Protect Yourself

Unemployment Insurance Information

If you are looking to file unemployment as a direct result of COVID-19 (separated from employment, have had work hours reduced, or are prevented from working due to a medical condition caused by COVID-19 or due to communicable disease control measures), the fastest and most efficient way to file a new claim is to file online at des.nc.gov.  If you don’t have access to a computer, you may file over the phone by calling 888-737-0259.

Learn more about Applying for Unemployment.

Filing for Unemployment Due to COVID-19

Call North Carolina 2-1-1

 NC 2-1-1 is an information and referral service that families and individuals can call to obtain free and confidential information on health and human services resources within their community. NC 2-1-1 operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year and resources are available in most languages. Call 2-1-1.

Coping During COVID-19

 

NCWorks Career Center Information

While the NCWorks Career Centers throughout the High Country are currently closed to the public due to COVID-19, customers may still call the office to speak to a staff person regarding services/unemployment information. Center contact information can be found here.  You may also continue to access NCWorks Online at www.ncworks.gov.

Also, remember that NCWorks Career Centers are not actually “unemployment offices,” and we do not process Unemployment Insurance claims. We do help unemployed jobseekers to find new jobs. Currently, you do not need to visit NCWorks to file an unemployment insurance claim. To apply for unemployment benefits, visit www.des.nc.gov or call: 888-737-0259.

Additional information can be found here: https://des.nc.gov/need-help/covid-19-information.

Filing for Unemployment Due to COVID-19 Tip Sheet