How to File for Unemployment in Montana
Updated July 2026
Quick Answer
In Montana, unemployment claims are filed through Unemployment Insurance Division. Most initial claims are processed within two to three weeks, though it can take longer if there's an issue with your claim.
Montana's Unemployment Insurance Division moved off its old MontanaWorks system in October 2023 to a new UI Claimant Center that uses Okta for sign-in, and routes anyone needing help to a single statewide Claims Center phone line rather than local offices.
What You'll Need
- Social Security number
- Driver's license or state ID
- Employment history for the last 18 months (employer name, address, dates, separation reason)
- Bank account and routing number for direct deposit
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1
Confirm you're eligible
Montana pays benefits to workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own and are actively looking for full-time work or approved training, as detailed in the state's Claimant Handbook.
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2
Have your Social Security number and work history ready
You must provide your SSN to file at all — by federal Privacy Act rules the agency can only use it for unemployment purposes — plus details on your employers from the last 18 months.
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3
File through the UI Claimant Center
Go to uiclaimant.mt.gov and sign in with Okta to submit your initial claim, request weekly payment, or reopen a prior claim — this system replaced the old MontanaWorks portal.
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4
Register with Job Service Montana
As part of staying eligible, register with your local Job Service Montana office, part of the state's workforce center network.
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5
Report your hours and earnings weekly
Keep filing your weekly payment requests through the UI Claimant Center and accurately report any hours worked and wages earned.
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6
Call the Claims Center if you're stuck
Reach the UI Claims Center at (406) 444-2545, or use Montana Relay 711 for TDD access.
File Your Claim
Compare Other States
Unemployment rules, benefit amounts, and filing steps are set state by state. These share Montana's census region — useful if you're moving, or comparing how another state runs the program.
Helpful Guides
Unemployment Eligibility Requirements: Who Qualifies
The three tests every state uses to decide unemployment eligibility, and the separation reasons that typically help or hurt your claim.
Learn more →How Unemployment Benefits Work
A plain-English overview of how the joint federal-state unemployment insurance system works, from filing your first claim to your last payment.
Learn more →Unemployment Benefits for Self-Employed and Gig Workers
Regular unemployment insurance is built around W-2 payroll taxes, which is why freelancers and gig workers usually do not qualify — here is what does apply.
Learn more →Partial Unemployment Benefits: Working Part-Time While on Unemployment
Taking part-time work does not automatically end your unemployment claim — most states let you keep a reduced payment if you report your earnings correctly.
Learn more →