Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Hi friend. Looking for work can feel like a full time job all by itself. Whether you just lost a job, want a better one, or are starting over, New Jersey has no cost help to get you there. Let's take it one step at a time.
Here is the easy first step: walk into your county's One Stop Career Center, also called an American Job Center, and ask for help with your job search. If you just lost your job, apply for unemployment right away.
A few things to know
- You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
- Each place decides who it can serve. We share what each place says it offers and how to reach it. We can't promise a job, benefits or a spot in any program.
- Hours change. Call ahead when you can.
- In danger right now? Call 911. Thinking about suicide or in crisis? Call or text 988.
New Jersey's One Stop Career Centers are run with the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The state says they're staffed with employment counselors and offer:
- Job search help
- Training and education help
- Special services, like help for people with disabilities
- Resource rooms with computers and telephones
The state says the doors are open for walk in visits for career help, or you can make an appointment for career counseling. Every county's center is listed at the end of this guide.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
How to get started, step by step
- Find your county's One Stop Career Center at the end of this guide.
- Walk in, or call to ask about hours and workshops.
- Bring an ID and a list of your past jobs and dates.
- Ask about job search help, training and resume help.
- Make a simple weekly plan: how many jobs you'll apply for, and when.
What to say at the job center
"Hi. I'm looking for work and I'd like help with my job search."
"Do you have workshops, or help with my resume?"
"Is there training I could qualify for?"
Use the library, too
Libraries have computers, printers and WiFi. They're great for job applications. See Guide 12. You've got this!
What if I just lost my job?
Apply for unemployment as soon as you can. The state says your claim doesn't begin until you file, and you can't backdate a claim for weeks you missed.
- Apply online at myunemployment.nj.gov. The state says this is the easiest, quickest way.
- Or call a Reemployment Call Center: North New Jersey, 201.601.4100. Central New Jersey, 732.761.2020. South New Jersey, 856.507.2340. New Jersey Relay is 711.
- The state says all of these numbers go to the same place. If you're waiting in line on the phone, don't hang up to try another number, or you'll lose your place.
- For in person help with a claim at a One Stop Career Center, the state says you need an appointment.
Sources: https://www.nj.gov/labor/myunemployment/before/about/howtoapply/callrcc.shtml and https://www.nj.gov/labor/myunemployment/labor/myunemployment/assets/pdfs/PR-94.pdf and https://www.nj.gov/labor/myunemployment/ and https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Before you apply for unemployment, gather what you can
What happens after I apply?
After you apply, step by step
- Watch your email and mail. The state uses email for appointments and updates.
- You may need to verify your identity online or in person.
- Certify for benefits each week, online or by phone.
- Keep looking for work, and write down where you applied.
- Go to any appointment you're given, like a reemployment session.
- If you're denied, read the letter right away. It tells you how to appeal and by when.
- Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.nj.gov/labor/myunemployment/
Keep your log
Write down every job you apply for: the date, the company and what happened. It helps you stay on track. Easy peasy!
Say you were laid off in Elizabeth
Say you were laid off from a warehouse job in Elizabeth. You could apply online at myunemployment.nj.gov that same week. Then you could walk into the Union County One Stop Career Center at Union College, 12 West Jersey Street in Elizabeth, or call 908.412.7980, for help finding your next job.
This is an example to show how it can work. It is not about a real person, and every situation is different. Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
What if I have a disability?
The New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) helps people with disabilities get ready for, find and keep a job. Offices are listed on the Department of Labor's site.
You can also ask at any One Stop Career Center.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/special-services/individuals-with-disabilities/
Can I get a job if I have a record?
Yes, many people do. Here are a few things that can help:
- Ask your One Stop Career Center about help for people with a record.
- Practice a short, honest answer about your past and what you've done since.
- Some records can be cleared. Legal aid can tell you if you may qualify for expungement. See Guide 13.
Practice your answer
Say it out loud a few times: what happened, what you learned and why you're ready now. Short and honest works best. You've got this!
Where can I get no cost job training?
- One Stop Career Centers can help you find training and education. Some centers list classes like digital literacy, ESL, high school equivalency prep and Jersey Job Club workshops. Ask what your center offers.
- Food banks. Fulfill offers a culinary job training program. See the Monmouth and Ocean cards.
- Community colleges. Ask about short certificate programs and help paying for them.
Sources: https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/ and https://fulfillnj.org/
How do I get ready for interviews?
- Look up the company before you go.
- Practice answers to common questions, like "Tell me about yourself."
- Wear clean, simple clothes. See Guide 5 for clothing help.
- Bring a few copies of your resume, an ID and a list of references.
- Ask your One Stop Career Center about practice interviews.
What if my boss didn't pay me?
New Jersey's Division of Wage and Hour Compliance takes wage complaints. You can file a wage complaint with the Department of Labor online.
Before you file a wage complaint, gather what you can
Questions people ask a lot
Where do I apply for unemployment in New Jersey?
Online at myunemployment.nj.gov, or by calling a Reemployment Call Center.
What are the call center numbers?
North New Jersey 201.601.4100, Central New Jersey 732.761.2020 and South New Jersey 856.507.2340. They all go to the same place.
Can I walk into a One Stop Career Center?
The state says yes, for career help. For in person help with unemployment, make an appointment.
What is a One Stop Career Center?
A no cost job center with counselors, job search help, training help and computers. There's one in every county.
Can I backdate my unemployment claim?
The state says no. File as soon as you lose your job.
Where can I report unpaid wages?
File a wage complaint with the Department of Labor's Division of Wage and Hour Compliance.
