The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) is committed to guiding you through the unemployment process. We’ll help you understand the benefit requirements and navigate the system as you seek temporary assistance while looking for new employment. Our unemployment benefits program provides short-term aid to those who have lost their job through no fault of their own.
Benefits Roadmap
Common Issues
Common FAQs
How often do I need to certify weekly benefits?
You must file your weekly certification every 7 days until you return to work. If you do not complete your weekly claim within 20 days, your claim will be closed.
When will I get paid after filing an initial claim for benefits?
Claimants are generally paid within 21 days of filing for benefits. However, some claims may require additional time or review for eligibility.
How much in benefits do I get and for how long?
The amount of wages you earn will determine your Weekly Benefit Amount and the maximum number of weeks to which you will be entitled. You will be issued a Potential Benefit Entitlement that contains your base period wage information.
When do I file an initial claim for benefits?
You should file for unemployment insurance benefits within the same week you become unemployed. When filing an initial claim, you cannot back date the start date of the claim.
Further Assistance
For information on reasonable accommodations, please contact Brenda Henderson at Brenda.Henderson@vec.virginia.gov or by phone at (804) 718-5209.
Virginia Relay enables people who are deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf/Blind, or speech disabled to communicate by TTY (text telephone). Individuals who need this service can access the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711 or (800) 828-1140.
For information on language translation services, please contact Lorna Battles, Language Access Coordinator at Ma.Lorna.Battles@virginiaworks.gov, or by phone at (804) 584-9841 (VA Relay 711).
- VEC B-14 - Physician's Certificate of Health/Request for Medical Information
To be used when your medical condition was a factor in your separation from your employer. - VEC B-14A - Medical Professional Certificate of Health
To be used when your medical condition affects your weekly availability for work while receiving Unemployment Insurance benefits. - Claim Cancellation Form
To be used to cancel your claim if only Virginia wages were included and you meet the requirements for cancellation. - Combined Wage Claim Cancellation Form
To be used to cancel your claim if wages from multiple states were included and you meet the requirements for cancellation.