The Arkansas Division of Workforce Services (ADWS) administers the state’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) program. ADWS is responsible for processing claims, distributing benefits, and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. For more information, you can visit their official website. dws.arkansas.gov

How Can I Qualify for Unemployment Benefits in Arkansas?

To qualify for unemployment benefits in Arkansas, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Monetary Eligibility: You must have earned a minimum amount in wages during your base period, which is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before filing your claim.
  2. Reason for Unemployment: You must be unemployed through no fault of your own, as defined by Arkansas law. This generally means you were laid off due to lack of work.
  3. Availability and Ability to Work: You must be physically able to work, available for work, and actively seeking employment.

For a comprehensive overview of eligibility requirements, refer to the “Quick Guide to Arkansas Unemployment Insurance.” wehco.media.clients.ellingtoncms.com

How Much Will I Receive in Unemployment Benefits in Arkansas?

The weekly benefit amount (WBA) in Arkansas ranges from a minimum of $81 to a maximum of $451. The exact amount is determined based on your earnings during the base period. Additionally, you may qualify for up to 12 weeks of benefits per claim. Upon filing your claim, you will receive a monetary determination that specifies your WBA and the total number of weeks you’re eligible for. dws.arkansas.gov

What’s the Process for Applying for Unemployment Benefits in Arkansas?

To apply for unemployment benefits in Arkansas, follow these steps:

  1. Gather Necessary Information: Before starting your application, ensure you have the following:
    • Social Security Number
    • Driver’s license or state ID number
    • Mailing address
    • Contact information for your last employer
    • Dates of employment
    • Reason for unemployment
  2. File Your Claim:
    • Online: Use the EZARC (Easy Arkansas Claims) system to file your initial claim. dws.arkansas.gov
    • By Phone: Call 855-225-4440 to file your claim. a.arlawhelp.org
    • In Person: Visit your local DWS office to file a claim.
  3. Submit Weekly Claims: After filing your initial claim, you must submit weekly claims to receive benefits. This can be done online via ArkNet or by phone through ArkLine at 501-907-2590. dws.arkansas.gov

How Can I Manage My Unemployment Benefits in Arkansas?

To manage your unemployment benefits:

  • Weekly Claims: Ensure you file your weekly claims on time through ArkNet or ArkLine.
  • Job Search Requirements: Maintain a record of your job search activities, as you may be required to provide this information.
  • Address or Contact Information Changes: Update ADWS promptly with any changes to your personal information to avoid delays in benefit payments.

How Can I Appeal a Decision Regarding Arkansas Unemployment Benefits?

If you disagree with a determination made by ADWS:

  1. Appeal to the Appeal Tribunal: File a written appeal within 20 days of the mailing date of the determination notice. Instructions are provided on the notice. To check the status of your appeal, contact the Appeal Tribunal at 501-682-1063. dws.arkansas.gov
  2. Further Appeals: If unsatisfied with the Appeal Tribunal’s decision, you can appeal to the Board of Review and subsequently to the Arkansas Court of Appeals. Each appeal must be filed within 20 days of the previous decision’s mailing date.

How Can I Report Unemployment Fraud in Arkansas?

To report suspected unemployment insurance fraud:

ADWS ensures the confidentiality of all reports and investigates each tip thoroughly.

How Can I Speak to a Representative at Arkansas Unemployment Customer Service?

For assistance:

  • Information Desk: Call 501-682-2121 or email ADWS.Info@arkansas.gov. dws.arkansas.gov
  • Unemployment Services: For specific inquiries, contact the Unemployment Insurance Administration. Kristen Rhodes-Berry, Deputy Director, can be reached at 501-683-5366. dws.arkansas.gov

What Happens if I Was Fired?

If you were terminated from your job, eligibility for unemployment benefits depends on the circumstances:

  • Misconduct: If you were fired for misconduct, such as violating company policies or inappropriate behavior, you might be disqualified from receiving benefits.
  • No Fault of Your Own: If you were let go due to reasons not related to misconduct, such as company downsizing or inability to meet job requirements despite best efforts, you may still qualify for benefits.

ADWS will review the

benefits. This can be done online through the EZARC system or by phone.

  1. Eligibility Determination: After submitting your claim, the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services (ADWS) will process your application and determine your eligibility. You will receive a monetary determination letter outlining your benefits amount and duration.
  2. Receive Benefits: If approved, your benefits will be paid either by a debit card or through direct deposit.

For detailed instructions, you can refer to the Arkansas Unemployment Benefits guide.

How Can I Manage My Unemployment Benefits in Arkansas?

You can manage your unemployment benefits in Arkansas through the following methods:

  1. EZARC System: The EZARC system allows you to file your weekly claims, check your benefit status, update personal information, and review your payment history.
  2. Debit Card: If you receive benefits on a prepaid debit card, you can check your balance, review transaction history, and manage your payments by logging into the provided website or mobile app.
  3. Direct Deposit: If you opt for direct deposit, you can update your bank information via the EZARC system.

For more detailed instructions on managing your benefits, visit the ADWS website.​

How Can I Appeal a Decision Regarding Arkansas Unemployment Benefits?

