Minnesota Unemployment Phone Numbers and When to Use Them

Minnesota's unemployment program is run by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). The main phone line is 651-296-3711. This number connects you to general information about unemployment insurance, but wait times can be long during periods of high claims.

For faster service on specific topics, DEED operates separate phone lines. If you are calling about a claim you have already filed, use 651-296-3712. If you need help filing a new claim or have questions about your account, the same number handles both. Lines are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time.

Before calling, have your Social Security number, driver's license number, and information about your most recent employer ready. This speeds up the process and reduces the chance you will need to call back.

Key Takeaways

  • Call 651-296-3712 for questions about an existing claim or to file a new one; this is faster than the general number.
  • Phone lines are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time, and wait times are typically shorter early in the week.
  • Have your Social Security number, driver's license, and recent employer information ready before you call.
  • DEED also offers online filing through its website, which avoids phone wait times entirely.
  • If you cannot reach someone by phone, you can submit questions through the DEED website or visit a local workforce center in person.

What Information You Need Before Calling

Gathering the right documents before you dial saves time and prevents a second call. You will need your Social Security number, the dates you worked at your most recent job, your employer's name and address, and the reason your employment ended.

If you are calling about a claim already in progress, have your claim number ready. You can find this in any letter DEED sent you or by logging into your account on the DEED website. If you lost your job due to a layoff, have the layoff notice or final paycheck stub. If you quit or were fired, be prepared to explain the circumstances clearly.

If you are self-employed or worked multiple jobs, gather information about all of them. DEED calculates your benefit amount based on your earnings from the past year, so the more detail you provide, the more accurate the calculation will be.

Why Online Filing May Be Faster Than Calling

DEED's website allows you to file a claim without waiting on hold. Go to uimn.org and select "File a Claim" to start the process. The online form takes 15 to 20 minutes and asks the same questions a phone representative would ask.

Online filing also creates a record you can access anytime. After you submit, you receive a confirmation number and can log back in to check the status of your claim, update your information, or view your payment history. This is often faster than calling back to ask the same question.

If you run into trouble filling out the form online, you can still call 651-296-3712 for help. But many people find it easier to complete the form at their own pace, especially if they need time to gather documents.

What Happens After You Call or File Online

After you file, DEED reviews your claim within one to three business days. You will receive a letter in the mail confirming whether your claim was approved or if DEED needs more information from you. This letter also explains your weekly benefit amount — the maximum you can receive each week.

Once approved, you must file a weekly claim to receive payment. You can do this online at uimn.org or by phone. Weekly claims are due by midnight on Sunday for the week you are claiming. If you miss the important date, you lose that week's payment.

Payments are deposited into your bank account or sent to a debit card, depending on how you set it up. Most people receive their first payment within one to two weeks of approval.

Local Workforce Centers as an Alternative

If you prefer to speak with someone in person, Minnesota has workforce centers in most counties. These offices have staff who can help you file a claim, answer questions about your benefits, or troubleshoot problems with your account. You do not need an appointment at most locations.

To find the center nearest you, visit the DEED website and search for "workforce center" plus your city name. Hours vary by location, but most are open during standard business hours. Going in person can be helpful if you have a complicated situation — for example, if you worked in multiple states or are unsure whether you are may be able to access.

Common Reasons Calls Get Disconnected or Go Unanswered

Phone lines fill up quickly during the first week of each month and after major layoffs. If you cannot reach anyone, try calling early in the morning or on Tuesday or Wednesday rather than Monday or Friday. Calling before 10 a.m. usually means shorter waits.

If the line is busy, you have three options: call back later, file online at uimn.org, or visit a local workforce center. Hanging up and calling back when ready does not help — the system does not prioritize repeat callers, and you will straightforward wait in the queue again.

DEED does not offer callback services, so you cannot leave a message and have someone call you back. You must either reach someone during business hours or use the online system.

What to Do If You Have a Problem With Your Claim

If DEED denies your claim or reduces your benefit amount, you will receive a letter explaining why. This letter includes instructions for filing an appeal. You typically have 30 days from the date on the letter to appeal.

To appeal, call 651-296-3712 and ask to speak with someone about an appeal, or submit your appeal in writing to the address listed on your denial letter. An appeal hearing is usually held by phone within four to six weeks. You can represent yourself or bring a representative — a lawyer, union representative, or anyone else you choose.

If you disagree with how much you are being paid each week, or if you think you should be receiving more, call the same number and explain the issue. DEED can review your earnings history and recalculate your benefit if there was an error.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time of day has the shortest wait on the phone?

Early mornings and mid-week (Tuesday through Thursday) typically have shorter waits. Avoid calling on Mondays and Fridays, which are the busiest days. Calling before 10 a.m. usually means you will reach someone within 15 to 30 minutes rather than an hour or more.

Can I file a claim by mail instead of calling or going online?

DEED does not accept paper applications by mail. You must file online at uimn.org or by phone at 651-296-3712. If you cannot use either method, visit a local workforce center and ask staff to help you file in person.

What if I worked in Minnesota but now live in another state?

You can still file a claim with Minnesota if you worked there. Call 651-296-3712 or file online at uimn.org. If you worked in multiple states, you may need to file claims in each state where you earned wages. DEED can advise you on this during your call.

How long does it take to get my first payment after I call?

DEED typically approves claims within one to three business days of filing. Once approved, your first payment arrives within one to two weeks. If you file on a Monday, you might receive payment by the following Friday, but this varies based on your bank's processing time.

Can I call DEED on weekends or after 4:30 p.m.?

No. Phone lines are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time only. If you need to file outside these hours, use the online system at uimn.org, which is available 24 hours a day.