Who Oversees Hawaii Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

The Unemployment Insurance (UI) Division of the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) administers the state’s unemployment insurance program. This division is responsible for processing claims, distributing benefits, and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. At the federal level, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration (ETA) provides overarching guidelines and oversight for state UI programs. Additionally, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) conducts independent audits and investigations to maintain the integrity of the UI program.

Hawaii Labor Department Office of Inspector General

How Can I Qualify for Unemployment Benefits in Hawaii?

To be eligible for unemployment benefits in Hawaii, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Monetary Eligibility: You must have earned sufficient wages during your base period, which is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before filing your claim. Specifically, you need to have been paid wages in at least two quarters of your base period and have total base period earnings of at least 26 times your weekly benefit amount.

    Hawaii Unemployment Info

  2. Reason for Unemployment: Your unemployment must be through no fault of your own. Acceptable reasons include layoffs due to lack of work or other economic reasons. If you were discharged for misconduct or voluntarily quit without good cause, you may be disqualified from receiving benefits.

    Hawaii Labor Department

  3. Availability and Ability to Work: You must be physically and mentally able to work, actively seeking employment, and willing to accept suitable work when offered.

How Much Will I Receive in Unemployment Benefits in Hawaii?

Your weekly benefit amount (WBA) in Hawaii is calculated by dividing your total wages in the highest-paid quarter of your base period by 21. For example, if you earned $10,500 in your highest quarter, your WBA would be $500 ($10,500 ÷ 21). The maximum WBA is subject to change annually; for the most current maximum and minimum benefit amounts, refer to the Hawaii DLIR website. Benefits are typically available for up to 26 weeks during a one-year benefit year.

Hawaii Unemployment Info

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

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

  1. File a Claim: Submit your initial claim online through the Hawaii Unemployment Insurance portal at huiclaims.hawaii.gov. Ensure you have your Social Security number, employment history for the past 18 months, and other pertinent information ready.

  2. Register for Work: Within seven days of filing your claim, register for work at HireNet Hawaii. This involves creating a profile and posting your resume online.

  3. File Weekly or Biweekly Claim Certifications: To receive benefits, you must file claim certifications as instructed, reporting any earnings and confirming your continued eligibility.

  4. Attend Required Appointments: You may be scheduled for mandatory workshops or interviews; attendance is necessary to maintain your benefits.

How Can I Manage My Unemployment Benefits in Hawaii?

Managing your unemployment benefits effectively involves:

  • Regular Claim Certifications: File your claim certifications on time, either weekly or biweekly, as directed. Delays can result in payment interruptions.

  • Accurate Reporting: Report all earnings, including part-time or temporary work. You can earn up to $150 per week without a reduction in benefits; earnings above this amount will reduce your benefit payment.

    Hawaii Labor Department

  • Work Search Requirements: Unless exempted, you must make at least three job contacts each week and keep a record of your job search activities.

  • Updating Information: Keep your contact information current and promptly report any changes in your employment status.

How Can I Appeal a Decision Regarding Hawaii Unemployment Benefits?

If you receive a determination denying benefits, you have the right to appeal. Appeals must be filed in writing within ten calendar days from the mailing date of the decision. You can submit your appeal online at huiclaims.hawaii.gov or mail it to your local claims office or directly to the Employment Security Appeals Referee Office (ESARO). A hearing will be scheduled where you can present evidence and testimony. If the appeal decision is unfavorable, you may further appeal to the Circuit Court.

Hawaii Labor Department

How Can I Report Unemployment Fraud in Hawaii?

To report suspected unemployment insurance fraud, contact the Hawaii UI Division via their contact form at https://labor.hawaii.gov/ui/contact-form or call the UI Call Center at (808) 762-5752 or toll-free at (833) 901-2272. Providing detailed information helps in investigating and preventing fraudulent activities.

Hawaii Labor Department

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

For assistance, you can reach the Hawaii UI Call Center at (808) 762-5752 or toll-free at (833) 901-2272. Alternatively, you can use the contact form available at https://labor.hawaii.gov/ui/contact-form. For in-person assistance, appointments can be scheduled through the UI Division’s website.

Hawaii Labor Department

What Happens if I Was Fired?

If you were fired from your job in Hawaii, your eligibility for unemployment benefits depends on the reason for your termination. The Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) distinguishes between different types of dismissals:

  1. Fired for Misconduct:

    • If you were fired due to misconduct, such as violating company policies, insubordination, or criminal activities, you may be disqualified from receiving unemployment benefits.
    • Misconduct that results in disqualification includes repeated tardiness, absenteeism, or failure to follow reasonable employer instructions.
    • However, if your actions were unintentional or due to circumstances beyond your control, you may still qualify.

  2. Fired Without Misconduct (Layoff or Downsizing):

    • If your employer terminated you due to budget cuts, workforce reductions, or other economic reasons unrelated to your performance, you are generally eligible for benefits.
    • You must still meet monetary and work search requirements to continue receiving benefits.

