Navigating unemployment benefits in Hawaii requires understanding the state’s specific programs, eligibility criteria, and available resources. This guide provides a comprehensive overview to assist residents in accessing the support they need.
Understanding Hawaii’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) Program
Hawaii’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) program offers temporary financial assistance to individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. The program aims to partially replace lost wages and support individuals during their job search.
Key Features of Hawaii’s UI Program
- Weekly Benefit Amounts: In 2025, the maximum weekly benefit is $835, with a minimum of $5. (nolo.com)
- Duration of Benefits: Eligible individuals can receive benefits for up to 26 weeks. (nolo.com)
- Waiting Week: Hawaii imposes a one-week waiting period for unemployment benefits, which counts toward the benefit year but is unpaid. (nolo.com)
- Partial Unemployment and Earnings Rules: Individuals working part-time may still qualify for partial unemployment benefits. They can earn up to $150 per week without a reduction in benefits; earnings above this amount may lead to a reduction in benefits. (nolo.com)
- Employment History: Have earned sufficient wages during the base period, which is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before the claim.
- Job Separation: Be unemployed through no fault of their own, such as due to layoffs or business closures.
- Ability and Availability to Work: Be physically able to work and available for suitable employment.
- Active Job Search: Actively seek employment and be willing to accept suitable job offers.
- Create an Online Account: Visit the Hawaii Unemployment Insurance website and set up a user account.
- File an Initial Claim: Provide necessary personal and employment information to initiate your claim.
- File Weekly Certifications: After your initial claim, file weekly certifications to continue receiving benefits.
- Address: 830 Punchbowl St., Room 110, Honolulu, HI 96813
- Phone: (808) 586-8970
- Fax: (808) 586-8980
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 1990 Kinoole St., Ste 101, Hilo, HI 96720-5293
- Phone: (808) 974-4086
- Fax: (808) 974-4085
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 81-990 Halekii St., Room 2087, Kealakekua, HI 96750
- Phone: (808) 322-4822
- Fax: (808) 322-4828
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 54 South High St., Room 201, Wailuku, HI 96793
- Phone: (808) 984-8400
- Fax: (808) 984-8401
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 4370 Kukui Grove St., Ste 3-214, Lihue, HI 96766
- Phone: (808) 274-3056
- Fax: (808) 274-3059
- Email: [email protected]
- Eligibility: Individuals currently receiving unemployment benefits.
- Duration: Up to six months of subsidized job training.
- Support: On-the-job guidance, childcare coverage, health insurance, transportation, and housing assistance.
- Website: SEE Hawaii Work
- Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR): DLIR Unemployment Insurance
- Hawaii Unemployment Insurance Fact Book: Fact Book
- Governor Josh Green, M.D. | NEWS RELEASE: DLIR REVAMPS UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE TO IMPROVE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for unemployment benefits in Hawaii, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Application Process
Filing a Claim Online
Applicants can file for unemployment benefits online through the Hawaii Unemployment Insurance website. Claims can be submitted on weekdays from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and on weekends and holidays from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. (nolo.com)
Steps to File a Claim:
Contacting the UI Call Center
For assistance, the Hawaii Unemployment Insurance Call Center is available at (808) 762-5752 or (833) 901-2272. The center operates Monday through Friday, from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. (labor.hawaii.gov)
Language Assistance:
The Call Center offers support in multiple languages, including English, Cantonese, Ilocano, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. Callers needing language assistance will be connected to an interpreter at no cost. (labor.hawaii.gov)
Local Unemployment Offices
Hawaii has several unemployment offices across its islands to assist residents. Below are the contact details for each office:
Oahu Claims Office
Hilo Claims and Benefits
Kona Claims and Benefits
Maui Claims and Benefits
Kauai Claims and Benefits
Supporting Employment Empowerment (SEE) Hawaii Work Program
The SEE Hawaii Work program, managed by the Department of Human Services, offers subsidized job training for individuals receiving unemployment benefits. This program aims to enhance employability and facilitate a smoother transition back into the workforce. (humanservices.hawaii.gov)
Program Highlights:
Contact Information:
Additional Resources
For more detailed information on unemployment benefits and services in Hawaii, consider visiting the following resources:
Conclusion
Understanding and navigating Hawaii’s unemployment benefits and services can be complex, but with the right information and resources, individuals can access the support they need during periods of unemployment. By utilizing the available programs and adhering to the application processes, residents can work towards reemployment and financial stability.