English
EspañolWhat is unemployment insurance?
Unemployment is weekly cash assistance that you might be able to receive if:
- you are recently out of work; or
- are working less than full-time; and
- meet other eligibility requirements.
Who can get unemployment insurance?
You may be able to get unemployment insurance if you:
- are not at fault for your unemployment;
- have earned a minimum amount in wages before becoming unemployed; and
- are willing and able to work and are looking for a job.1
1 D.C. Code § 51-109
Can I receive unemployment insurance if I have to leave my job or if I am fired because of domestic violence?
Under D.C. law, if you lose your job by being fired or for voluntary or involuntary resignation due to domestic violence against you or any of your immediate family members, you are still allowed to receive unemployment insurance payments.1
1 D.C. Code § 51-131(a)
Do I have to provide any evidence of domestic violence to receive unemployment insurance?
If you are filing for unemployment insurance because you lost your job due to domestic violence, you may have to provide one of the following:
- a police report or record;
- a governmental agency or court record, such as a court order, a Petition for a Civil Protection Order, or a record or report from Child and Family Services; or
- a written statement, which states that you looked for help for domestic violence from the service organization, signed by a:
- shelter official;
- social worker;
- counselor;
- therapist;
- attorney
- medical doctor; or
- a religious leader (cleric).1
1 D.C. Code § 51-132
Where can I file for unemployment insurance or find more information?
You can file for unemployment benefits through the Department of Employment Services and may consider reaching out to a lawyer if you are denied benefits.
You can also find Frequently Asked Questions about unemployment insurance through the Department of Employment Services.
