If I Am Getting out of the Military, Can I Draw Unemployment in Colorado?

Unemployment for Ex-Servicemembers

Military service members receive unemployment benefits in their state of residence under the U.S. Department of Labor's Unemployment Compensation for Ex-servicemembers (UCX). Eligibility requirements for service members includes active duty service and an honorable discharge. The military pays for the benefits, but the service member applies for benefits and follows the procedures mandated by the state of Colorado.

You should apply for unemployment as soon as possible after discharge as you receive benefits from the time of application, not retroactively to the time of discharge. You submit your application online on the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) website (see Resources 1) or by calling 800-388-5515. You will also have to register at a local employment office at the time of application.

You will not receive benefits for the first week after your application. After the first week, you must call CUBLine at 888-550-2800 or go online to the CDLE website (see Resources 1) to file your weekly certification and to claim benefits. Each week you certify that you are physically able and available to work full-time and that you are actively searching for suitable employment. In addition, you must report any income from part-time work or self-employment. This will not necessarily disqualify you from Colorado unemployment benefits, but it may reduce your benefit amount.

CDLE calculates unemployment benefits based on your wages during your base period during the previous year. Colorado issues benefits by either direct deposit into your personal bank account or onto a state-issued Colorado Automated Payment (CAP) debit card. When you find new employment, simply stop filing your weekly claim to stop your unemployment benefits.