If I received unemployment benefits last year but did not receive a 1099-G and can't find it online with my state's search tool, should I still file it as income?

[jaimenmerino]

I received unemployment benefits with the added boost from the VA CARES Act last year, but I haven't gotten a 1099-G. I also can't find it online with the VEC search tool saying that there is no information available for me. Should I file it as some other sort of income or should I not worry about it since I didn't receive the form?

[ColeenD3]

Yes, you should still file it as unemployment income and then exclude it. Please see this LINK.

[jaimenmerino]

I should add that the unemployment benefits were paid by my state government, not another source.

[PattiF]

Yes, you would include the unemployment income, Have you tried to call the unemployment office? Here is a link to phone numbers of regional offices.

[jaimenmerino]

I've called my local offices but they either send you to a machine that keeps you stuck in a loop or send you directly to voicemail of which I have left a few already with no reply. 

[jaimenmerino]

The included link suggests filing as non-government unemployment assistance. The options I'm given are for union, private fund, or state employee benefits, all of which I don't qualify for. Should I just pick one and continue?

[MaryM428]

You will report it as unemployment.  None of the other options are correct.

• In the Did you receive a 1099-G? screen, select No, I didn't receive a 1099-G.
• On the next screen, Let us know if any of these uncommon situations apply, select I received non-government unemployment benefits that weren't reported on a 1099-G and Continue.

How to Report Unemployment if I did not get a 1099-G