| Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development News Release | |
|---|---|
| Wednesday, November 26, 2003 Governor Jim Doyle Secretary Roberta Gassman |
News Media Contact Rose Lynch 608/266-6753 Actuality Line (866) 556-7623 e-mail: news@dwd.state.wi.us fax: 608/266-1784 |
Madison - In a significant cost savings measure, Department of Workforce Development Secretary Roberta Gassman announced today that the filing of weekly claims for unemployment benefits has now become much easier for unemployed workers. Providing an additional option for unemployed individuals to file for benefits, we estimate the state will also save at least $240,000 per year in telephone and processing costs.
"I am pleased to announce this new filing option at this time of year, when we traditionally see more people filing for benefits as many plants temporarily shut down because of the holidays and the weather. This technology will allow people to file more quickly and with fewer errors." said Secretary Gassman. "The Internet service provides an alternative for those who prefer to use the Internet instead of the phone, and increases accessibility for those with hearing or speech impairments."
Wisconsin, among the first states to replace long lines at the unemployment office with a telephone claims taking system, is again on the forefront with Internet weekly claims filing.
Effective today, in addition to Wisconsin’s often-copied UI phone claims system, unemployed Wisconsin workers can file their weekly unemployment claims via the Internet. The on-line system parallels the current telephone system, but is much easier to use, is less costly and more efficient. Use of the internet system will reduce the number of calls to the phone system, so that individuals who do not have access to the internet will experience fewer busy signals.
The new system is easier to use because the filer can see the questions and view his or her answers before submitting the responses with no rush sometimes felt using a telephone. The filing method is less costly because the state pays no long distance charges to transmit a claim via the Internet and is more efficient because the new system allows for extensive on-line editing and help so users can be sure their claim is complete and accurate.
Savings will be realized through reduced phone charges, lower mail costs and fewer rejected, incomplete claims that require special handling and cause delays in payment.
For more information on the system or to file online, access https://ucclaim-wi.org
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