Wisconsin

Wisconsin Layoff Resources

If you have been laid off in Wisconsin, 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

Wisconsin Unemployment Insurance may provide temporary income if you lost work through no fault of your own. File a weekly claim certification for every week you want benefits and report all earnings. Unless DWD gives you a waiver, you must complete at least four valid work-search actions each week and keep proof for one year. If DWD requires you to register for work, complete your Job Center of Wisconsin registration within 14 days of your initial claim.

Layoff-Notice Protections

Wisconsin’s Business Closing and Mass Layoff Law is broader than federal WARN. With certain exceptions, businesses employing 50 or more people in Wisconsin must provide 60 days’ written notice before a covered closing or mass layoff. A business closing can trigger notice when 25 or more employees are affected; mass-layoff thresholds differ. Employers must comply with both state and federal law when both apply.

Health-Insurance Coverage

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

Food, Cash, Childcare, Utility, and Local Assistance

ACCESS Wisconsin is the main starting point for FoodShare, Medicaid, BadgerCare Plus, and other benefits. Wisconsin Shares and energy assistance have additional program rules. For local food, housing, utility, and emergency help, use Wisconsin 211.

Workforce and Reemployment Services

Wisconsin Job 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

Wisconsin DWD Equal Rights Division handles certain unpaid-wage claims and state labor-law complaints. Wage claims generally must be filed within two years after the wages were due. Employment-discrimination complaints under Wisconsin law generally must be filed within 300 days. The same division also accepts complaints under Wisconsin’s Business Closing and Mass Layoff Law, generally within 300 days of the closing or mass layoff.

Civil legal help

Last Reviewed: August 2026