What Disqualifies You from Unemployment in Maryland—And What Doesn't

Maryland’s unemployment benefits have provided crucial financial support for many residents during economic downturns. However, not everyone qualifies, and understanding the eligibility requirements is essential before you apply. This comprehensive guide explains the key criteria, the application process, and what factors might prevent you from receiving benefits.

Eligibility Requirements: What You Need to Qualify

To receive unemployment compensation in Maryland, you must satisfy three core conditions. First, your job loss must be involuntary—meaning you were laid off, had your hours drastically cut, or faced similar circumstances beyond your control. Second, you need to demonstrate you can work and are actively searching for employment (though this requirement was temporarily waived during the pandemic period). Third, your historical earnings must meet Maryland’s income thresholds.

The state evaluates your earnings during a base period, which consists of the first four of the last five completed quarters. If you’re applying in March, this covers October 2018 through September 2019. For April applications, the base period runs January through December 2019. You must have earned at least $1,176 in your highest-earning quarter and a minimum of 1.5 times that amount spread across other quarters. For example, if your top quarter generated $1,800, you’ll need to show at least $2,700 in combined earnings across two quarters. An alternate base period using the four most recent quarters is available if you don’t qualify under the standard calculation.

What Disqualifies You from Unemployment in Maryland

Understanding what doesn’t qualify you is just as important as knowing what does. You won’t be eligible if you voluntarily quit your job without good cause, were fired for misconduct, or refuse suitable work. Additionally, if your earnings fall below Maryland’s thresholds during the base period, you cannot claim benefits regardless of other circumstances. Self-employed individuals typically don’t qualify unless they meet specific criteria. Recent immigrants without proper work authorization also face restrictions, and individuals still employed part-time may have reduced or disqualified benefits if earnings exceed certain limits.

The Application Process

Getting started is straightforward. Visit the Maryland Department of Labor website and create an account. Due to high application volume, the state asks filers to apply according to their last name schedule: Monday (A–F), Tuesday (G–N), Wednesday (O–Z), with phone and online options available Thursday through Sunday.

Prepare these documents before you apply:

• Social Security number or Alien Registration Number
• Current address and phone number
• Dependent information (names, birthdates, Social Security numbers) if applicable
• Complete employment history from the past 18 months, including employer names, addresses, and contact information

After establishing your account, you’ll need to file weekly claim certifications to continue receiving payments. Maryland currently offers benefits via debit card or mailed check rather than direct deposit.

Benefit Amounts and Duration

Maryland unemployment benefits range from a minimum of $50 per week to a maximum of $430 per week, calculated based on your complete base period earnings. You can add $8 per dependent per week for up to five eligible dependents (biological, adopted, or stepchildren under 16 that you support), though your total cannot exceed $430 weekly.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act temporarily supplemented these payments with an additional $600 per week through mid-2020, stacked on top of Maryland’s regular maximum. Standard unemployment coverage extends for up to 26 weeks, with potential extension of an additional 13 weeks under federal programs.

If Your Claim Is Denied

A denial isn’t necessarily the end of your options. You have 15 calendar days from your Notice of Benefit Determination to file a written appeal. The notice itself will include detailed instructions on how to submit your request and what information to include.

For workers navigating financial uncertainty, Maryland’s unemployment system remains an important safety net—if you meet the qualifications and avoid the factors that disqualify you from unemployment in Maryland.