Contact the Vermont Department of Labor Claims Center as soon as possible after you are laid off.
Apply even if your employer says not to. Employers do not make decisions about unemployment benefits — the state does.
Initial claims for unemployment compensation must be done by phone or online. Call 1-877-214-3332. The Department of Labor has created an online form for establishing an initial claim — complete the form here.
Before you call the Department of Labor to make a claim, gather information for their list of required information. You will have to give information about yourself and your work history.
The Department of Labor will review your claim. They will notify the employer that laid you off. The department will send you a “determination letter” that tells you whether you will get unemployment benefits.