How to File for Unemployment in Oregon
Oregon splits the process cleanly into two separate filings — an initial claim you submit once per benefit year through the Frances Online system, and a weekly claim you file every single week after that. Miss the second part and you won't see a payment, even if your initial claim was approved.
This site is an independent, non-government unemployment directory and isn't affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Department of Labor, any state workforce agency, or other official entity. Always verify details directly with the official agency before visiting or applying.
What You'll Need
- Social Security number
- Birthdate and contact information
- USCIS, A-number, or I-94 number if not a citizen or COFA Islander
- 18-month employer history with addresses and phone numbers
- Bank account and routing number for direct deposit
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1
Collect your details before you start
You'll need your Social Security number, birthdate, and complete 18-month work history including each employer's address and phone number.
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2
File your initial claim through Frances Online
Apply at frances.oregon.gov, or call 1-877-345-3484 if you'd rather file by phone in your preferred language. Double-check every entry — Oregon won't let you edit a submitted claim.
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3
File your first weekly claim the following Sunday
This first weekly claim satisfies Oregon's mandatory one-week waiting period, which pays nothing but still has to be claimed to count.
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4
Keep filing a weekly claim every week
Weeks run Sunday through Saturday, and you must claim each one — even while you're still waiting to hear if your initial claim was approved.
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5
Document your job search
Most claimants must complete five work-search activities a week, including at least two direct employer contacts, and may need to register with iMatchSkills.
File Your Claim
Compare Other States
Unemployment rules, benefit amounts, and filing steps are set state by state. These share Oregon'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 →