Unemployment Insurance Guidance and Resources for Laid Off Federal Employees

July 16, 2025

For Immediate Release: July 16, 2025

Unemployment Insurance Guidance and Resources for Laid Off Federal Employees

MAINE - The Maine Department of Labor is re-sharing unemployment insurance guidance and resources for any possible federal employees affected by layoffs.

Topline information includes:

• Prepare-Get as much information as you can
• Print your paystubs last one paid before 03/31/2025 and last one paid before 06/30/2025
• Print your 2024 W-2

Before filing your claim, read through the unemployment FAQ for federal workers.

• File Immediately, even without all documents
• Call 1-800-593-7660 to file your claim in Maine as soon as you separate from your employer. Documents will be collected for verification once your claim is started.
• You must start your first unemployment insurance claim by phone. After your first claim is done, you can file weekly claims online.
• File even if appealing the termination
• Don't panic about a $0 determination Federal wages aren't reported in state systems, so your initial claim may show $0. As wages are verified your Monetary Determination will be updated.
• Request a wage affidavit if delayed If your agency doesn't respond within 12 days, you can complete an ES-935 affidavit to speed up your claim.
• Once your initial claim is in system, you will find this form in your account under Correspondences.
• Check messages regularly State agencies may request additional information, so frequently check your portal, email, and mail.
• Certify and job search weekly You must certify unemployment and actively search for work each week to continue receiving benefits.

The Maine Department of Labors Rapid Response team holds a weekly session via Zoom at 10 a.m. every Wednesday to go over top line information for laid off workers, such as unemployment insurance, health insurance options, training and job search resources.

On Thursdays from 10-11 a.m., there are also weekly virtual office hours on applying to state jobs. Topics include the application process in state government, career paths and opportunities, and tips for improving your job search.

The full guidance and Rapid Response information for affected employees can be found here: https://www.maine.gov/labor/federalworkers/