Filing an Unemployment Claim – Tennessee

Please select a topic below:

1. Am I eligible to receive benefits?

You must be unemployed through no fault of your own, and you must have made sufficient wages in your base period. Also, you must be able and available for full-time work.

2. How do I apply for benefits in Tennessee?

Visit the Tennessee website for information on how to apply for unemployment benefits.

3. How much will I receive?

Your benefit amount is base on your base period. See the Tennessee website for more information on how to calculate your benefit amount.

4. How long will I receive these benefits?

You may receive benefits for up to 26 weeks, depending on the total wages earned in the base period.

5. After I start receiving benefits, what do I have to do to remain eligible?

You must file weekly claims online, be able to work, and be available for work. Also, you must continue to be able and available for full-time work. You must actively seek employment, while keeping a record of your work search activities. You must contact at least three employers per week. Finally, you must accept suitable work.

6. I was turned down for benefits. How do I appeal this decision?

You must appeal in writing within 15 days of the date of the decision for denial. Your appeal may be filed by mail, by fax, or online. Also, you must keep filing your weekly claims regularly because you will only be paid for weeks you filed if you win your appeal.

7. For more information on Tennessee’s unemployment insurance laws:

Visit the State of Tennessee Website

Read the Claimant Handbook