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How the South Carolina Employment Security Commission Works

By Constance Obi · Culture & Recreation Writer

What the South Carolina Employment Security Commission does

The South Carolina Employment Security Commission (SCES) is the state agency that handles unemployment insurance claims, job placement services, and labor market information. When you lose a job through no fault of your own, SCES processes your claim and determines whether you meet the requirements for weekly benefits. The agency also runs WorkSC, a free job-matching system where employers post openings and job seekers can upload resumes.

SCES operates regional offices across the state where you can meet with career counselors, use computers to search for jobs, and attend workshops on resume writing and interview skills. The agency maintains labor market data that shows which industries are hiring in your area and what skills employers are looking for. If you are receiving unemployment benefits, SCES may require you to document your job search activity each week.

Key Takeaways

  • SCES processes unemployment insurance claims and determines weekly benefit amounts based on your prior earnings and the reason you left your job.
  • You can file an unemployment claim online through the SCES website, by phone, or in person at a regional office.
  • WorkSC is a free job board run by SCES where you can search positions by location, industry, and job title without paying a fee.
  • Regional SCES offices offer free career counseling, resume reviews, and job search workshops to help you find work faster.
  • If your claim is denied, you have the right to request a hearing and present evidence about why you should receive benefits.

Filing an unemployment claim with SCES

You can file your unemployment claim online at the SCES website, which is the fastest method. You will need your Social Security number, driver's license or ID number, and information about your most recent employer—including the company name, address, phone number, and the dates you worked there. The online system asks why you are no longer employed and whether you quit, were laid off, or were fired. Answer these questions accurately, as your response determines whether you meet the basic requirements for benefits.

If you prefer to file by phone, call the SCES Unemployment Insurance Division during business hours. You can also visit a regional SCES office in person, though this typically takes longer than filing online. After you submit your claim, SCES sends a notice to your former employer asking them to confirm the information you provided. Your employer may dispute your claim if they believe you were fired for misconduct or quit without good cause. This is normal and does not mean your claim will be denied.

SCES processes most claims within two to three weeks. During this time, you should continue looking for work and keep records of the jobs you contacted. Once your claim is approved, you will receive a debit card in the mail that SCES loads with your weekly benefit amount. You must file a weekly claim to continue receiving benefits—SCES will tell you the day and time you need to file each week.

Understanding unemployment benefit amounts and duration

Your weekly benefit amount is based on your earnings during a specific 12-month period before you filed your claim. SCES divides your total earnings by 52 weeks and pays you a percentage of that average, up to a maximum amount that changes each year. If you earned very little or worked for only a short time, you may not meet the minimum earnings requirement and your claim will be denied.

The length of time you can receive benefits depends on the unemployment rate in South Carolina. During periods of high unemployment, you may be able to collect for up to 26 weeks. When unemployment is lower, the duration may be shorter. SCES will tell you the maximum number of weeks you are may have access to to receive when your claim is approved. Once you exhaust your benefits, you must wait until a new benefit year begins to file again, even if you are still unemployed.

Using WorkSC to search for jobs

WorkSC is SCES's online job board where you can search thousands of positions posted by South Carolina employers. You can filter jobs by county, industry, job title, and salary range. Create a free account and upload your resume so employers can find you when they search for candidates with your skills. WorkSC also shows you which industries are growing in your region and what certifications or training are in demand.

Many employers use WorkSC to fill positions, so checking the site regularly increases your chances of finding work. You can set up job alerts that email you when new positions matching your criteria are posted. If you are receiving unemployment benefits, SCES may require you to show that you searched WorkSC and contacted employers each week. Keep a record of the jobs you viewed and any applications you submitted.

What happens if your claim is denied

SCES denies claims when you do not meet the earnings requirement, quit your job without good cause, or were fired for misconduct. The denial notice explains the reason and tells you how to request a hearing. You have a limited time to file your appeal—usually 10 days—so read the notice carefully and act quickly if you disagree with the decision.

At the hearing, you can present evidence and testimony about why you should receive benefits. This might include emails from your employer, witness statements from coworkers, or medical records if you quit due to illness. You do not need a lawyer, though you may bring one if you choose. The hearing officer listens to both sides and makes a decision. If you disagree with that decision, you can appeal to the SCES Appeals Board.

Regional SCES offices and career services

SCES operates offices in most South Carolina counties. At your local office, you can use computers to search for jobs, attend free workshops on resume writing and interview skills, and meet with a career counselor who can review your background and suggest positions that match your experience. Some offices offer mock interviews where you can practice answering common questions before you meet with real employers.

Career counselors at SCES can also help you understand what training or certifications might make you more competitive for jobs in your field. They know which employers in your area are actively hiring and can sometimes connect you directly with hiring managers. Services are free and available to anyone, whether or not you are receiving unemployment benefits. Call your local office to ask about current workshops and counselor availability.

Reporting your work search and maintaining your claim

If you are receiving unemployment benefits, SCES requires you to search for work and report your activities each week. This means contacting employers, applying for jobs, or attending job interviews. You must file your weekly claim by the deadline SCES gives you, usually online or by phone. If you miss the deadline, your benefits stop until you file the following week.

Keep detailed records of every job you contacted, including the employer name, date, method of contact, and the job title. If SCES asks you to verify your work search, you will need these records. If you find a job and return to work, report your earnings to SCES immediately. Depending on how much you earn, you may still receive partial benefits. If you do not report your earnings and SCES discovers the discrepancy later, you may have to repay benefits you were not may have access to to receive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to receive my first unemployment payment?

SCES typically processes claims within two to three weeks. Once approved, you receive a debit card in the mail with your first payment loaded on it. If your claim is delayed because your employer disputes it, the process may take longer. You can check the status of your claim online through your SCES account.

Can I receive unemployment if I was fired?

You can receive benefits if you were fired, but only if the reason was not misconduct. Misconduct means you deliberately violated a work rule or behaved in a way that harmed the employer's business. If you were fired for poor performance, being late, or making an honest mistake, you may still be may have access to to benefits. Your employer will explain the reason when SCES contacts them.

What if I find a part-time job while receiving unemployment?

Report your earnings to SCES each week. Depending on how much you earn, you may receive reduced benefits. SCES allows you to earn a certain amount before your benefits decrease. The exact amount changes each year. Report honestly—if SCES discovers unreported earnings later, you will have to repay the benefits.

Do I have to use WorkSC to search for jobs?

You do not have to use WorkSC specifically, but if you are receiving benefits, SCES requires you to search for work and document your efforts. You can use other job boards, contact employers directly, or attend job fairs. Keep records of your activities so you can show SCES that you are actively looking for work.

What should I do if I disagree with my benefit amount?

Contact SCES and ask them to explain how your benefit amount was calculated. If you believe there is an error in your earnings record, request a correction. If you still disagree after speaking with SCES, you can request a hearing and present evidence of your actual earnings, such as pay stubs or tax returns.