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With most UI claims now being filed online, Wisconsin in 2017 to phase-out 1990s-era automated telephone system
MADISON – With most unemployment claims already being filed through the state’s fast, convenient and state-of-the-art online system, Wisconsin in 2017 will concentrate virtually all Unemployment Insurance (UI) self-services online and phase out a 1990s-era automated telephone system.
The state Department of Workforce Development (DWD), which oversees the state’s unemployment system, will continue to operate telephone-based services to help UI claimants navigate online services and assist claimants with certain barriers in completing their claims.
“With most initial and weekly claims already being filed online, it is clear that more customers prefer the convenience of online self-service and are filing for unemployment benefits through their computer, smartphone or other mobile device,” DWD Secretary Ray Allen said. “With a UI system that is mobile friendly and easy to use, Wisconsin stands well positioned to join several other states in moving all UI claim filing activity online and transitioning away from telephone-based automated filing.”
DWD has long offered online filing services and in 2014 rolled out the first of several dramatic enhancements to its online UI system. Today, three out of every four weekly claims are filed online and three out of five initial claims are filed online.
Online filing services offer several advantages over the automated telephone system, such as:
* The ability to save work and conveniently finish a claim at a later time.
* Options to view information entered for accuracy prior to submitting a claim.
* Work search and wage entry screens to enter required data online, preventing potential payment delays associated with sending in the information by fax or mail.
* Tips and answers to frequent questions during the filing process.
Additionally, customers can quickly and easily retrieve account information, such as:
* Individual claim information, payment status and remaining benefit balance.
* Printer-friendly documentation of payments received for housing or energy assistance.
* 1099-G tax forms to view or print.
* Personal information including the ability to update an address, tax withholding, payment method, and bank information.
DWD is collaborating with regional partners in encouraging claimants without a personal computer or mobile device to file at their local job center, library or other local center with online access.
The automated phone system will be discontinued in phases during 2017, starting in spring.
To file an unemployment claim or to seek answers to claims questions online, UI customers can logon to my.unemployment.wisconsin.gov<
For more information: https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/
