How to file for unemployment
Last updated: August 21, 2026
Applies to: US W-2 employees. Independent contractors are generally not eligible for unemployment insurance. Canadian T4 employees apply for Employment Insurance (EI) through Service Canada, not to a US state agency.
Summary: Unemployment benefits are run by your state, not by Ascen. If your employment ends and you're out of work, you file a claim directly with your state's unemployment agency. This article explains where to file, what to have ready, and where Ascen fits in (we're the employer of record listed on your claim).
If you're a W-2 employee and you lose work through no fault of your own, you may be able to receive temporary unemployment insurance payments while you look for your next job. Here's how it works.
Unemployment is filed with your state, not with Ascen
Each state runs its own unemployment program, sets its own eligibility rules, and pays its own benefits. That means:
You file your claim directly with your state's unemployment agency — usually online.
Ascen does not decide whether you qualify or how much you receive. The state makes those decisions under its own laws.
Start here to find your state's program:
CareerOneStop — find your state's unemployment office (a DOL-sponsored resource)
Generally, you should file in the state where you worked. If you worked in more than one state, or you worked in a different state than where you live, your state agency can tell you where to file.
Where Ascen fits in
Because you are employed through Ascen as your employer of record, Ascen (Ascen Workforce, LLC) is the employer listed on your unemployment claim. When you file, the state may contact Ascen to confirm details about your employment and why your work ended. This is a normal part of the process.
To help things go smoothly, keep any documents about your work and its ending (for example, your assignment details and pay stubs).
What to have ready when you file
States differ, but you'll typically need:
Your Social Security number and contact information.
Your employer information — the employer of record on your claim is Ascen Workforce, LLC. Your pay stubs and W-2 show the employer details the state will ask for.
Your dates of work and approximate earnings.
The reason your work ended.
What generally affects eligibility
Eligibility is decided by your state under its own law, but a few common principles apply broadly:
Laid off / employment ended for lack of work: Workers who lose work through no fault of their own are generally the core group unemployment is designed for.
Reduced hours or a furlough: Some states offer partial benefits if your hours or pay are cut involuntarily. Waiting periods and rules vary by state.
Voluntarily quitting: Quitting on your own usually does not qualify — though states recognize some "good cause" exceptions.
Ended for misconduct: Being let go for a policy or rule violation can affect eligibility.
Because only your state can make the determination, don't assume you do or don't qualify — file and let the agency decide.
After an assignment ends — check for more work first
The end of one assignment does not always mean your employment with Ascen has ended. Before filing, confirm whether another assignment is available. If you are unsure about your current work status or next steps, contact support@ascen.com.
Employment verification
If your state agency (or anyone else) asks you to verify your employment with Ascen, see "Employment Verification Request" or contact support@ascen.com.
Helpful references
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. Unemployment eligibility and benefit amounts are set by each state and change over time. Ascen cannot determine your eligibility. For the rules that apply to you, contact your state's unemployment agency using the links above.