Sources: https://www.nj.gov/labor/myunemployment/before/about/howtoapply/callrcc.shtml and https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/ and https://www.nj.gov/labor/wageandhour/
One step at a time
Every application is a step forward. I'm cheering for you, friend!
Here is your One Stop Career Center and other local help, starting with the biggest counties. Call ahead for hours.
New Jersey
Here are some places to start.
NJ One Stop Career Centers
What it offers No cost job search help, training and career services from the New Jersey Department of Labor.
How to reach Find a center at https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Work First New Jersey
What it offers The state's cash assistance program for families and single adults with low incomes, with job training and support. Ask your county social services agency about Emergency Assistance if you are homeless or about to lose housing.
How to reach Learn more at https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/programs/workfirstnj/
Source https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/programs/workfirstnj/
Last checked October 22, 2026
NJ 211
What it offers New Jersey's statewide information and referral line. Trained staff connect you to housing, food, health care and other help, 24/7.
How to reach Dial 211. Chat, text and search at https://nj211.org/
Source https://nj211.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Bergen County (Hackensack and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Bergen County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 60 State Street, Floor 2, Hackensack. Call 201.343.8830.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Middlesex County (New Brunswick and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Middlesex County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 550 Jersey Avenue, New Brunswick. Call 732.937.6200.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Essex County (Newark)
Here are some places to start.
Newark Public Library
What it offers No cost public computers and internet access at the main library, 5 Washington Street, Newark.
How to reach Call 973.733.7812. Computer lab 973.733.3603.
Source https://www.npl.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Essex County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 990 Mayor Kenneth A. Gibson Boulevard, Newark. Call 973.733.8500.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Hudson County (Jersey City and Hoboken)
Here are some places to start.
Hudson County Welfare Agency
What it offers Apply for SNAP, cash assistance and other county help in Hudson County.
How to reach Call 201.420.3000.
Source https://www.hcnj.us/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Hudson County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 438 Summit Avenue, 1st Floor, Jersey City. Call 201.217.4641.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Monmouth County (Freehold and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Fulfill (FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties)
What it offers Food through more than 300 pantries and soup kitchens in Monmouth and Ocean counties, plus mobile pantries and a no cost culinary job training program.
How to reach Find a pantry or mobile pantry at https://fulfillnj.org/get-help/ or call 732.918.2600.
Source https://fulfillnj.org/get-help/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Monmouth County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 60 Taylor Avenue North, Neptune. Call 732.481.6333.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Ocean County (Toms River and Lakewood)
Here are some places to start.
Ocean County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 1433 Hooper Avenue, Suite 214, Toms River. Call 732.286.5616.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Union County (Elizabeth and Plainfield)
Here are some places to start.
Union County Division of Social Services
What it offers Apply for SNAP, cash assistance, NJ FamilyCare and Emergency Assistance. Offices in Elizabeth and Plainfield.
How to reach Elizabeth: 342 Westminster Avenue, 908.965.2700. Plainfield: 200 West 2nd Street, 908.791.7000.
Source https://ucnj.org/dhs/social-services/ss-contact/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Union County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach Union College, Lessner Building, 12 West Jersey Street, 3rd floor, Elizabeth. Call 908.412.7980.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Camden County (Camden and Cherry Hill)
Here are some places to start.
Camden County Board of Social Services
What it offers Apply for SNAP, cash assistance and NJ FamilyCare. Emergency Assistance can help people on GA, TANF or SSI with temporary shelter, rent help and utility deposits.
How to reach Call 856.225.8800. 101 Woodcrest Road, Suite 161, Cherry Hill, near the PATCO Woodcrest Station. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.camdencounty.com/service/social-services/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Camden County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 101 Woodcrest Road, Suite 127, Cherry Hill. Call 856.549.0600.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Passaic County (Paterson and Passaic)
Here are some places to start.
Passaic County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 25 Howe Avenue, Passaic. Call 973.742.9226.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Morris County (Morristown and Dover)
Here are some places to start.
Morris County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 13 Emery Avenue, Randolph. Call 862.397.5600.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Other counties (One Stop Career Centers)
Here are some places to start.
Atlantic County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 2 South Main Street, 1st Floor, Suite 1, Pleasantville. Call 609.813.3932. Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Burlington County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 795 Woodlane Road, 2nd Floor, Westampton. Call 609.518.3900.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Cape May County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 3801 Route 9 South, Unit 3, Rio Grande. Call 609.224.2000.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Cumberland County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach Cumberland County College Campus, 3322 College Drive, Vineland. Call 856.696.6600.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Gloucester County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 1480 Tanyard Road, Suite A, Sewell. Call 856.251.6810.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Hunterdon County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 8 Bartles Corner Road, Flemington. Call 908.782.2371.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Mercer County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 26 Yard Avenue, Building 4, 1st Floor, Trenton. Call 609.989.6523.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Salem County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 147 South Virginia Avenue, Penns Grove. Call 856.238.6800.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Somerset County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 75 Veterans Memorial Drive East, Suite 102, Somerville. Call 908.440.0455.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Sussex County One Stop Career Center
What it offers No cost job search help, career counseling, training and education help, and a resource room with computers and phones. Walk in for career help. For unemployment help in person, make an appointment.
How to reach 30 Moran Street, Newton. Call 973.561.4356.
Source https://www.nj.gov/labor/career-services/contact-us/one-stops/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Bring to the career center, if you can
My job plan for this week
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
My job search
Calls I made
Key numbers to keep
Please let me know if you have any questions
If something in this guide is out of date, tell us and we'll fix it. I'm proud of you for taking this step. Make it a great day, friend!
About this guide
Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!
Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
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