Claimant Most Frequently Asked Questions - Unemployment Insurance

BEACON is Maryland's online unemployment insurance (UI) system which integrates benefits, appeals, and contributions functionalities.

BEACON allows claimants (a claimant refers to an individual who files an initial claim for UI benefits) to:

apply for unemployment insurance benefits (also called filing an initial claim);
file claim certifications each week;
upload supporting documentation;
review their benefit payment history;
retrieve correspondence and other claimant information;
respond to fact-finding requests;
submit supporting documents;
file appeals; and,
track and pay overpayments, among other tasks.

To use BEACON, you must create an account, including a username and password, which you will use to log in to the system. When you log in to BEACON, you will be in your claimant portal. You will receive correspondence and notices about your UI claim in your claimant portal. You can also complete several UI tasks from your portal.

NOTE: In addition to BEACON, you will receive correspondence through your preferred communication method: e-mail, text message, or postal mail. You will select your preferred communication method when you file an initial claim for UI benefits.

You may use the BEACON mobile app, MD Unemployment for Claimants, to complete some, but not all, unemployment insurance tasks in BEACON. In the app, you can file weekly claim certifications, review your unemployment insurance claim information, receive notifications, provide tax withholding preferences, and update your address. However, you can not use the app to file an initial claim.
The app is available to download from the Google Play Store and the iOS App Store.

2. Which UI programs can I apply for using BEACON?

Claimants can use BEACON to file UI claims for programs including but not limited to:

Regular Unemployment Insurance, including for claimants who:
- earned wages in multiple states; and
- had more than 3 employers in the last 18 months.
NOTE: If an additional federal or emergency UI benefit program becomes available, the Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance ( the Division) website will include information about how to apply for the program.

3. How do I create a BEACON account? How do I file an initial claim in BEACON?

To use BEACON, you must create an account, including a username and password, which you will use to log in to the system.

To create a BEACON account:
- Go to the BEACON claimant portal login web page.
- Select “Get Started with BEACON.”
- After selecting the link, the question “Have you ever filed for unemployment insurance benefits in Maryland?” will display.
  - If you previously filed for UI benefits in Maryland, answer “yes” and follow the prompts. This process allows you to activate your BEACON account and gives you access to your previous claim data.
    - After you activate your account, you can file an initial claim in BEACON by selecting the Apply for Benefits tab from the left menu and following the prompts.
  - If you have not filed for UI benefits in Maryland previously, answer “no” to the question “Have you ever filed for unemployment insurance benefits in Maryland?” Follow the prompts to create a BEACON account and file an initial claim.
- The Division created the BEACON: Quick Start Instructions document to help claimants create or access their BEACON accounts.
4. How do I log in to my BEACON?

To log in to your BEACON portal:
- Go to the BEACON claimant portal login web page. Select Login to My Account. You will be taken to a screen where you can enter your username and password.
- Enter your username and password.
- Enter the Captcha code shown on the screen.
- Select the login button to log into your BEACON portal.
NOTE: If you created an account in the BEACON One-Stop application, prior to the BEACON launch in September 2020, you may use this username and password to access BEACON.

5. How do I file a claim if I started an application in BEACON, but have not completed it?
- Please go to the BEACON claimant login webpage. Then, select the Get Started with BEACON link.
- The question, Have you ever filed for unemployment insurance benefits in Maryland?, will display. If you have not filed, answer no.
- Then, select the Complete an Unfinished Claim Application link. Enter your username and password, and follow the prompts to continue.
6. How do I reset my BEACON username or password?

To reset your BEACON username or password:
- Go to the BEACON claimant portal login web page.
- Select “Login to my Account.” You will be taken to a screen where you can enter your username and password.
- Select either “Forgot Username” or “Forgot Password.”
- If you selected, “Forgot Username,” enter the email address associated with your BEACON account and enter the Captcha code.
- If you selected “Forgot Password,” enter your BEACON username and enter the Captcha code.
- Follow the prompts and enter any requested information.
- If you could not reset your username or password, call a claims agent at 667-207-6520.
7. How do I file a weekly claim certification in BEACON?

A weekly claim certification is your request to be paid unemployment insurance (UI) benefits for a particular week of unemployment. If you do not file timely weekly claim certifications, your benefit payments may be delayed/denied.

To file in BEACON:
- Log in to your BEACON portal.
- Select the "Weekly Certification" tab from the left menu. Follow the prompts and answer the questions to file your weekly claim certification. You will be able to answer the weekly claim certification questions for the oldest week that you have available to certify.
To learn more, see the Claims Filing - Weekly Claims Certifications section of this webpage and the Filing Your Weekly Claim Certification tutorial video.

