January 22, 2010

The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training has created a two-page preparatory guide to assist new claimants who are filing for unemployment insurance benefits. The guide gives an outline of required information, including work history, financial information and dependent information, so that claimants may have all the necessary paperwork compiled prior to filing a claim online or through the unemployment insurance call center. The guide is available for viewing on the department’s web site at www.dlt.ri.gov/ui/guide.htm. A print version is also available for download through this web page; www.dlt.ri.gov/ui/pdfs/UIGuide.pdf.

In 2009, the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training distributed more than $735 million in regular, state extended and federal emergency unemployment benefits. In addition to meeting earning requirements, a claimant must be able, available and actively seeking work in order to receive unemployment insurance benefits each week. Related information on unemployment insurance programs available in Rhode Island, as well as call center hours, filing instructions, certification instructions and payment information, can be found at http://www.dlt.ri.gov/ui/.

About the RI Department of Labor and Training

The RI Department of Labor and Training offers employment services, educational services and economic opportunity to both individuals and employers. DLT protects Rhode Island’s workforce by enforcing labor laws, prevailing wage rates and workplace health and safety standards. The department also provides temporary income support to unemployed and temporarily disabled workers. For more information on the programs and services available to all Rhode Islanders, please call the RI Department of Labor and Training at (401) 462-8000 or visit the web site at www.dlt.ri.gov. 

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