The Employer Handbook pulls together everything an employer needs to know about Unemployment Insurance (UI) Contributions (tax) in Montana: subjectivity requirements, how to register your business, quarterly report filing and payment requirements, understanding your tax rate, and more.
Per ARM 24.40.1609(7), all employer quarterly Unemployment Insurance (UI) reports must be filed electronically. UI eServices for Employers, our online employer portal, is one of the best ways to electronically file quarterly reports and pay any tax due. Electronic payments are preferred but not required at this time.
For more information on using eServices or our electronic filing requirements and options, review these Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) our our Montana E-Filing Handbook.
Last Updated 1/7/26UI Contribution (or tax) rates are set annually. For most employers, rates are generally calculated in early to mid December for the following calendar year. Rating for Governmental employers is done in May for the next state fiscal year beginning July 1.
Letter from our Commissioner - Lower Rates for 2026
Last Updated 12/16/25A collaborative effort between the Montana Department of Labor & Industry and businesses/entities across the state, SafetyFestMT provides FREE training to employers and their workers. Training topics may include but are not limited to:
If/when layoffs or reductions in hours occur (temporary or permanent), it is a good idea to let your workers know they may be eligible to receive Unemployment Insurance Benefits. This optional one page handout is a quick easy way to provide them with the information they need to apply.
Please note: The generic notice provided below does not replace the requirement for employers to post notice of coverage pursuant to Montana Administrative Rule 24.40.1601. Upon registering your business with Montana Unemployment Insurance you will be provided with a notice, specific to your business, that must be posted conspicuously for your employees to see. The generic handout below is an optional additional step if you choose.
Last Updated 4/8/25Employers play a key role ensuring the integrity of Montana's UI program and preventing fraud. Check out the information in the fliers below to see how.
If an individual is receiving Unemployment Insurance Benefits and then refuses an official offer of work, it may impact their ability to continue receiving benefits. Employers are strongly encouraged to notify UI when this happens. Complete the Refusal of Work Report form on the State of Montana Self Service Portal. A separate form is needed for each individual or declines or misses an interview. Please be as specific as possible with the details you provide.
Step-by-Step Instructions for using the State of Montana Self-Service Portal to report to UI.
Last Updated 10/18/21If an individual is receiving Unemployment Insurance Benefits and declines or misses an offered interview, without good cause, it may impact their ability to continue receiving benefits. Employers are strongly encouraged to notify UI when this happens. Complete the Declined/Missed Interview Report form on the State of Montana Self Service Portal. A separate form is needed for each individual who declines or misses an interview. Please be as specific as possible with the details you provide.
Declined/Missed Interview Report Form
Step-by-Step Instructions for using the State of Montana Self-Service Portal to report to UI.
Last Updated 10/18/21Appeal hearings are conducted through the Office of Administrative Hearings. During the hearing both parties are allowed to present their case and to ask each other questions. Although the Hearing Officers are employed by the Montana Department of Labor & Industry, they are independent from the offices that issues the Notice of Determination and the Notice of Redetermination and they are required by law to provide fair and impartial hearings.
Last Updated 5/3/21If you are dissatisfied with the Board’s decision, you have the right to appeal it by filing a Petition for Judicial Review within 30 days after the decision was sent to you.
Visit the Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board page for more information.