In response to recent increases in fraudulent activities, the Pennsylvania Treasury Department and the Department of Labor and Industry have updated the payment process for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefits. This update ensures that recipients can access their Pennsylvania unemployment benefits securely and efficiently, addressing concerns some may have about potential Pennsylvania Treasury Unclaimed Money. For those awaiting these crucial funds, understanding these changes is vital to accessing your benefits promptly.
Understanding the ReliaCard for Unemployment Benefits
To combat fraud and streamline benefit distribution, the primary method for receiving PUA and FPUC payments is now through electronic deposits onto U.S. Bank ReliaCard debit cards. Even if you initially requested direct deposit, you will now receive your benefits via a ReliaCard. This prepaid Visa debit card offers a secure and reliable way to manage your funds.
Expect to receive your ReliaCard within 7 to 10 business days after your initial payment is processed by the Department of Labor and Industry. The card will arrive in a plain envelope postmarked from Indianapolis, IN, so it’s important not to accidentally discard this piece of mail, as it contains your access to your unemployment benefits.
The ReliaCard provides numerous convenient features. You can use it for purchases anywhere Visa is accepted, obtain cash back at point-of-sale, pay bills online, and withdraw cash without fees at over 3,900 in-network ATMs across Pennsylvania. You can easily monitor your balance and transactions through the ReliaCard mobile app or the cardholder website at usbankreliacard.com. Setting up email or text alerts will keep you informed about when your benefits are deposited, ensuring you are always aware of your available funds. Furthermore, you have the option to transfer funds from your ReliaCard to your personal bank account if preferred. It’s worth noting that some transactions and services may incur fees, so reviewing the fee schedule and cardholder agreement is advisable for full transparency. More detailed information about the ReliaCard can be found here.
Check Payment Option (If Preferred)
While the ReliaCard is the standard method, you can request to receive your unemployment benefits payments by check if you prefer. However, it is important to understand that payment by check is a slower process and places a greater demand on state resources. Additionally, check delivery is subject to the schedules of the U.S. Postal Service, which can introduce further delays.
Due to the high volume of benefit payments related to recent events, there have been instances of delays and interruptions in check processing and mailing. These challenges may continue to cause unpredictable delivery times for checks. If you still wish to receive your payments by check, you can make this request by visiting the Pennsylvania Treasury website at https://www.patreasury.gov/ucpuachoice and submitting the required information.
In conclusion, the Pennsylvania Treasury and Department of Labor and Industry are committed to ensuring you receive your unemployment benefits securely and efficiently. While the ReliaCard is now the primary method to prevent potential issues related to Pennsylvania treasury unclaimed money and fraud, the option to request payment by check remains available for those who need it. Staying informed about these payment methods is the best way to ensure timely access to your benefits.
