Since being unemployed is already a hassle, make sure that finding the right unemployment office is not. You want the right help, yes, but do not waste time and money trying to find it. Use one or more of the following resources to find a location nearest you.
#1 Yellow Pages
The yellow pages are one of the first places where you look to find a local business. In the 1990s and earlier, people searched for individuals and businesses in thick yellow phone books. Nowadays, they have access to online yellow pages that contain thousands of pages of information.
Convenience is the main benefit of using the yellow pages. You type in your address and receive results that are close to your location. Then, type in the keyword “unemployment office” and review the results. An online yellow pages listing includes:
- the company’s name
- description
- images
- a link to the website
The section for customer reviews is not found in newspapers or online classified ads. The map includes a section to type in your location and receive driving directions. Last, the website link sends you directly to the source of the information you need.
#2 Search Engines
The next place to look is the search engine. Start by searching one of the major engines, such as Google, Bing or Yahoo. Use relevant search keywords instead of just “unemployment office.” Include the name of your city or community without adding any unnecessary words.
Finding an unemployment office through the search engine is highly effective. Compared to the yellow pages, you get results for dozens of offices that are not close by. Review the first few pages of results to find the office nearest you.
Social Service Organizations
Every city, state or community has organizations that are devoted to social services. These groups include charities, women’s shelters, ministries and more. In your community, find at least one social service agency that provides employment services and has access to a nearby unemployment office. It takes one phone call to contact an agency and ask for information.
#3 Government Agencies
Government agencies are required to serve low-income and unemployed communities. From courthouses to multiservice centers, these agencies are designed to serve the low-income communities. Call, email or visit an agency in person to ask about local unemployment services.
#4 Helplines
In addition to the Internet, the phone is another source of quick information. Focus more energy on finding unemployment services and not on driving halfway across town. A typical helpline is open 24 hours, 7 days a week. It’s recommended for anyone who has a bad Internet connection or cannot temporarily access the computer.
Type in a basic number like 211 or 411 and get connected to an operator immediately. Find a nearby business by simply typing into the keypad. Another option is to speak to a live person for personalized assistance.
Unemployment is a long, slow process from start to finish. In addition to the financial and emotional struggles, you have the long lines and waits at the unemployment office. It’s important that you find the closest and most convenient office. Review all of the resources that you have to find the ideal location.