SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – If you receive state unemployment benefits, you’re not going to get them on a state-issued debit card anymore.
The Illinois Department of Employment Security says that’s because the state’s vendor, Key Bank, decided to stop providing such debit cards.
“Beginning December 27th, claimants who defaulted to a debit card option as their preferred method of payment will begin receiving paper checks, instead of the benefits being placed on a debit card,” said Kristin Richards, acting IDES Director.
Richards says those who receive unemployment benefits via direct deposit will not see any change.
“We want to encourage [benefit recipients] to visit the Illinois Department of Employment Security website, and consider switching your method of payment to direct deposit prior to December 27th,” said Richards.
Richards says the state is working with Chase Bank to make sure there aren’t otherwise any problems.
CLICK HERE for the IDES website’s payment method section.
