Unemployment insurance benefits for former federal civilian employees are provided under the Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE) Program.

The UCFE program is administered by state agencies, according to federal law. Like regular state unemployment insurance claims, the state will process applications, determine eligibility, and pay benefits to eligible individuals.

What information you may need before applying.

When you apply for UCFE benefits, the state typically asks for information about your recent work history.

This generally includes:

• Information to verify your identity,
• Name and address of your most recent federal employer,
• Dates of employment,
• Reason for separation,
• A copy of your SF-8, Notice to Federal Employee About Unemployment Insurance, and
• A copy of your SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action to establish the UCFE claim.

Note: The SF-8 and the SF-50 are provided by your federal employer upon separation.

Providing complete and accurate information helps prevent delays in processing your claim.

Important to know

• All individuals have the right to apply for unemployment insurance benefits.
• Eligibility is determined by the state agency after you apply.
• The unemployment.gov website does not determine eligibility for benefits.
• This Fact Sheet provides general information about applying for benefits under the UCFE Program.