8. How do I view correspondence in BEACON?
- Login to your BEACON portal, and select the Correspondence tab from your portal’s left menu.
- Select the search tab to display your correspondence.
9. How do I upload supporting documentation in BEACON?
- Log in to your BEACON portal and select Account Profile and Maintenance from your portal’s left menu.
- Then, select Upload Document.
- Choose the Select Files button and then upload the appropriate document. Then, select the Upload Document button.
ALL documents, including photos, must be legible.

10. How do I file an appeal in BEACON?

To file an appeal (or to see if there is anything that you can appeal), log in to your BEACON portal.
- Select the "Correspondence" tab from your portal’s left menu. Then, select the search button.
- If you have a determination that you may appeal, there will be a “File Appeal” link on the end of the row of that Determination.
- Select the File Appeal link and follow the prompts to file an appeal. At the end of that process, you will receive an appeal number.
Solutions to Common Technical Issues

11. I received an e-mail from BEACON that is supposed to have a link, but there is no link in the e-mail, just regular text. How do I follow the link?

The Division may send an e-mail to you with an embedded link to BEACON. Some e-mail servers protect end users from “phishing” attacks and other malicious behavior by converting embedded links to secure links. If you receive an e-mail from BEACON and the embedded link is displayed only as text, please activate the links using the instructions given by your e-mail provider.

12. I tried to log in to BEACON, but I received an error message in my browser. What should I do?

If you are receiving an error message in your browser (such as a 404 – File or directory not found), please try closing the browser and retrying BEACON, or try another supported browser.

13. I am unable to login because I keep getting a message that my username/password are ____ (not in the system; not recognized; invalid).

Please note that when creating your account, usernames CANNOT have any special characters; however, passwords MUST INCLUDE at least one special character. If your username and password follow these directives and you are still unable to login, please review the following login guides: BEACON User Guide. If you are still experiencing issues, please contact a claims agent at 667-207-6520.

14. I activated my account, but I can’t login and keep seeing the message “User ID is not defined.” What should I do?

Please note that when creating your account, usernames CANNOT have any special characters; however, passwords MUST INCLUDE at least one special character. If your username and password follow these directives and you are still unable to login, please return to BEACON and then select “Getting Started with BEACON" to try to activate your account again. If you are still experiencing issues, please contact a claims agent at 667-207-6520.

Resources and Technical Assistance
15. Where can I learn more about using BEACON?
The Division created several resources to help you use BEACON, including:
- BEACON Claimant Tutorial Videos
- BEACON Claimant Resource Guide
- BEACON Claimant User Guide
- BEACON Glossary of Terms
16. Technical Support

If you require technical assistance with the BEACON system, call a claims agent at 667-207-6520. For agent hours, see the Claimant Contact Information webpage.

Benefit Payment Options - Direct Deposit or Check

Benefit Payment Options - Direct Deposit or Check

1. How will I receive my unemployment insurance (UI) benefit payments?

The Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance (the Division) offers two choices for receiving benefit payments; direct deposit or check sent by mail. You will select your preferred payment method when you file an initial claim (also called applying for UI benefits).
- For more information about filing an initial claim, see the Claims Filing - Initial Claims section of this webpage.
After the initial claim is filed, you can change your payment method in the:
- To learn more about BEACON, see the BEACON section of this webpage and the BEACON Claimant Tutorial Videos webpage.
2. Why did the Division transition to a new UI benefit payment method, direct deposit?

In spring 2021, the Division transitioned from the debit card benefit payment method to direct deposit. The Division launched this new method to provide a safe and efficient benefit payment experience for claimants and to help ensure the integrity of the unemployment insurance program.
- A claimant refers to an indiviual who files an initial claim for UI benefits.
Direct deposit is an electronic transfer of funds directly into a recipient's bank account that is both safe and convenient. Claimants are strongly encouraged to enroll in direct deposit if they have a checking or savings account and their financial institution is able to receive direct deposits.

NOTE: On February 1, 2022, all Maryland UI benefits debit cards were deactivated. If you had a balance on your debit card before it was deactivated, contact the Bank of America Service Center at 855-847-2029.

3. How can I select direct deposit or paper check as my payment method?

You will be required to choose your preferred payment method (direct deposit or paper check) when you file an initial claim. (in the online BEACON UI system or by calling a claims agent at 667-207-6520, Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m).
- Please note: For the safety of your personal information, Division staff (including claims agents) are unable to update or enter your bank account information.
- For more information about filing an initial claim, see the Claims Filing - Initial Claims section of this webpage
After you file an initial claim, you can change your payment method in BEACON or the MD Unemployment for Claimants mobile app (available to download from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store). Although you can use the app to select your payment method, you cannot use the app to complete the micro deposit verification process (see questions 7 and 8 below). To complete the micro deposit process, you must log into BEACON.

