IDES to stop issuing unemployment benefits on debit cards

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WICS) — Changes are coming to the way the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) distributes unemployment insurance benefits.

Typically, IDES sends out the payments on a debit card if the claimant did not choose direct deposit.

Starting Dec. 27, 2021, those who have opted to receive payments on a debit card will start receiving payments by paper checks.

Those who chose to get benefits through direct deposit will not see any changes.

IDES is strongly encouraging anyone who hasn't chosen the direct deposit option to do so soon as it means quicker access to payments.

Step-by-step instructions on switching to direct deposit can be found in Direct Deposit Guide on the IDES website at ides.illinois.gov/payment.