When Does Unemployment Pay in Ohio?

Unemployment benefits in Ohio offer temporary financial assistance to eligible individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. This program, administered by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), is primarily funded by employer contributions. These benefits provide a financial bridge, replacing a portion of lost wages, while claimants seek new employment opportunities.

Initial Payment Timeline

Individuals should file for unemployment benefits as soon as possible, as the application becomes effective the week it is filed. The initial payment process involves claim processing, eligibility determination, and identity verification by the ODJFS. For claims filed in 2025, claimants must have worked at least 20 weeks in a “base period” and earned an average of at least $338 per week. The “base period” refers to the earliest four of the five complete calendar quarters before the claim was filed.

Ohio law includes a mandatory waiting week, meaning no benefits are paid for the first week a claimant is eligible. This waiting week begins once the initial claim is filed and all eligibility requirements are met. After eligibility is determined and the first weekly claim is filed, initial payment processing begins. While the ODJFS processes claims, it can take at least three weeks from the initial filing date for the first payment to be issued, especially during periods of high claim volume.

Ongoing Payment Schedule

After the initial claim is processed and approved, claimants must maintain eligibility to receive ongoing unemployment payments. Individuals are required to file weekly claims with the ODJFS. These weekly claims confirm continued eligibility for benefits. Payments are issued weekly, processed shortly after a successful weekly claim submission.

Claimants must report at least two work search activities each week. This includes documenting efforts to find new employment, such as submitting applications or attending job interviews. Claimants must also certify they are able and available for work during each week they claim benefits. Failure to meet these weekly filing and activity requirements can result in delays or stopping payments.

Common Causes for Payment Delays

Several factors can cause delays in receiving unemployment payments in Ohio. Issues with the initial application, such as incomplete or inaccurate information, are common. Identity verification is a mandatory step, and delays can occur if there are discrepancies or additional documentation is required. Claimants typically have up to seven days to provide any requested identity verification documents.

Employer disputes also lead to payment delays. If a former employer challenges the unemployment claim, the ODJFS must investigate, which can prolong eligibility determination. Should a claim be denied, the claimant has the right to appeal, but the appeal process adds to the timeline for receiving benefits. Appeals must be filed within 21 days from the date the denial notice was mailed.

Non-compliance with ongoing requirements, such as failing to report work search activities or earned wages, can result in payment interruptions. Technical issues within the unemployment system or fraudulent activity attempts can also contribute to delays.

Receiving Funds and Checking Status

Unemployment benefits in Ohio are disbursed through two primary methods: direct deposit into a personal bank account or via a U.S. Bank ReliaCard, which is a prepaid debit card. For direct deposit, the bank account must be with a financial institution that has a physical office in Ohio. Once a claim is approved, funds are typically deposited within a few business days. For the U.S. Bank ReliaCard, the card may be mailed to the claimant before any funds are loaded. Payments are generally loaded onto the ReliaCard within two to three business days after approval.

Claimants can monitor their claim and payment status through the ODJFS online portal. The ODJFS also provides a contact number (1-877-644-6562) to inquire about claim status.