To change your payment method in BEACON select “Change Payment Method” under the Quick Actions section of your BEACON portal.
- If you select direct deposit, you will be asked to enter your bank account information.
- If you select paper check, you will be asked to confirm your mailing address. You must do so even if your mailing address has not changed.
4. I am interested in direct deposit, but I do not have a bank account. What are my options?

If you do not have an account with a financial institution but would like to select direct deposit as your payment method, consider opening a bank or credit union account.

To learn more general information about bank and credit union accounts, read the FAQs from the Office of Financial Regulation. To learn about some of the many bank account options available for Marylanders, visit the CASH Campaign of Maryland’s Bank On Maryland program.

Please note it is a consumer’s responsibility to thoroughly research and review any information provided by any of these entities before opening an account. You may also contact a financial institution of your choice.

NOTE: If you have additional questions about any of the financial institutions listed on the Bank On Maryland website, please contact the financial institution directly.

5. What information do I need to sign up for direct deposit?

You will need your:
- Account Type: This will usually be a checking or savings account.
- Bank Routing Number: This number identifies the bank or credit union. For a checking account, it is the nine-digit number that generally appears on the lower left portion of a personal check. A savings account typically does not have the routing number listed, so you may need to contact your financial institution for the routing number.
- Account Number: For a checking account, the account number usually appears just to the right of the bank routing number on the check. It may be a series of digits followed by the check number or it may be a series of digits after the check number. The number of digits in an account number differs, depending on the bank or credit union. An account number may also include hyphens, spaces, or letters, and if so, they should be included when entering your account information. The savings account number should be on your statement or passbook.
- If a claimant updates their information with their bank, it will take at least 3 business days for the bank account verification process via BEACON to note these changes.
- However, if a claimant updates their information in BEACON, the information is processed immediately.
After a claimant updates their name or address (and if done so with their bank, has waited at least 3 business days), a claimant must enter their bank account information again, and select “verify.” Once the verification process is successful, a claimant’s direct deposit enrollment is complete.

If further verification of your bank account information is needed by Wells Fargo, this will happen via a micro deposit process. The purpose of this micro deposit process is to ensure that your bank account is able to receive benefit payments by direct deposit. You will receive two deposits of less than $1.00 into your account, usually within 1-2 business days. You will be able to see them in your bank account’s transaction history.

NOTE: One withdrawal will be made from your account. The withdrawal amount will be equivalent to the amount of the two micro deposits. Although you can select direct deposit as your payment method in the MD Unemployment for Claimants mobile app, you cannot use the mobile app to complete the micro deposit verification process. To complete the micro deposit process, you must log into BEACON.

8. What do I need to do after I receive micro deposits in my bank account?

Once you have received the micro deposits in your account, you must return to your BEACON portal to confirm the amounts that were deposited. You will receive an Action Item in your portal with instructions.

NOTE: This can only be completed by accessing BEACON via an internet browser. You cannot use the MD Unemployment for Claimants mobile app to confirm the micro deposits.

