The United States Department of Labor recently reported that initial claims for state unemployment benefits fell by 2, 000 to a seasonally adjusted number of 351,000. this was down from the prior weeks number of 353,000. This has been the lowest level since March of 2008. This comes from a decrease in new jobless claims from the previous month in February. Numbers may mean that fewer people are being laid off.  Efforts by state programs to target populations in need have help attributed to the decrease in numbers.

People who lose their jobs through no fault of their own find thenmselves with a loss of income. They still need to pay for their homes, feed their families, and meet their basic needs. Unemployment insurance is a benefit set up to help people meet their needs until they find new employment. It is a temporary measure that helps fill gaps until people can get back on their feet.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security requires all unemployed workers to certify their weekly benefits online or over the phone. Our previous article explained how you can access the online certification site or call Illinois’ Tele-Serve certification. This article will provide more detail on this important step so you don’ t miss out on your unemployment benefits.

Remember certifying your weekly benefits is key to receiving unemployment benefits so you want to make sure you do it right. We include below a list of the questions you will be asked when certifying your benefits. The same questions apply whether you claim online or by phone.

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