State warns of unemployment claim Web sites
The state Department of Workforce Development is warning Wisconsin residents to be wary of Web sites that charge fees to file for unemployment benefit claims.
The only agency that accepts unemployment claims is the DWD, so there's no need to use other Web sites, said department secretary Roberta Gassman.
"We help individuals file their claims absolutely free," Gassman said. "Going to one of these (Web) sites can delay payment of benefits, add unnecessary steps to the process and put people at risk of identity theft."
The Web sites look similar to the state's official site and typically offer free consultation, urging fast action for guaranteed results.
But according to Gassman, the claims still ultimately must be filed with the state, and benefit payments are not automatic.
"We work hard to process claims in a timely manner, taking great care to ensure people get the benefits they are entitled to receive," Gassman said. "No one can guarantee payment of benefits, but we can guarantee we will help people file their claims at no cost to them and we will keep their information confidential."
Individuals can file unemployment claims by calling the Division of Unemployment Insurance toll-free, 1-800-822-5246, or by calling the claims offices in Madison, 608-232-0678, or Milwaukee, 414-438-7700.
The official DWD unemployment claim filing Web site is http://unemployment.wisconsin.gov.