9. What should I do if my bank account information is not verified by the micro deposit process?

If the micro deposit process cannot verify your bank account information, it may be due to one of two reasons:
- You entered your bank account information in BEACON, but you did not complete the micro deposit process by entering the amount of the two micro deposits in BEACON;
- You entered your bank account information in BEACON incorrectly, and as a result, the micro deposits were not deposited into your account.
- If you entered your bank account information less than five days ago, monitor your bank account’s transaction history for the micro deposits. Once they are deposited into your account, complete the Action Item in your BEACON portal.
- If you entered your bank account information more than five days ago, check your bank account’s transaction history for the micro deposits. If they were deposited in your account, log into your BEACON portal to complete the Action Item. The Action Item will remain in your portal until you have: 1. Completed the micro deposit verification process; 2. Entered new bank account information; or, 3. Changed your payment method. If your bank account information was entered incorrectly:
  - You must start the enrollment process again to receive benefit payments by direct deposit.
  - Sign into BEACON. Under “Quick Actions,” select “Change Payment Method.”
  - Select “Pay my benefits by Direct Deposit” and enter your bank account information.
  - If your bank account information is verified, the following message will be displayed in your BEACON portal: “Bank details verification is successful. Payment Method is updated.”
  - You must log into your BEACON portal.
  - Click on “Change Payment Method” (on your homepage under “Quick Actions”).
  - Select “Pay my benefits by check mailed by United States Postal Service.”
  - You will be asked to confirm your mailing address. You must do so even if your mailing address has not changed.
  10. What happens if my bank account information is NOT verified by Wells Fargo? If you attempt to enroll in direct deposit payments and your banking account information is not approved, you may consider using another financial institution to receive direct deposit payments. If you do not want to use another financial institution, please elect to receive benefit payments by paper check. 11. When can I expect to receive my benefit payment (via direct deposit or check)?Direct Deposit If you requested benefit payments via direct deposit, the timing of your payment depends on both when you filed your weekly claim certification and the amount of time it takes your banking institution to process the payment. Your funds will be sent for processing on the next business day. This may vary during holidays and weekends. Check If you requested benefit payments via paper check, the receipt of your payment will depend on when you filed your weekly claim certification. If you are determined to be eligible for benefits, paper checks are processed on the next business day and will be delivered by the U.S. Postal Service. Once the check has been mailed, the Division cannot provide updates on its location or the status of its delivery. 12. What must I do in the event my unemployment benefit check is lost, damaged or stolen? You can report a lost, damaged or stolen check in your BEACON claimant portal.
  - From your BEACON claimant portal homepage, select “Benefit Payment” from the left menu, and then select “Lost, Stolen & or Damaged Check.” Then, select “Search.
  - Under “ Payment History,” select the week ending date related to the benefit payment.
  - Once you have chosen the date, select “ Lost, Stolen or Damaged Check(s).”
  - In the Lost, Stolen or Damaged Check Details section, select whether your payment was lost, stolen, or damaged from the Reason dropdown menu. Then, enter any additional pertinent information in the “Notes” section.
    - Go to the Quick Actions section, select, “Change Address/Phone/email,” and update your mailing address.
    - If you choose check as your new payment method you must verify your mailing address in BEACON, regardless of whether or not your mailing address has changed.
    14. How can I find out whether I was paid for a particular week?
    
    Please log into BEACON , select “Benefit Payment” from the left menu, and then “Payment History.” This section will provide you with a history of your payments.
    
    Claims Filing - Initial Claims
    
    Claims Filing - Initial Claims
    
    Filing an initial claim (also called applying for unemployment insurance benefits) is the first step in your unemployment insurance (UI) process. You must file your claim before you can receive UI benefit payments.
    
    The Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance (the Division) will use your initial claim in determining if you are eligible for UI benefits. See the information below to learn more.
    
    1. When should I file my initial claim?
    
    You should apply for UI benefits (also called filing an initial claim) immediately following your last day of work. Your eligibility for UI benefits cannot be determined until your initial claim is filed.
    
    To learn more about how the Division determines if you are eligible for UI benefits, see the Eligibility Requirements section of the Claimant FAQs webpage.
    
    2. How do I file an initial claim?
    
    You can file an initial claim (also called applying for UI benefits) in the online BEACON UI system, 24/7, or by calling a claims agent at 667-207-6520 (Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.).
    - If you have never created an account in BEACON, you can file an initial claim on the BEACON claimant login page by selecting the Get Started with BEACON link and following the prompts.
    - If you have created an account in BEACON, you can apply by logging in to BEACON, selecting the Apply for Benefits tab from the left menu, and following the prompts.
    To learn more about using BEACON, see the:
    - BEACON section of the Claimant FAQs webpage
    - BEACON Claimant Tutorial Videos
    - BEACON Claimant Portal User Guide
    Reapplying for UI Benefits
    
    In some circumstances, you may be required to file an initial claim again (also called reapplying for UI benefits) to reestablish your eligibility for benefits. These circumstances include, but are not limited to:
    If you need to reapply for benefits, when you log in to BEACON, the left menu labeled Your Options will include an “Apply for Benefits” tab. You should select this tab and follow the prompts to reapply. For more information, see the Reapplying for UI Benefits in BEACON section of the Claimant FAQs webpage.
    
