MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Alabamians filing a new unemployment claim will soon have to complete a new online identity verification process.
Beginning Sept. 30, people filing an initial unemployment compensation claim in Alabama will verify their identity through Login.gov, according to the Alabama Department of Workforce.
Claimants must first file through the Alabama Unemployment Claimant Portal. After filing, an Identity Verification link will appear on the portal’s home screen.
The verification must be completed within 10 calendar days of filing the claim.
“Identity verification protects claimants, helps prevent fraud and safeguards Alabama’s unemployment compensation system,” Alabama Department of Workforce Secretary Greg Reed said. “Login.gov gives claimants a secure, straightforward way to complete this important step online. We encourage anyone filing an initial claim to begin promptly and follow every instruction through the final confirmation screen.”
During the online process, claimants will sign in to an existing Login.gov account or create one. They may be asked to upload a government-issued photo ID, provide personal information, take a selfie and confirm a phone number.
Some claimants may also be given the option to verify their identity at a participating U.S. Post Office. Those using that option will receive a Login.gov barcode and instructions on what identification to bring.
Once verification is complete, claimants must select “Agree and continue” to allow Login.gov to share the verification results with the Alabama Department of Workforce.
The department said failing to provide proof of identity within 10 calendar days could delay or result in the denial of unemployment benefits.
Online verification must be attempted first. If the online process is unsuccessful, or a claim is denied because identity verification was not completed, claimants may visit an Alabama Career Center.
Those seeking in-person assistance should bring a valid government-issued photo ID, Social Security card and proof of address if their current address differs from the one shown on their photo ID.
The Alabama Unemployment Claimant Portal is available at uiclaimantportal.labor.alabama.gov.
Those needing help with an unemployment claim can call 1-800-361-4524 to schedule a callback.
