up a myAlaska account and submit your application online. The online service is open 24/7.

Begin by logging into my.alaska.gov. Click on “My Services,” then select “Unemployment Insurance Benefits.” If you run into trouble, call the claim center at 888-252-2557 weekdays between 10 am and 3 pm.

After you log in to myAlaska, go to Unemployment Insurance Benefits. On the Client Authentication screen, input your complete Social Security Number, your first and last name, and your birth date.

Once verified, click on "File a new claim." You'll need to answer questions to provide initial claim data. This involves confirming your past work and reporting your income. You must also answer a series of questions to check if you meet Alaska eligibility requirements.

If you prefer talking to someone, call the claim center between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Have the following information ready before you apply:

• Wages and hours from your final work week
• Copy 4 of your DD214 if you served in the military within the last 18 months
• SF8 or SF50 forms if you were a federal employee in the past 18 months
• Alien registration, work permit type, and passport details if you're not a U.S. citizen
• Last week's total earnings from holiday, vacation, severance, or bonus
• Information about current retirement payments, if applicable
• Employment dates with your most recent employer
• Contact details and name of your last employer
• Social Security Number

After you start your unemployment claim, you need to file claims every two weeks. You can file online or through the automated phone system by calling 888-222-9989.