Unemployment Illinois
Your guide to Illinois Unemployment Benefits Application Extension & Eligibility
In April 2010 the unemployment rate in Illinois hit 11.2 percent which is the highest unemployment rate in Illinois since 1993. The unemployment rate has since dropped to under 9% This means that most residents of IL know someone who has recently become unemployed or may be in need of Illinois unemployment benefits to pay debt and other bills. In order to apply for unemployment benefits in Illinois you must first become familiar with the rules and process to apply for unemployment benefits or to obtain an extension of your Illinois unemployment benefits. It is also helpful to know who is eligible for unemployment benefits so you do not waste you time in obtaining your benefits. This website will provide you with such information. To the right you'll find information on IL unemployment eligibility, the application process and useful tools like how to find an unemployment calculator, or obtain an extension of benefits. Unemployment benefits in Illinois are managed by IDES which stands for Illinois Department of Economic Security. This hard working branch of the IL government is who you will interact with as you navigate receiving Illinois unemployment benefits.
Many unemployment services are done online or in person at one of the many Illinois WorkForce offices. If you need to speak with someone at IDES you can call the Illinois unemployment phone number (800) 244-5631 or (312) 793-5280.