JUNE 2008 - Unemployed workers in Michigan can stop looking for their unemployment checks to be in the mail.

On June 2, the state's Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) will begin offering unemployed workers a choice between two new electronic options for receiving their unemployment benefits - either direct deposit into workers' bank or credit union account or by debit card.

"These new methods for delivering unemployment benefits will be faster and more secure and cost efficient than the current practice of mailing paper checks," Acting UIA Director Chris Peretto pointed out.

The debit card and direct deposit options will be offered to newly unemployed workers as they apply for unemployment benefits. Peretto said he expects most workers will opt for either a debit card or direct deposit, since they will eliminate mail delays and costs associated with cashing and/or depositing the paper checks. The agency, however, will still mail checks if requested.

"Since the benefits will be electronically deposited onto workers' debit cards or into their bank accounts, they will receive their unemployment compensation faster than if checks were mailed, especially for those in the outlying areas of the state," Peretto said.

Unemployment benefits will be added to an individual's debit card or bank account within two to three days following the worker's certification of his/her continuing eligibility for benefits through UIA's automated MARVIN system. The Michigan UI debit cards can be used for purchases at any merchant that accepts Visa.

It can also receive cash back from automated teller machines and at Visa-member banks and credit unions in Michigan. "The use of debit cards and direct deposit are two more examples of how UIA is using today's technology to improve service while becoming more customer friendly, efficient and cost-effective," Peretto noted.

Debit Card/Direct Deposit Poster