Georgia unemployment resources

If you are unemployed in Georgia, here are resources that can help you. Find out how to apply for unemployment benefits in Georgia, information on COBRA health insurance, how to apply for food stamps and get financial assistance with utility bills and childcare, and advice for job seekers from a panel of human resource experts.

How to apply for unemployment in Georgia:

Georgia Department of Labor Career Centers: Directory by City: Where Atlanta job seekers can apply for unemployment benefits

FAQ for Georgia unemployment benefits

Once registered for unemployment benefits in Georgia, you can claim benefits online

Three requirements for Georgia unemployment benefits (per Georgia Department of Labor):

Filer must have earned enough money in base period (In Georgia, this is defined as the first four of the last five calendar quarters completed at the time you file your claim) to set up a claim.
Your unemployment status must be through no fault of your own.
You must be able to work, be seeking work and make yourself available for work on a weekly basis while collecting unemployment benefits.

What to bring when filing Georgia unemployment benefits:

Social security card

Separation notice from employer

Names and addresses of your employers for the last 18 months, with the dates you worked at each place.

Proof of immigration status if you are not a citizen of the United States.

If you want to apply for direct deposit of your unemployment insurance benefits, bring a check with your account number and your bank’s routing number.

For former Military/Government members only: If you separated from the military in the last 18 months, bring DD214 Member 4. If you worked for the federal government in the last 18 months, bring Standard Form 50 and Standard Form 8. If you do not have Standard Form 50, please bring a W-2 form or pay stubs and your wages will be estimated.

COBRA/Health insurance options for unemployed:

COBRA: Continuation of health coverage from the U.S. Department of Labor

COBRA FAQs from the U.S. Department of Labor

How to apply for food stamps in Georgia:

Georgia’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

Get help paying utility bills in Georgia:

Georgia House of Representatives resource list

Heating Energy Assistance Team (H.E.A.T.)

Georgia unemployment data:

Georgia Department of Labor Area Unemployment Rate and Labor Force Estimates

GA DOL Business Layoff/Closure Database: Find out which Georgia companies are laying off employees.

Georgia unemployment assistance resources:

Georgia Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (GACCRRA): Resources for parents to aid in finding child care and family living assistance throughout GA.

United Way of Atlanta: Community-based programs for low-income families.

PeachCare for Kids: Health care coverage for children of low-income families.

Georgia Housing Search: Service from the Department of Community Affairs that helps users find affordable housing resources, including special needs housing.