The Idaho Department of Labor recognizes the impact of the coronavirus on employers and workers, and we are here to assist. We continue to offer services online and by phone. We will update this web page with resources and information for you as it becomes available.

Unemployment Insurance Claimants and Job Seekers

On March 12, 2021, Pres. Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. This act extended the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program, and the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program and contains a new federal income taxes provisions. Read the American Rescue Plan Act FAQs for other unemployment updates.

• Use the Idaho Claimant Portal to file for unemployment insurance benefits.
• Find claimant FAQs about unemployment insurance and COVID-19.
• Information on Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (temporary emergency increase of $300 per week)
• Information on Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (self-employed or gig workers)
• Information on Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (extension of benefits).
• To reach a Labor workforce consultant about our services, contact your nearest Labor office. See the office directory.

If you need assistance applying for unemployment insurance benefits, call the claims phone line at (208) 332-8942. When possible, we recommend you file for unemployment online using the Claimant Portal.

Employer Resources

• Find employer FAQs about unemployment insurance and COVID-19.
• CARES Act 2020 Unemployment Insurance Program Letter.
• Employer Notification to Employees of the Availability of Unemployment Compensation (English)
• Employer Notification to Employees of the Availability of Unemployment Compensation (Spanish)
• Families First Coronavirus Response Act Poster. (English)
• Families First Coronavirus Response Act Poster. (Spanish)
• Upcoming Small Business Development Center COVID-19 Trainings and Webinars
• Idaho Rebounds
• Idaho’s Coronavirus Response Web page for business
• Idaho Commerce - COVID-19 Information.
• Idaho Department of Commerce disaster support for small businesses
• U.S. Small Business Administration - Disaster Assistance in Response to the Coronavirus.
• Idaho Economic Development Association – COVID-19 Business Toolkit
• Small Business Development Center seeks information on what help is needed.
• US Internal Revenue Service Coronavirus Tax Relief
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers Responding to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
• U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission – What You Should Know About COVID-19 and the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act and Other EEO Laws
• U.S. Department of Labor – Coronavirus Resources – Links to many resources for employers and workers prepare for and respond to coronavirus in the workplace.
• COVID-19 Personal Finance Guide from ChamberofCommerce.org
• Business should use the Employer Portal to pay taxes, report wages and manage account information.
• SIDES E-Response - Receive and respond to benefit claims online.

Economic Impact

• Initial claims for unemployment insurance
• Articles and news releases