Can You Get Unemployment While on Social Security? Here’s How

You just lost your job. You’re already collecting Social Security benefits. Can you get unemployment too?

The answer is yes in most cases. You can collect both types of benefits at once.

These two programs come from completely different sources. Receiving one does not disqualify you from applying for the other.

Can You Collect Unemployment and Social Security Together?

Yes, in almost every state. Workers can collect unemployment insurance while drawing Social Security benefits.

You don’t have to wait to receive one before filing for the other. You can file for both benefits simultaneously.

Each benefit comes from a different agency. Processing times and payment schedules will vary between the two programs.

Minnesota Has Different Rules

Minnesota is the only exception to this rule. Some workers in Minnesota must reduce their unemployment benefits by up to 50% of their Social Security income.

The requirement depends on when you started receiving Social Security. The time between that date and your unemployment filing matters too.

Visit the Minnesota Department of Revenue website for specific details.

How to Apply for Unemployment Benefits

Each state manages its own unemployment insurance program. Rules and processes vary by location.

Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website to find your state’s information.

Most states offer online applications you can complete from home. Some states also allow phone or in-person applications at local unemployment offices.

After your initial application, you’ll file weekly or bi-weekly claims. Many states require you to attend job search workshops or counseling sessions.

Check your state’s specific requirements before you apply.

Who Qualifies for Unemployment Benefits?

You must have lost your job through no fault of your own. You need to be able to work and available for work.

You must actively seek employment to maintain eligibility.

Part-time workers can still qualify for partial benefits. Your hours and earnings affect your benefit amount.

Your work history determines your benefit amount and duration. Longer, higher-paying job histories typically mean larger benefits.

If you’re managing debt while unemployed, our partner Cambridge Credit Counseling can help you create a payment plan that fits your reduced income.

How to Apply for Social Security Benefits

The U.S. Social Security Administration operates this federal program. You can apply for benefits online at the SSA website.

Online applications are the fastest and most convenient option.

Create an account on the SSA website to start. You’ll need your Social Security number, birth certificate, and detailed work history.

Choose the benefit type during your application. Options include retirement, disability, or survivors benefits.

The SSA will review your information after submission. They may contact you for additional documentation.

Track your application status online through your SSA account.

Who Qualifies for Social Security Benefits?

You need at least 40 quarters of work, which equals 10 years. A quarter is a three-month period where you earned at least $1,810 (as of 2025).

You must reach the appropriate retirement age. Your birth year determines your full retirement age.

Waiting until full retirement age gets you the full benefit amount.

You can start collecting at age 62, but your monthly benefit drops by about 25% permanently. Delaying past full retirement age increases your monthly payment through delayed retirement credits.

How Unemployment Benefits Affect Social Security

Collecting unemployment typically doesn’t affect your Social Security amount. Unemployment benefits count as unearned income, not earned income.

If you take Social Security at 62 while still working, earned income can reduce your benefit. Unemployment benefits don’t trigger this reduction.

Minnesota remains the only state that offsets unemployment benefits for Social Security recipients. Your unemployment may be reduced by half your Social Security income.

How Retirement Payments Affect Unemployment

Income from qualified retirement plans, annuities, or IRAs can reduce unemployment compensation in many states.

Distributions from 401(k) plans or monthly pension payments may offset your unemployment benefits.

Contact your state unemployment office for specific rules. Some states reduce unemployment benefits when you have retirement income. Others, like California, exempt retirement income.

You cannot make IRA contributions using unemployment benefits. The IRS doesn’t consider unemployment as earned income.

How Working Again Affects Social Security

Finding a job after filing early for Social Security can reduce your benefits. Your earnings may reduce retirement benefits until you reach full retirement age.

For 2025, benefits decrease by $1 for every $2 earned over $23,400 annually. You must be under full retirement age for the entire year.

The year you reach full retirement age, the limit increases to $62,160. The reduction changes to $1 for every $3 earned over this amount.

No earnings limit exists once you reach full retirement age. Your benefits won’t be reduced regardless of income.

Collecting Unemployment and Social Security Disability Together

You might think collecting both is impossible, but some people qualify. Cases are rare because eligibility rules differ significantly.

Unemployment requires you to work and actively seek employment. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people unable to work due to long-term or permanent disability.

Most people don’t qualify for both programs simultaneously.

How the Social Security Administration Views Dual Applications

Applying for SSDI while receiving unemployment triggers closer scrutiny. The Social Security Administration will examine your application carefully.

You must prove no conflict exists between your disability claim and job search. Some people can work part-time in different roles while qualifying as disabled under SSA rules.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) follows similar principles but has additional complications. SSI is a need-based program with strict income and resource limits.

Unemployment income could lower your SSI benefit or disqualify you completely. Medical eligibility alone isn’t enough for SSI.

Consider reaching out to a qualified disability attorney or local legal aid organization. They can explain your options based on your specific situation.