  3. Fired for Poor Performance:

    • If you were fired because you struggled to meet job expectations but did not engage in intentional misconduct, you may still qualify for unemployment benefits.
    • The state will review your employer’s statements and your response before making a determination.

If your claim is denied due to the reason for your dismissal, you have the right to file an appeal within 10 calendar days of receiving the denial notice. (Hawaii UI Handbook)

What Happens if I Quit My Job?

If you voluntarily quit your job, you are generally not eligible for unemployment benefits in Hawaii unless you can prove you left for a good cause related to your job. The state will carefully review your reason for quitting before making a decision. Here are common scenarios where you might still qualify:

  1. Quitting for Good Cause (Eligibility Possible):

    • Unsafe Working Conditions: If your workplace became hazardous and your employer failed to address the issue, you might qualify for benefits.
    • Harassment or Discrimination: If you experienced harassment, discrimination, or a hostile work environment and quitting was your last resort after reporting it, you may be eligible.
    • Medical Reasons: If you or an immediate family member had a serious medical condition that made it impossible for you to continue working, you may qualify. However, you must provide medical documentation.
    • Significant Pay Cut or Schedule Change: If your employer drastically changed your pay, hours, or job responsibilities in a way that made the position unsustainable, you might be eligible.

  2. Quitting Without Good Cause (Not Eligible):

    • If you voluntarily leave because you are dissatisfied with your job, want to relocate without a work-related reason, or decide to go back to school, you likely will not qualify for unemployment benefits.
    • If you quit without attempting to resolve the problem with your employer first, the state may also deny your claim.

Important Note:
If you quit your job but believe you had valid reasons, you should file a claim and provide documentation supporting your case. The Hawaii UI Division will investigate and determine your eligibility. (Hawaii UI Handbook)

Hawaii Unemployment Phone Number and Office Locations

Hawaii Unemployment  Office Hawaii  Unemployment Office Locations Hawaii  Unemployment Phone Number
Unemployment   Office – Hawaii Island 427 Kilauea Avenue Unit B10Hilo, HI 96720 808-935-6527
Unemployment Office – Oahu 1505 Dillingham Blvd, Room 110Honolulu, HI 96817 808-768-5701
Unemployment Office – Kahului 70 E. Kaahumanu Avenue B-9Kahului, HI 96732 808-270-5777
Unemployment Office – Molokai 55 Makaena Street Room 4Kaunakakai, HI 96748 808-553-1755
Unemployment Office – Kauai 4444 Rice Street Suite 302Lihue, HI 96766 808-274-3056

Claims Offices Contact

UNEMPLOYMENT CLAIMS & BENEFITS PHONE: FAX: EMAIL:
Oahu Claims Office 830 Punchbowl St., Rm 110 Honolulu, HI 96813 (808) 586-8970 (808) 586-8980 dlir.ui.oahu@hawaii.gov
Hilo Claims and Benefits 1990 Kinoole St., Ste 101 Hilo, HI 96720-5293 (808) 974-4086 (808) 974-4085 dlir.ui.hilo@hawaii.gov
Kona Claims and Benefits 81-990 Halekii St., Rm 2090 Kealakekua, HI 96750 (808) 322-4822 (808) 322-4828 dlir.ui.kona@hawaii.gov
Maui Claims and Benefits 54 South High St., Rm 201 Wailuku, HI 96793 (808) 984-8400 (808) 984-8444 dlir.ui.maui@hawaii.gov
Kauai Claims and Benefits 4370 Kukui Grove St., Ste 3-214 Lihue, HI  96766 (808) 274-3043 (808) 274-3046 dlir.ui.kauai@hawaii.gov

Special Activities Unit Contact

UNEMPLOYMENT CLAIMS & BENEFITS PHONE: FAX:
Benefit Overpayment (808) 586-8947 (808) 586-8958
Unemployment Abuse / Report Fraud (833) 901-2272 and(808) 762-5752 (808) 586-8958
Statement of Charges (808) 586-8951 (808) 586-8958

Employer Services

  • OAHU 830 Punchbowl St., Room 437 Honolulu, HI 96813
  • Email: dlir.ui.empsvc.tax@hawaii.gov
  • General Information Phone: (808) 586-8926; Fax:  (808) 586-8929
  • Registration:  (808) 586-8982
  • Unemployment Tax Information:  (808) 586-8915
  • Quarterly Wage:  (808) 586-8982
  • Audit Section:  (808) 586-9795

Employer Registration for SIDES E-Response and Electronic Low Earning Report Monitoring (ELERM)

Hilo Employer Services 1990 Kinoole St., Ste 101 Hilo, HI 96720-5293

Kona Employer Services 1990 Kinoole St., Ste 101 Hilo, HI 96720-5293

Maui Employer Services 54 South High St., Rm 201 Wailuku, HI 96793

Kauai Employer Services 4370 Kukui Grove St., Ste 3-214 Lihue, HI 96766

New Hire Reports (Administered by the Attorney General)  For more information go to: http://ag.hawaii.gov/csea/employer-information/

  • Phone: (808) 692-7029
  • Fax:  (808) 692-7001
  • Email: ag@hawaii.gov
Post Views: 23