Division of Employment Security — 1-888-737-6924
+18887376924,,1,,2
Commas are ~1-second pauses. Automates the menu on every redial.
Weekly certifications and claim status can be managed online at des.nc.gov.
We auto-dial, navigate the menu, and call you when a live DES agent is on the line. Average connection: 27 minutes.
| Line | Phone Number | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Unemployment Insurance Claims | 1-888-737-6924 | M–F 8am–5pm ET |
| Employer Services | 1-877-723-3729 | M–F 8am–5pm ET |
| Fraud Hotline | 1-800-689-0280 | 24/7 |
| TTY (hearing impaired) | 711 | M–F 8am–5pm ET |
NC DES requires claimants to make at least three valid job contacts per week while collecting benefits. You must log these contacts in the NC Works system. Failure to complete the required job search activities can result in disqualification — if you have questions about what counts as a valid contact, call DES directly.
You have 30 calendar days from the mailing date of the determination to file an appeal. NC's 30-day window is standard, but appeal slots fill up — acting within the first two weeks is strongly recommended. Appeals can be filed online at des.nc.gov or by calling the claims center.