When you apply for benefits, you have two convenient options for receiving your money: direct deposit into your bank account o prepaid debit cardWhen submitting a new application, you can choose your preferred payment method. If you do not sign up for direct deposit, your benefits will be automatically issued via a prepaid debit card.

Direct deposit

Direct deposit allows your earnings to be transferred directly to your checking or savings account. Most banks accept this method, although some may require a special account number or not offer this service at all. It's important to confirm with your financial institution.

Direct deposit is available for the following programs:

• Unemployment Insurance (and extensions)
• Trade Adjustment Assistance (TRA)
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA)

If you apply for unemployment benefits online, you can enter your banking information during the application process. You will be asked for your nine-digit bank routing number and your personal account number.

You can also start or change direct deposit at any time by logging into your account and completing the relevant update form. If you already chose direct deposit when you applied, you don't need to register again unless you want to change your bank details.

Funds are typically transferred within two business days after you certify your benefits. Deposits are not made on weekends or bank holidays. It is your responsibility to verify that the money has been credited before issuing checks or making payments from your account.

Direct deposit will remain active as long as your claim is active. If your case becomes inactive due to non-certification for 28 days or more, you will need to re-enter your bank information when reactivating your claim; otherwise, the system will automatically change your payment method to debit card.

If you wish to switch from direct deposit to a debit card, you must complete the corresponding authorization form and email it to us. Changes may take up to four weeks to process, and payments will continue to be sent to your current account until the change is effective.

If your bank information is incorrect and the deposit is returned, the direct deposit will be temporarily suspended and you will receive a prepaid debit card in the mail. Your benefits will be charged to that card until you send a new authorization with corrected bank details.

Choosing the right method will allow you to receive your benefits safely and on time. It's important to keep your information up to date to avoid payment delays.