    3. What information do I need to file my initial claim?
    
    When you file your initial claim you will need to provide the following information:
    - Personal Information: Your name, date of birth, Social Security number, residential and mailing address, telephone number, and email address
    - Employer Information: For each employer you worked for during the last 18 months, please provide the: name, address, and telephone number for each employer, employment start and end dates; if applicable, your return-to-work date, and reason for separation from each employer
    - Citizenship Status: If you are not a U.S. citizen or national, your Alien Registration Number
    - Former Military Status, if applicable: If you were in the military within the last 18 months, your former military status and DD214 - Member 4 document is needed
    - Union Name and Local Number, if applicable
    - Former Federal Government Employee Status, if applicable: If you are a former federal employee, provide Form SF-50 or SF-8
    - Name, Date of Birth, and Social Security Number for each Dependent
    NOTE: A dependent is defined as a son, daughter, stepchild or legally adopted child under the age of 16 whom you support. At the time you file your initial claim, only one parent may claim a dependent(s), up to a maximum of five (5), during any one year benefit period. See question 13 for more information about dependents.
    
    For more details about information and/or documentation you may need to provide, see the Information and Documents Needed for Claims Filing webpage.
    
    4. What payments must I report when I file an initial claim? How will these payments affect my UI benefits?
    
    When you file an initial claim, you are required to report any payments you received or know you will receive. This includes severance, vacation, holiday, bonus, or retirement payments, back pay, damages, and special payments. If you fail to report these payments, the Division may determine you were overpaid and require you to repay any overpaid benefits (with possible interest, fines, and penalty fees). To learn more about overpayments, see the Overpayments and Fraud FAQs.
    - If you receive any of the payments listed above, your UI benefits may be reduced or denied (for the weeks affected by the payments). If you receive back pay from your former employer, your UI benefits will be denied (retroactively for any week to which back pay is attributable).
    Vacation, Holiday, Bonus Pay, Back Page/Damages or Special Payments - If you receive vacation, holiday, bonus, back pay or damages, and/or other special payments after filing an initial claim, report it to a claims agent as soon as possible by calling (667) 207-6520. For claims agent hours, see the Claimant Contact Information webpage. Your benefits may be reduced or denied for the weeks these payments affect, depending on the circumstances.
    
    Severance Payments - If you receive severance payments after you file an initial claim, you must report them by calling a claims agent at (667) 207-6520. Do not report severance payments as wages when filing your weekly claim certification. Severance payments are deductible from UI benefits (based on the number of weeks of your regular wage the payments cover). Once your severance payments are exhausted, you may receive UI benefits, if you are eligible.
    
    Retirement Payments - You must report lump sum or monthly retirement payments (from any employer that you worked for during the last 18 months) on your initial claim. These payments may be deductible from UI benefits, depending on the payment amount, the type of retirement payment, etc.
    - Retirement payments include: pension, annuity, or retirement/retired pay (from a trust, annuity, profit sharing plan, insurance fund, insurance or annuity contract, or any similar lump sum or periodic payment).
    - If you receive your first retirement payment after filing your initial claim, and the retirement payment(s) was not previously reported to the Division, you must report the payment on your weekly claim certification. You must also report any changes to the amount of your retirement payment.
    NOTE: You are NOT required to report Social Security income on your initial claim or weekly claim certification.
    
    IMPORTANT: Depending on your circumstances, you may be required to report additional payments/earnings on your weekly claim certifications (including any earnings from employment, self-employment, etc.). Please see Unemployment Insurance in Maryland; A Guide to Reemployment and the Claims Filing - Weekly Claims Certifications section of the Claimant FAQs webpage to learn more.
    
    5. How does the Division determine if I am eligible for UI benefits?
    
    When you file an initial claim, the Division will determine if you are monetarily eligible and non-monetarily eligible to receive UI benefits. To be monetarily eligible for UI benefits, you must have earned wages in covered employment during at least two calendar quarters in the base period (standard or alternate). To learn more about the base period, see questions 9 and 10 (What is the Standard Base Period? and What is the Alternate Base Period?).
    
    Covered employment is any service performed for remuneration (payment) whether full-time or part-time, that is used as the basis for UI benefits. When an individual performs a service for an employer in return for wages, the individual is likely covered for UI purposes. Some positions, such as an independent contractor, are exempt from covered employment. For exemptions, see Employers’ General UI Contributions Information and Definitions.
    
    To determine if you are non-monetarily eligible, the Division considers the reason you separated from employment, whether you are able to work, available for work, and actively seeking work, and whether you are receiving any payments that are deductible from UI benefits (such as vacation pay, holiday pay, special pay, severance pay, a pension, or back pay or damages).
    
    6. What if I worked in a state other than Maryland or more than one state?
    
    If all of your work in the last 18 months has been in a state other than Maryland, your claim should be filed against that state. The laws of that state will govern your claim.
    
    If you worked in Maryland and other states, you may have the option to file your claim against any one of the states in which you worked and have monetary eligibility. You may also choose to combine wages from the states in which you worked to establish a combined wage claim. A combined wage claim may result in a higher weekly benefit amount. Combined wage claims can be filed online via BEACON or by calling 667-207-6520.
    