If you disagree with a decision made about your unemployment benefits, you can appeal the decision by following these steps:

  1. File an Appeal: You must file your appeal in writing within 15 calendar days of the date the decision was mailed to you. The appeal should be submitted to the Arkansas Division of Workforce Services.
  2. Appeal Hearing: Once your appeal is submitted, a hearing will be scheduled. This will allow you to present your case in front of an administrative law judge. You will be notified about the date and time of the hearing.
  3. Hearing Decision: After the hearing, the administrative law judge will make a decision, which you will receive in writing. If you are dissatisfied with this decision, you may further appeal to the Arkansas Board of Review.

For more information about the appeals process, visit the ADWS Appeals section.​

How Can I Report Unemployment Fraud in Arkansas?

To report unemployment fraud in Arkansas, you can:

  1. Report Online: Visit the ADWS fraud reporting page and submit a report online.
  2. Report by Phone: Call the ADWS fraud hotline at 800-800-0002 to report fraudulent activities.
  3. Email: You can also email fraud reports to the ADWS fraud department at fraud@arkansas.gov.

For additional details on how to report fraud, visit the ADWS fraud webpage.​

How Can I Speak to a Representative at Arkansas Unemployment Customer Service?

To speak to a representative for assistance with unemployment claims or issues, you can:

  1. Call the Arkansas Unemployment Customer Service: Dial 855-225-4440 for general inquiries or assistance with your unemployment claim.
  2. Email: You can also contact ADWS by emailing dws.information@arkansas.gov.
  3. In-Person: Visit your local ADWS office if you need to speak with a representative face-to-face. You can find the nearest office on the ADWS website.

For updated contact information, always check the ADWS Contact page.​

What Happens if I Was Fired?

If you were fired, your eligibility for unemployment benefits depends on the reason for your termination. Generally:

  1. Ineligible for Benefits: If you were fired for misconduct, such as theft, insubordination, or violating company policies, you may be disqualified from receiving benefits.
  2. Eligible for Benefits: If you were fired for reasons not related to misconduct (e.g., poor job performance or changes in company needs), you may still qualify for benefits. Each case is reviewed individually, and you may need to provide documentation.

For more details, check the ADWS “Fired and Unemployment Benefits” section.​

What Happens if I Quit My Job?

If you voluntarily quit your job, your eligibility for unemployment benefits may be affected:

  1. Ineligible for Benefits: If you quit without good cause, such as personal reasons unrelated to work conditions, you will likely not be eligible for benefits.
  2. Eligible for Benefits: If you quit for “good cause,” such as unsafe working conditions or a significant change in job duties, you may still be eligible for benefits. You will need to provide evidence to support your reasons for quitting.

Arkansas Unemployment Phone Number and Office Locations

Arkansas Unemployment  Office Arkansas Unemployment Office Locations Arkansas Unemployment Phone Number
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Harrison 818 Highway 62/65 NorthPO Box 280Harrison, AR 72601 870-741-8236
Arkansas Division of Workforce Services 819 Newman DriveHelena, AR 72342-3230 870-338-7415
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Hope 205 Smith Road Suite AHope, AR 71801 870-777-3421
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Hot Springs 201 Market St Suite AHot Springs, AR 71901 501-525-3450
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Jonesboro 2311 East Nettleton StreetJonesboro, AR 72401 870-935-5594
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Lake Village 103 Main StreetPO Box 806Lake Village, AR 71653 870-619-4744
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Little Rock 5401 South University Ave.Little Rock, AR 72209 501-682-7719
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Lonoke 902 N. Center StreetLonoke, AR 72086 501-676-2721
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Magnolia 104 Harvey Couch Blvd.PO Box 369Magnolia, AR 71754 870-234-3440
SAU Tech Adult Educ-ion – Columbia County 104 Harvey Couch BlvdMagnolia, AR 71753 870-234-6064
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Malvern 1735 East SullenbergerPO Box 788Malvern, AR 72104 501-332-5461
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Mena 1100 College DriveAbernathy BuildingMena, AR 71953 479-394-3060
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Monticello 477 South Main StreetPO Box 619Monticello, AR 71655 870-224-7075
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Morrilton 104 E. Railroad AveMorrilton, AR 72110 501-354-9793
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Mountain Home 1058 Highland Circle Suite 20Mountain Home, AR 72654 870-425-2386
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Mountain View 211 Blanchard AveMountain View, AR 72560 870-269-4070
Arkansas Department of Workforce Services 7648 Victory Blvd Suite BNewport, AR 72112 870-523-3641
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Pulaski County 324 W Pershing Blvd Suite 1North Little Rock, AR 72114 501-376-4119
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Paragould 1015 Linwood Drive Suite 4Paragould, AR 72450 870-236-8512
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Pine Bluff 1001 S Tennessee StreetPine Bluff, AR 71601 870-619-4803
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Nevada County 355 W 1st StPrescott, AR 71857 870-887-6626
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Rogers 100 North Dixieland Rd #B1-5Rogers, AR 72757-0999 479-636-4755
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Russellville 104 South RochesterPO Box 727Russellville, AR 72801 479-968-2784
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Searcy 501 West Arch StreetPO Box 248Searcy, AR 72145-0248 501-268-8601
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Texarkana 1702 Hampton RdTexarkana, AR 75503 870-216-4011
Arkansas Unemployment Office – Van Buren 1500 East Main StreetVan Buren, AR 72956 479-474-7061
Crawford County Adult Education Center 605 Alma Blvd CircleVan Buren, AR 72956 479-471-0019
Arkansas Unemployment Office – West Memphis 2003 W BroadwayWest Memphis, AR 72301 870-735-6730
Post Views: 26