Who Oversees Alaska Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOLWD) is responsible for administering Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits in the state. Within the DOLWD, the Employment Security Division manages the UI program, ensuring that eligible unemployed workers receive temporary financial assistance. The department’s official website provides comprehensive information and resources related to UI benefits. labor.alaska.gov

How Can I Qualify for Unemployment Benefits in Alaska?

To qualify for UI benefits in Alaska, you must meet several eligibility criteria:

  1. Monetary Requirements: You must have earned sufficient wages during the base period, which is typically the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before filing your claim. The exact amount required can vary, so it’s essential to review your earnings history. labor.alaska.gov
  2. Reason for Unemployment: You must be unemployed through no fault of your own. This generally means you were laid off due to lack of work. If you were fired or quit, eligibility will depend on the specific circumstances surrounding your separation.
  3. Ability and Availability: You must be physically and mentally able to work and be available for work. This includes actively seeking suitable employment and being ready to accept work when offered.
  4. Work Search Requirements: Claimants are typically required to actively seek and report a certain number of work search contacts each week. For instance, as of September 2023, workers living in Alaska within 55 road miles of a job center must report two work search contacts per week. Those residing more than 55 road miles from the nearest job center in rural Alaska are required to report one work search contact per week. alaskalawhelp.org

It’s important to note that specific situations, such as leaving a job to care for an immediate family member or being unable to work due to illness, can affect eligibility. Each case is evaluated individually, considering factors like the necessity of your presence and the availability of alternative care. alaskalawhelp.org

How Much Will I Receive in Unemployment Benefits in Alaska?

In Alaska, the weekly benefit amount (WBA) you can receive ranges from a minimum of $56 to a maximum of $370. The exact amount is determined based on your earnings during the base period. Additionally, you may be eligible for a dependent allowance of $24 per week for each qualifying dependent, up to a maximum of three dependents. A dependent is defined as your unmarried child, stepchild, legally adopted child, or court-appointed legal ward under the age of 18, unless they have a long-term disability. labor.alaska.gov
The duration of benefits varies from 16 to 26 weeks, depending on the amount and distribution of wages earned during your base period. It’s also important to note that the first eligible week of your claim is considered a “waiting week,” for which you will not receive payment, but you must still file for this week to receive credit.

What’s the Process for Applying for Unemployment Benefits in Alaska?

To apply for UI benefits in Alaska, follow these steps:

  1. File a Claim: The most efficient way to file a new claim is online through the myAlaska portal. Visit my.alaska.gov and select “Unemployment Insurance Benefits” to begin the process. This service is available 24/7. labor.alaska.gov
  2. Provide Necessary Information: Be prepared to supply personal information, including your Social Security number, details about your previous employment, and information about any dependents.
  3. Register for Work: If you are in Alaska and advised to do so, you must register for work by creating and posting an online resume on the Alaska Job Center Network at jobs.alaska.gov. This must be completed within seven days of filing your new or reopened claim. labor.alaska.gov
  4. File Weekly Certifications: After filing your initial claim, you are required to file weekly certifications to receive benefit payments. This can be done online through the myAlaska portal. If you are unable to file online, you may file claims biweekly by calling VICTOR, the automated telephonic system. labor.alaska.gov
  5. Select Payment Method: Choose between direct deposit and a debit card for receiving your benefits. If direct deposit is not established, a debit card will be sent to you. Electronic payments are typically deposited approximately five days after filing your weekly certifications. labor.alaska.gov

How Can I Manage My Unemployment Benefits in Alaska?

Managing your UI benefits involves several key activities:

  • Filing Weekly Certifications: Ensure you file your weekly certifications on time to continue receiving benefits. Each week starts on Sunday and ends at midnight on Saturday. You can file online through the myAlaska portal or, if unable to do so, via the VICTOR telephonic system. labor.alaska.gov
  • Reporting Earnings: If you work part-time or have any earnings during a week, you must report them. You can earn up to $50 weekly without reducing your benefit check. For earnings over $50, your benefit check will be reduced by $0.75 for each dollar earned. It’s crucial to report earnings in the week you earn them, even if you haven’t been paid yet. labor.alaska.gov
  • Updating Personal Information: Keep your contact information, including your mailing address and banking details, up to date.

How Can I Appeal a Decision Regarding Alaska Unemployment Benefits?

If you disagree with a determination made by the Division of Employment and Training Services (DETS) concerning your unemployment benefits, you have the right to appeal. The appeals process in Alaska consists of two levels:

  1. Appeals Tribunal: This is the first level of appeal. The Appeals Tribunal is an independent unit within the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, staffed by appeals officers who conduct hearings and make decisions. labor.alaska.gov
  2. Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development: If you disagree with the decision of the Appeals Tribunal, you can further appeal to the Commissioner. This is the second level of appeal. The Commissioner typically does not accept new evidence and will review the existing record to make a decision. labor.alaska.gov

Filing an Appeal

To initiate an appeal, you must submit a written request within 30 days after the DETS issues its written determination. If the determination was sent by mail, you have an additional three days to file the appeal. If the last day of the time limit falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, you have until the next business day to file. labor.alaska.gov
You can file an appeal via email, fax, mail, or phone:

  • Email: appeals@alaska.gov
  • Fax: (907) 465-3374
  • Mail:Appeal Tribunal OfficeP.O. Box 115509Juneau, AK 99811-5509
  • Phone: (800) 232-4762

When preparing your appeal, ensure you include your full name, Social Security number, current contact information, and a clear statement indicating your intent to appeal the specific determination. It’s advisable to provide a brief explanation of why you believe the determination is incorrect.

