Ohio

Ohio Layoff Resources

If you have been laid off in Ohio, start here for unemployment, health coverage, basic-needs assistance, workforce services, and help with possible workplace problems.

Eligibility varies by program, so use the official links below for current rules and applications.

Unemployment Benefits and Filing

Ohio Unemployment Insurance may provide temporary income if you lost work through no fault of your own. File a weekly claim for every week you want benefits, report all work and earnings, and complete the work-search and reemployment requirements shown in your claim unless exempt.

Layoff-Notice Protections

Ohio law now expressly requires employers to comply with federal WARN and uses the federal WARN standards rather than creating broader state thresholds. Federal WARN generally requires 60 days’ notice before certain large plant closings or mass layoffs. Ohio also has state reporting requirements connected with larger layoffs, and Rapid Response services may be available.

Health-Insurance Coverage

Losing job-based insurance usually creates a special enrollment opportunity. Compare HealthCare.gov coverage, Ohio Medicaid, and COBRA before choosing.

Food, Cash, Childcare, Utility, and Local Assistance

Ohio Benefits is a main starting point for SNAP, Medicaid, cash assistance, and other benefits. Publicly Funded Child Care and energy assistance have additional program rules. For local food, housing, utility, transportation, and emergency help, use Ohio 211.

Workforce and Reemployment Services

OhioMeansJobs Centers provide no-cost employment and training services, including résumé help, career guidance, veteran services, computer access, and information about training assistance.

Workplace Problems and Legal Help

The Ohio Department of Commerce handles certain minimum-wage, overtime, prevailing-wage, and other wage complaints. Employment-discrimination charges under Ohio law generally must be filed with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission within two years, although federal deadlines can be shorter.

Civil legal help

Last Reviewed: August 2026