How to file for unemployment in West Virginia

The online claim is usually the fastest way. Here is what to have ready, when your claim starts and what comes after you file.

All about unemployment in West Virginia

Checked against official sources: October 31, 2026.

Filing, step by step

File online (fastest, available 24 hours a day), call 1-800-252-JOBS (5627) Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., or visit a WorkForce WV local office. Job service registration is part of the online application.

When to file and when your claim starts

File as soon as you lose your job or your hours are cut. A reopened claim is effective the Sunday of the week you reopen it.

What to have ready

  • Your Social Security number
  • Your contact information and email address
  • Your work history for the last 12 to 18 months and the reason you are no longer working
  • Your bank routing and account number if you want direct deposit

Certify (claim your weeks)

How often: Weekly. File a weekly claim certification online for each week you are totally or partially unemployed, between Sunday and 5 p.m. Friday of the week right after the week you claim. Report all gross earnings for the Sunday-to-Saturday week. If you miss a week, call 1-800-252-JOBS or go to a local office to ask that the missed week be considered.

Your first payment

Your first payable week is an unpaid waiting week. You choose direct deposit or a debit card; if your claim has a possible disqualifying issue, your first payment may come by check.

Register for work

You must register with job services within 6 weeks of filing; registration is a mandatory part of the online application. Union hiring hall members and some others are told if they are exempt.

WorkForce WV job services (state labor exchange)

Law: W. Va. Code secs. 21A-6-1(1)-(3), 21A-6-1d

Official source: Source page

What applies in every state

  • File with the unemployment program of the state where you worked. If you worked in another state or in several states, the agency in the state where you live now can tell you how to file with other states.
  • It generally takes two to three weeks after you file to get your first payment. Some states require a one-week waiting period, so the second week you claim is the first week paid.

Free help

Call 1-800-252-5627. Legal aid and other free help in West Virginia → Official sources →

More questions about unemployment in West Virginia

Is there a waiting week in West Virginia?

Yes. The first payable week of your claim is an unpaid waiting week. You must file a weekly certification and meet all requirements for it.