To promote economic growth and stability, the VEC offers many services that can assist the unemployed, employers, and veterans.
For the Unemployed
If you are unemployed through no fault of your own, you can use the VEC to:
- File a new claim, reopen a claim, or file a partial claim
- Find the latest announcements regarding Virginia unemployment benefits
- Access forms for filing appeals
- Watch helpful videos explaining UI qualification and benefits
- Register for job services
For Employers
Employers have several responsibilities for unemployment insurance, and can use our services to:
- Register a business, files quarterly reports, and manage a business account through Employer Self Service (ESS)
- Access important forms and publications
- Participate in the State Information Data Exchange (SIDES) program
- Post job openings online or through Virginia Works Offices
- Search for job candidates
- Receive Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) information
- Access On-the-Job-Training opportunities through the Trade Act program
NEED IN-PERSON ASSISTANCE?
Virginia Works Offices are located across the Commonwealth with professional staff who can assist with basic unemployment insurance benefits questions, employment searches, and other employment issues. Access to computers and fax machines are also available to job seekers.
For Employers Looking to Hire a Veteran
The Commonwealth of Virginia, the VEC, and Virginia Works are committed to helping transitioning military, National Guard, Reserve Component Members, and veterans be productive in the civilian workforce.
Employers can quickly find a veteran to hire through Virginia Workforce Connection. Remember to:
- Select "Yes" for "Veteran" when entering your search criteria
- Register with Virginia Workforce Connection to access full search and contact information
For Veterans
Veterans are eligible for job referrals, job training, and job placement assistance through the VEC. Veterans may access these services through any Virginia Works office.
Veterans can also contact Virginia Works for more information at veteran.services@virginiaworks.gov.
VEC VS. VIRGINIA WORKS VS. WORKFORCE CONNECTION
The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) administers the unemployment insurance program. Virginia Works is the state agency that offers the resources, assistance, and training to job seekers to support their reemployment or new career path. Virginia Works also provides recruiting solutions for employers and can assist with job fairs.
Workforce Connection is a tool for customers of VEC and Virginia Works to find jobs and explore the labor market. VEC customers receiving unemployment benefits are required to register with Workforce Connection to access job services so they can become reemployed. Employers can also use Workforce Connection to search for job candidates. Workforce Connection is managed by Virginia Works.
Rapid Response helps companies and workers affected by layoffs and plant closings by quickly coordinating services and support. Rapid Response teams work with employers and employee representatives to use available public and private resources to minimize disruptions associated with job loss. Rapid Response offers tailored services to fit company needs and schedules, including virtual support to help with the transition.
All Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) letters and requests for Rapid Response assistance should be directed to Malissa Short, Virginia Rapid Response Program Manager, at malissa.short@virginiaworks.gov
View the latest closing and layoff notices reported to the Virginia Workforce Network’s Rapid Response program.
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
For information on reasonable accommodations, please contact Brenda Henderson at Brenda.Henderson@vec.virginia.gov or by phone at (804) 718-5209.
Virginia Relay enables people who are deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf/Blind, or speech disabled to communicate by TTY (text telephone). Individuals who need this service can access the Virginia Relay Center by dialing 711 or (800) 828-1140.
Do you prefer to speak another language?
For information on language translation services, please contact Lorna Battles, Language Access Coordinator at Ma.Lorna.Battles@virginiaworks.gov, or by phone at (804) 584-9841 (VA Relay 711).