    7. Where should I file my UI claim if I work in another state but reside in Maryland?
    
    If you work in another state but reside in Maryland, you should file your claim in the state you work in. A UI claim is filed against the state where you worked, not where you reside.
    
    8. Are UI payments taxable?
    
    Yes, your UI benefits are subject to federal and state taxes. You can choose to have either federal taxes (10%), Maryland state taxes (7%), both (17%), or neither deducted from your weekly UI benefits during the initial claim process.
    
    NOTE: You will choose your tax withholding option when you file an initial claim. If you wish to change your tax option after you file an initial claim, you can do this in BEACON.
    
    You must report the amount of UI benefits you received when you file your income taxes. To learn more, see the 1099-G Information webpage.
    
    9. What is the Standard Base Period?
    
    The standard base period is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before your claim effective date. The wages you earned during those quarters are used to determine if you are monetarily eligible for UI benefits.
    
    Note: Your claim effective date is the Sunday of the week during which the initial claim is filed. For example, if you file a claim on Wednesday, March 4, the claim’s effective date is Sunday, March 1.
    
    You must have earnings in at least two of the four quarters during the base period (as of the date you file your claim). See the diagram below.
    
    Month of New Claim:
    
    Your Standard Base Period is the 12-Month Period Ending the Previous:
    
    January, February or March
    
    April, May or June
    
    July, August or September
    
    October, November or December
    
    10. What is the Alternate Base Period?
    
    If you are not monetarily eligible for any UI benefits using the standard base period, you may be eligible using the alternate base period (ABP). The ABP is the most recently completed four calendar quarters of wages before your claim effective date. The wages you earned during those quarters are used to determine if you are monetarily eligible for UI benefits.
    
    Note: Your claim effective date is the Sunday of the week during which the initial claim is filed. For example, if you file a claim on Wednesday, March 4, the claim’s effective date is Sunday, March 1.
    
    Your weekly benefit amount (WBA) will be approximately one half of your gross weekly wage up to the maximum weekly benefit amount. You must have earnings in at least two of the four quarters during the ABP (as of the date you file your claim). See the diagram below.
    
    Month of New Claim:
    
    Your Alternate Base Period is the 12-Month Period Ending the Previous:
    
    January, February or March
    
    April, May or June
    
    July, August or September
    
    October, November or December
    
    11. What is the benefit year? How long does it last?
    
    Your benefit year is a one-year period (52 weeks) beginning the Sunday of the week in which you file your initial claim. Under Maryland’s regular UI program, you may receive up to 26 weeks of your weekly benefit amount per benefit year.
    - NOTE: If you receive partial UI benefits (for example, due to working part-time while receiving UI benefits) your UI benefits may last more than 26 weeks. However, you will not receive more than the equivalent of 26 weeks of your weekly benefit amount. For more about the weekly benefit amount, see Question 13 (How much money can I receive in UI benefits? How is my weekly benefit amount (WBA) determined for regular UI benefits?).
    - You may receive more than 26 weeks of benefit payments in a benefit year if a federal extension program is available. You will be notified if an extension program is in effect.
    For example, if you filed your initial claim on Friday, March 6, your benefit year would start on Sunday, March 1. This would be your “Benefit Year Beginning” or “Claim Effective Date.”
    
    For any questions or concerns, please call a claims agent at 667-207-6520.
    
    12. I filed my initial claim. How do I know if I am eligible for UI benefits?
    
    After you file an initial claim, you will receive a Statement of Wages and Monetary Determination form, which will tell you whether or not you are eligible for UI benefits. This form will show your base period employer(s), wages earned from each employer, and your weekly benefit amount (WBA).
    
    The determination will be sent in BEACON and through your preferred communication method (selected when you filed an initial claim). You can also update your preferred communication method in BEACON (log in, navigate to the Quick Actions section, select Change Communication Preference, and follow the prompts).
    
    If you think a correction should be made to your determination, contact a claims agent immediately at 667-207-6520. You may be asked to submit copies of your pay stubs, W-2 forms, and any other proof of wages that you have.
    
    13. How much money can I receive in UI benefits? How is my weekly benefit amount (WBA) determined for regular UI benefits?
    
    The weekly benefit amount (WBA) is a fixed weekly benefit payment a claimant who is eligible for UI benefits will receive from the Division. The WBA is based on the wages you earned during the base period (standard or alternate). The WBA in Maryland ranges from a minimum of $50 to a maximum of $430. You may receive up to 26 weeks of your WBA per benefit year (under Maryland’s regular UI program), as long as you meet all eligibility criteria.
    
