0

Qualifying for Benefits

#FFFFFF

Employers throughout the state fund unemployment benefits by paying premiums and reporting wages for employees that are in their employ. Unemployment benefits are paid out of this fund.

In order to qualify for benefits, you must:

  • Be unemployed through no fault of your own.
  • Be able, available, and actively seeking work.
  • Have earned $2,500 during your base period.
#FFFFFF

Base Period

A base period is a timeframe in which we review the amount of wages you earned to determine if you qualify for benefits. You must have earned $2,500 during a standard base period, which is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before the start date of your claim.

A calendar quarter is equal to 3 month segments of the year beginning in January.

Graphic showing breakdown of standard base pay. For more info, refer to Base Period section.
#FFFFFF

Alternate Base Period

If you did not earn at least $2,500 during the standard base period, you may be eligible using an alternate base period (the last four completed calendar quarters before the start date of your claim).

To request the alternate base period, follow the instructions on the Statement of Wages and Possible Benefits you receive after filing your claim.

Graphic showing breakdown of alternative base period section. Refer to alternate base period section for more info.
#FFFFFF

Contact Us

Colorado Division of Unemployment Insurance | 303-318-9000 | Contact Us