The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DLIR) has introduced three new tools aimed at simplifying the unemployment insurance claims process. According to DLIR Director Jade T. Butay, these tools are part of a broader effort to improve the current system while developing a new platform to replace the existing mainframe application.
“These tools are part of a package of improvements we’re rolling out to make the current unemployment insurance claims process easier for claimants, while we’re simultaneously developing a new platform to replace the legacy application on the mainframe,” said Butay.
The initiative includes feedback from beta testing with claimants and community organization partners. UI Administrator Anne Perreira-Eustaquio highlighted the importance of this feedback: “We beta-tested these tools with claimants and community organization partners to hear and incorporate their feedback, which proved to be an invaluable part of the process before implementation.”
The first tool is a work search reporting tool designed to help claimants track their job search activities in real time. This feature allows users to record their efforts throughout the week, eliminating the need to recall and enter activities during weekly claim certifications. The portal will also maintain records of these activities, enabling claimants to access their history and update entries as needed.
The second tool is a wage calculator intended for partially unemployed claimants. This tool assists in calculating and reporting any wages earned while collecting unemployment benefits. By providing clearer guidance on required information, it aims to ensure more accurate reporting.
Lastly, an online payment system has been introduced for repaying overpayments via credit card, debit card, PayPal, or eCheck. This option complements existing methods such as in-person or mail payments.