    NOTE:
    1. If eligible, you will be paid a dependents’ allowance of $8 per dependent (up to a maximum of five dependents). If you receive dependents’ allowance, you will still not receive more than the $430 maximum WBA.
    2. If you earn and report wages that are less than your WBA, you may receive partial benefits.
    3. If you receive partial UI benefits, your UI benefits may last more than 26 weeks. However, you will not receive more than the equivalent of 26 weeks of your weekly benefit amount. A claimant’s maximum benefit amount and monetary balance are listed in BEACON (under the Claim Information section of the portal’s homepage).
    4. View a schedule of UI Benefits.
    Claims Filing - Weekly Claim Certifications
    
    Claims Filing - Weekly Claim Certifications
    
    1. What is a weekly claim certification and when should I file my weekly claim certification?
    
    A weekly claim certification is your request to be paid unemployment insurance (UI) benefits for a particular week you are unemployed. After you file your initial claim for benefits, you must file a weekly claim certification for each week that you are unemployed and requesting benefit payments.
    
    The Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance (the Division) benefit week is from Sunday to Saturday. When you file a weekly claim certification, you are requesting payment for the prior completed benefit week. You may file your claim certification (immediately following the week for which you are requesting payment) beginning on Sunday at 12:01 a.m. until Saturday at 11:59 p.m.
    
    For example, to request payment for the benefit week that started on Sunday, May 9, and ended on Saturday, May 15, file your claim between Sunday, May 16, and Saturday, May 22. However, the Division strongly recommends that you file your claim early in the week.
    
    Failure to file your weekly claim certifications on time may result in a delay or denial of benefits. If your weekly claim certifications are filed properly, you will receive a processing number. If you do not receive a processing number, contact a claims agent immediately at 667-207-6520 (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday).
    
    2. Why do I need to file a claim certification every week?
    
    To receive UI benefits, you must certify (by answering claim certification questions) each week that you are still unemployed and eligible for benefits. If you do not complete a weekly claim certification, you will not receive unemployment benefits.
    
    3. How do I file a weekly claim certification?
    
    To request benefit payments, you must file a weekly claim certification. You may file your weekly claim certification:
    - online through your BEACON portal;
    - by calling 410-949-0022 or 800-827-4839; or
    - through the MD Unemployment for Claimants mobile app (available to download from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store).
    Each method is available 24/7. The weekly claim certification questions are identical no matter which method you use to file.
    
    To file your weekly claim certification in BEACON, go to the BEACON login page and enter your username and password to access your BEACON claimant portal.
    
    To file your weekly claim certification, you can select "Weekly Certification" from the menu on the left side of your portal screen.
    
    You can also file a weekly claim certification by accessing your Action Items. You will have an Action Item to complete your claim certification when one is available to be filed. Navigate to the Action Items section of your portal homepage and select the “View” link (this link will display if you have an open action item). On the next screen, select the appropriate action item.
    
    Then, review the "Guidelines for Requesting a Claim Week." Once you read through the guidelines, select "Next" at the bottom of the screen.
    
    You will now be able to answer the weekly claim certification questions for the oldest week that you have available to certify. Please ensure that you answer the questions correctly for the week displayed.
    
    You will be asked to certify that the information you provided on your weekly claim certification is correct. To acknowledge that the information you provided is correct, select the checkbox on the appropriate screen. You will then be able to submit your certification for that week.
    
    You may continue the same process for other certification weeks available. Continue to complete and file claim certifications for every week that you are out of work.
    
    4. Can you explain the weekly claim certification questions?
    - Question 1. Were you able and available to work in your occupation without restrictions during the week?This means you were physically and mentally able to work and available to work all hours on any days that are customary for your occupation. This question is asking whether you were able to work and available for work without any restrictions.
      - To be able to work without restrictions means that there are no physical limitations on your ability to perform the work that you customarily perform.
      - To be available for work without any restrictions means that there are no limitations on your time which would make you unavailable for work during the hours that your work is customarily performed.
      If there were restrictions on your ability to work and/or availability to work during the week, including restrictions due to lack of childcare or transportation, then answer “NO” to this question. If there were no restrictions on your ability to work and availability for work, then answer “YES” to this question.
      
      Question 2. Did you attend school or training during the week?
      
      This question is asking if you attended school or any training during the week, including school/training approved by the Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning (DWDAL). This includes any classroom or training session that occurs online or virtually.
      
