This page includes answers to many of the questions we are most frequently asked. If your question is not answered here, try using the search function at the top of this page, or ask our Virtual Assistant on the Unemployment Insurance home page. You can also call our customer service line 24 hours a day at 303-318-9000 or 1-800-388-5515 if you are located outside the Denver metro area.
En Espanol:
Denver Metro: 303-318-9333 / Toll-Free: 1-866-422-0402
Generally speaking, if you are unemployed or are working fewer than 32 hours a week and earning less than the weekly amount that unemployment benefits pay, you can file a claim for unemployment benefits. Please visit our Eligibility page for more information.
How do I file a claim for unemployment benefits?
To file a claim for unemployment benefits, reopen a claim, or file for additional benefits, please visit our File a Claim page.
How much does unemployment pay?
Unemployment benefits are approximately 55 percent of a person's average weekly wage over a 12-month time period. The maximum benefit amount available is $809 per week. Use the Unemployment Insurance Benefits Estimator tool to estimate your potential benefits.
Are tips included in the calculation of my wages for unemployment benefits?
Tips are considered wages and should be included in your wages reported by your employer. When you file a claim, we will send you a notice that details your reported wages. Review the information carefully and follow the instructions if it is incorrect. Report your rate of pay including your hourly rate plus average tips. You can calculate that hourly, daily, or weekly, whichever makes the most sense based on your job.
Can I collect unemployment benefits while working part time?
You may be eligible to collect partial benefits if you are working fewer than 32 hours per week. However, you must continue to look for work and meet your eligibility requirements. When you work, we can pay part of your weekly benefits, but you must have earned less than the weekly benefit amount. The law states that you can earn up to 50 percent of your weekly benefit amount and still be paid your full benefit payment. After that, we must reduce your benefit payment by one dollar for each dollar you earn. Visit the Working and Collecting page for more information.
Are you a Colorado election judge currently receiving unemployment insurance?
Serving as an election judge in Colorado is a paid position, so wages earned as an election judge could impact either your eligibility for unemployment insurance benefit or the amount of your benefit payment. As each individual's circumstances are different and wages for election judges are determined by counties, it is important you understand how any income earned as an election judge could impact your eligibility for unemployment benefits.
What is the law?
Recent Colorado legislation determined that the wages earned as a Colorado election judge are reportable based on a benchmark set by federal law. Therefore, according to federal Unemployment Compensation law, Colorado election judges may earn up to $1000 in a calendar year before their unemployment benefit is impacted.
What does that mean for me?
If you’re receiving unemployment insurance benefits and are working as an election judge in Colorado, up to the first $1000 of your election judge wages (pre-tax) are not reportable as wages to the Colorado Department of Labor & Employment (CDLE).
What do I need to do?
Keep track of all the income you receive while working as an election judge. Upon requesting payment via your MyUI+ account, DO NOT report to CDLE the first $999 that you earn in this position; ONLY report the income to CDLE after you have made $1000 or more. CDLE will then determine how it will affect your weekly benefit payment. Please note, you must report your election judge employment separation once the election is concluded. If the separation is not reported, this could cause an issue with your benefit payment.
How do I report my wages?
Visit the Working and Collecting page for learn more about calculating wages.
What resources will help me find additional employment?
Make sure you are registered with a Colorado Workforce Center. Workforce Centers provide free access to computer resources, career counseling, resume writing, interview skills building, job-search strategies, training opportunities, and potential job connections. Visit the Workforce Centers page for more information.
The CDLE website offers resources, services, and programs to assist you in your career search and development.