Social Security Card

• The IDES needs your Social Security number to file an unemployment claim. With your Social Security number, the IDES can view your job history, past unemployment benefits and any other government benefits you may have received. Each time you log on to the unemployment website or access the telephone automated system, you'll have to provide your Social Security number for reference.
  
  

Past Employment Information

• The amount you receive from Illinois unemployment benefits and how long you can receive them is calculated from your base period wages. Your base period is the first four of the past five calendar quarters before you apply for unemployment. At most, you'll need 18 months of employer information. You'll need the name of the employer and his mailing address. If you have payment stubs from an employer, the information should appear on the paperwork.
  
  

Dismissal Letter

• In some cases, your employer may give you a dismissal letter or memo that details the reasons for your job dismissal. If you have one, it can be used as evidence that your job dismissal wasn't your fault and that you qualify for benefits. Take it with you to apply for benefits and the staff will make a photo copy to put in your file in case any question of your eligibility is raised.
  
  

A Canceled Check

• Illinois pays unemployment benefits either by prepaid debit card or direct deposit into your account. You can setup your unemployment payments to go directly into you account during your application process by providing the routing and account number. This information is along the bottom of your personal checks. If you want to deposit directly into a savings account, you may have to contact your bank for the routing and account numbers.