      Select “YES” if you attended school or training. Select “NO” if you DID NOT attend school or training.
      
      NOTE: If you are attending school or training that is not approved by DWDAL, you may be contacted by the Division for a telephone fact-finding appointment.
      
      Question 3. Did you actively search for work during the week?
      
      This question is asking if you met the Division’s active search for work requirement during the benefit week. If you do not meet the active search for work requirement, your benefit payments may be delayed or denied.
      
      To satisfy the active search for work requirement, you are required to:
      1. complete your registration with the Maryland Workforce Exchange (MWE);
      2. upload or create a résumé in MWE, make the résumé viewable to employers, and maintain an up-to-date résumé in MWE while collecting UI benefits;
        
        After you complete your MWE registration, check your MWE inbox frequently for information about weekly tasks or actions that you are required to complete. Failure to complete these activities may result in a delay or denial of your UI benefits.
      3. complete at least three valid reemployment activities per week, which must include at least one job contact; and,
      4. keep a detailed weekly record of all completed job contacts and valid reemployment activities. You are strongly urged to use the Job Contact and Reemployment Activity Log, located in MWE, to keep this record.
      Detailed instructions for registering with MWE and entering your job contact(s) and valid reemployment activities are available online, as well as in this video tutorial. A full list of valid reemployment activities is also available on the Division’s website.
      
      Question 4. Did you work either full time or part time during the week?
      
      This question asks whether you worked or earned any income during the week. This includes payment from permanent or temporary work, part time work, self-employment, odd jobs, tips, paid training, remote work, and etc.
      
      Payments must be reported in the week that you performed the work (with the exception of commission payments. See Question 5 below for details about commission payments). If you have not been paid yet, you still must report your earnings. If you answer “YES,” then you will be asked to report your gross earnings. Your gross earnings refer to the total amount you earn before taxes or deductions (such as for medical insurance premiums) are taken out.
      
      NOTE: If you begin working full-time, you are not unemployed, and you are not entitled to UI benefits. If you are working a full-time temporary job and become unemployed after the job ends, you may reopen your claim, if you have remaining benefits.
      
      FRAUD WARNING: If you make a false statement or representation, or knowingly fail to disclose a fact to obtain or increase benefit payments, you may be disqualified from receiving UI benefits. Additionally, you may be required to repay any benefits fraudulently obtained, with interest and fees.
      
      Question 5. Did you receive any commission earnings during the week?
      
      This question asks you to report any commission pay that you received in the week. Commission payments are reported the week they are received, not when the job was done. If you answer “YES,” then you will be asked to report your gross wages. Your gross wages refer to the amount of money that you receive for work before taxes or deductions (such as for medical insurance premiums) are taken out.
      
      Question 6. Did you receive your first payment from a pension that you have not already reported? Do not include Social Security benefits.
      
      You must report any lump sum pension or monthly pension payments you receive from any employer for whom you have worked during the last 18 months. These payments may be deductible from UI benefits. It is required that you report the effective date of any pension payments, even if the actual payments are received at a later date. You must also report any changes to your pension amount.
      
      Question 7. Do you authorize the Maryland Department of Labor to share information from your unemployment claim with Maryland Health Connection so that Maryland Health Connection can contact you to help you enroll in free or low-cost health insurance?
      
      This question is asking if you are comfortable with information on your unemployment insurance claim being shared with Maryland Health Connection. If you choose to share your information, Maryland Health Connection will contact you about free or low-cost health insurance. Please select “yes” to share this information or select “no” if you do not want to share your information.
      
      Your answer to this question will not impact your eligibility for unemployment insurance benefits.
      
      Yes, you must report your gross earnings. Your gross earnings refer to the total amount that you earned before any taxes or deductions, such as for medical insurance premiums, were taken out.
      
      Denials and Payments
      
      Denials and Payments
      
      1. What does it mean to be disqualified? What can cause a disqualification?
      
      Being disqualified (also called being penalized) means that a determination was made to deny your unemployment insurance (UI) benefit payments. This may occur if you fail to meet a UI requirement(s) (in accordance with the Maryland Unemployment Insurance law).
      - For more about Maryland’s UI requirements, see the Eligibility Requirements section of the Claimant FAQs webpage and Unemployment Insurance in Maryland; A Guide to Reemployment.
      When the Maryland Division of Unemployment Insurance (the Division) makes a determination that affects your eligibility for benefits, you will receive a Notice of Benefit Determination (sent through your preferred communication method and available in your BEACON portal).
      - The Notice of Benefit Determination will explain why you were allowed or denied UI benefits. If you were denied, the determination will include the: