Massachusetts Unemployment FAQs

Unemployment can be confusing at the best of times, and in the wake of the pandemic there are still delays in processing at the Department of Unemployment Assistance ("DUA").  Though there is not much you can do to control how quickly the DUA acts, it is helpful to understand the basic rules of unemployment in Massachusetts.  Below are some frequently asked questions, with links to the answers, about unemployment in Massachusetts.

Eligibility for Traditional Unemployment

Who is eligible to collect traditional unemployment?
​If I was fired for cause, can I collect unemployment?
If I quit, can I collect unemployment?
If my employer changes my hours or responsibilities, can I quit and collect unemployment?
If I need to stop working for health reasons, can I collect unemployment?

Pandemic Unemployment

Who is eligible to collect pandemic unemployment?
What are my rights if I get an overpayment notice?
How do I request a waiver of overpayment?

Applying for Unemployment

When should I apply for unemployment?
​Does severance pay affect my unemployment benefits

Unemployment Appeals

How do I appeal an unemployment denial?
Do I need to keep certifying while my appeal is pending?
What happens at an unemployment appeal hearing?
What can I do if my appeal is denied?
If I win my appeal, what am I owed?

Need Help With an Unemployment Issue?

Call (781) 784-2322

OR

Schedule a Free Information Call

How We Can Help

If you have an appeal hearing pending, or need to appeal a denial at the hearing or denial from the Board of Review, we can help.  You can use the button below to schedule a call back from a member of our team, or give us a call at  781-784-2322.

Schedule a Free Information Call