Unemployment benefits provide temporary financial assistance to eligible individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. In Virginia, the unemployment benefits program is administered by the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC). To apply for unemployment benefits in Virginia, you must:
- Be unemployed through no fault of your own
- Have earned enough wages in the past 18 months
- Be able and available to work
- Be actively seeking work
You can apply for unemployment benefits online, by phone, or in person at a local VEC office. The application process takes about 15 minutes, and you will need to provide information about your work history, earnings, and job search activities. Once you have applied, the VEC will review your application and determine if you are eligible for benefits. If you are approved, you will receive a weekly benefit payment that is based on your past earnings.