When Does Nevada Unemployment Pay Benefits?

Unemployment insurance provides temporary financial assistance to eligible individuals who are unemployed through no fault of their own. It offers a partial replacement of lost wages, helping claimants manage their finances while seeking new employment. In Nevada, the Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation (DETR) administers these benefits. Employers in Nevada fund these benefits through unemployment taxes paid on employee wages.

Initial Payment Process and Timeline

The process for receiving unemployment benefits begins with submitting an application. DETR assesses both monetary and non-monetary eligibility requirements. Monetary eligibility relies on earnings during a defined “base period,” which is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before the claim was filed. Claimants must have earned a minimum amount, including at least $400 in their highest-earning quarter.

Non-monetary eligibility involves verifying the reason for unemployment, ensuring it was not due to the claimant’s fault, and confirming their ability and availability to work. Identity verification is a key step, and claimants may need to provide documentation. A one-week waiting period is generally required before benefits can be paid, though this period has been waived at times. After eligibility issues are resolved, it typically takes two to three weeks from the initial claim filing date to receive the first payment.

Ongoing Payment Schedule and Delivery

Once eligibility is established and the first payment issued, unemployment benefits are disbursed weekly. Claimants receive payments through direct deposit or a state-issued debit card. The Way2Go Card is the prepaid debit card used for unemployment insurance payments in Nevada. This card allows for purchases, cash withdrawals, and can be used anywhere debit MasterCards are accepted.

For those who prefer direct deposit, funds can be transferred from the Way2Go Card to a personal checking or savings account. After a successful weekly certification is completed and approved, payments are processed and deposited within 48 to 72 hours to the chosen payment method. A short verification process may occur before the first direct deposit begins.

Weekly Certification for Continued Payments

To continue receiving unemployment benefits, claimants must complete a weekly certification. This mandatory process confirms ongoing eligibility and adherence to program requirements. During weekly certification, claimants must report any gross earnings for the week in which the work was performed. They must also confirm availability for work and document job search efforts.

Claimants are required to conduct various work search activities each week, maintaining a record of these efforts. These activities can include applying for jobs, networking, or engaging in retraining. Weekly certifications can be submitted through the Claimant Self-Service (CSS) online portal. Failure to submit timely and accurate weekly certifications, or to meet work search requirements, can result in delays or denial of benefit payments.