Hawaii Layoff Resources
If you have been laid off in Hawaii, these resources can help you apply for unemployment, understand layoff-notice rules, find health coverage, seek financial assistance, locate workforce services, and get reliable information about possible workplace problems.
Eligibility requirements vary by program. Use the links below to check current rules and apply through the responsible agency.
Unemployment Benefits and Filing
Hawaii Unemployment Insurance may provide temporary income if you lost work through no fault of your own. File claim certifications for each week you request benefits. Unless exempt, you must remain able and available for work and complete at least three work-search activities each week. Hawaii residents are automatically registered for work with HireNet Hawaii.
- Hawaii unemployment insurance
- File and manage a claim through HUI Claims
- Hawaii unemployment FAQ and work-search rules
- UI Call Center: 808-762-5752 or 833-901-2272
- HireNet Hawaii
Layoff-Notice Protections
Hawaii does not have a separate state mini-WARN law. Federal WARN may require advance notice for certain large layoffs or plant closings. Hawaii Rapid Response can connect affected workers with unemployment information, job-search help, and training services.
Health-Insurance Coverage
Losing job-based insurance usually creates a special enrollment opportunity. Compare HealthCare.gov coverage, Hawaii Med-QUEST, and COBRA before choosing.
Food, Cash, Childcare, Utility, and Local Assistance
SNAP and financial assistance are handled through Hawaii DHS, while Medicaid is handled through Med-QUEST. Childcare subsidies and LIHEAP may also be available. For local food, housing, utility, and other emergency help, use Aloha United Way 211.
- Hawaii SNAP
- Apply for food and financial assistance
- Child Care Connection Hawaii
- Hawaii LIHEAP
- Aloha United Way 211
- Dial 211 or call 877-275-6569
- HUD housing resources for Hawaii
Workforce and Reemployment Services
Hawaii American Job Centers provide no-cost employment and training services, including job-search assistance, résumé help, veteran services, computer access, and information about training programs.
Workplace Problems and Legal Help
Hawaii Wage Standards handles certain complaints involving minimum wage, overtime, unpaid wages, and illegal deductions. The Hawaii Civil Rights Commission handles employment discrimination under state law. A 2026 law expanded the HCRC filing period to one year for covered claims, applied prospectively as described by the Commission. Federal discrimination claims may also have separate EEOC deadlines.
- File a Wage Standards complaint
- Wage Standards Division: 808-586-8777
- Hawaii Civil Rights Commission
- HCRC filing information
- HCRC: 808-586-8636
- File an EEOC charge
Civil legal help
Last reviewed: August 2026