The Hearing Process

After filing your appeal, a hearing will be scheduled where you can present your case. The appeals officer will explain the hearing procedures and ensure the rights of all parties are protected during the hearing. You have the right to be represented by counsel, a representative, or another agent, though many parties choose to represent themselves. It’s important to gather and present any relevant documents or evidence to support your case during the hearing. labor.alaska.gov

Receiving the Decision

Following the hearing, the appeals officer will mail you a written decision outlining the facts, applicable law, and the reasons for their decision. You should receive this decision within approximately two weeks. The decision will also inform you of your right to further appeal if you disagree with the outcome. labor.state.ak.us

Why Appeal?

If you have been denied benefits, appealing the determination is the primary method to seek a reversal. Choosing not to appeal means accepting the initial decision. labor.alaska.gov

How Can I Report Unemployment Fraud in Alaska?

Unemployment Insurance (UI) fraud occurs when individuals knowingly provide false information or withhold information to receive benefits they are not entitled to. In Alaska, reporting UI fraud is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the system.

Reporting Identity Theft

If you suspect that someone has used your personal information to file a fraudulent unemployment claim, you should report it immediately. You can report identity theft to Alaska’s UI fraud unit by email at uifraud@alaska.gov or by phone at (877) 272-4635. labor.alaska.gov

Reporting Other Types of UI Fraud

For other types of unemployment fraud, including claimant fraud or employer fraud, you can report them through the following methods:

  • Email: uifraud@alaska.gov
  • Phone: (877) 272-4635
  • Mail:Unemployment Insurance ProgramFraud Investigations UnitP.O. Box 115505Juneau, AK 99811-5505

Additionally, you can complete the Fraud Reporting Form and submit it via email to uifraud@alaska.gov. labor.alaska.gov

Consequences of Committing UI Fraud

Individuals who commit UI fraud are required to repay all benefits received during the weeks in which fraudulent information was submitted, along with a penalty equal to 50% of the overpayment. Additionally, the individual will be disqualified from receiving future benefits for a period ranging from at least six weeks for each week affected by the false statements, up to a maximum of 52 weeks. labor.alaska.gov

How Can I Speak to a Representative at Alaska Unemployment Customer Service?

If you need assistance or have questions regarding your unemployment benefits in Alaska, you can contact a claims representative by calling the claim center. The claim center operates Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For the most current contact information and hours of operation, please visit the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s Unemployment Insurance FAQ page. labor.alaska.gov

What Happens if I Was Fired?

If you were terminated from your job in Alaska, your eligibility for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits depends on the circumstances surrounding your dismissal. Generally, if you were fired due to reasons other than misconduct, you may qualify for benefits. However, if your termination was due to misconduct, you may face a disqualification period.

Misconduct Definition

Misconduct typically includes actions such as deliberate violations of company policies, theft, dishonesty, or other behaviors that significantly harm the employer’s interests. If you were discharged for such reasons, you might be disqualified from receiving benefits for a period of six weeks. labor.alaska.gov

Disqualification Period

A six-week disqualification may apply if you were discharged for misconduct from your last job. This disqualification also denies your eligibility for the Extended Benefit (EB) program, and a total of three weeks will be deducted from the maximum amount of benefits you can collect. labor.alaska.gov

What Happens if I Quit My Job?

Voluntarily leaving your job can affect your eligibility for UI benefits in Alaska. If you quit without good cause, you may be disqualified from receiving benefits.

Good Cause Definition

Good cause for quitting is typically defined as a reason that is job-related and so compelling that you had no other choice but to leave. Examples include unsafe working conditions, significant changes in employment terms, or harassment that the employer failed to address. nolo.com

Disqualification Period

If you quit without good cause, you may be disqualified from receiving benefits for six weeks. This disqualification also denies your eligibility for the Extended Benefit (EB) program, and a total of three weeks will be deducted from the maximum amount of benefits you can collect. labor.alaska.gov

Maintaining Eligibility

Regardless of how your employment ended, to maintain eligibility for UI benefits in Alaska, you must:

  • Be able and available for full-time work.
  • Actively seek and report weekly work searches.
  • Register for work as required.

Failure to meet these requirements may result in a loss of benefits. labor.alaska.gov
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development’s resources on Unemployment Insurance. labor.alaska.gov

Alaska Unemployment Phone Number and Office Locations

Alaska Unemployment  Office Alaska Unemployment Office Locations Alaska Unemployment Phone Number
Anchorage Job Center Midtown 3301 Eagle Street Suite 101Anchorage, AK 99503 907-269-4759
Anchorage Job Center Muldoon 1251 Muldoon Road Suite 101Anchorage, AK 99504 907-269-0000
Y-K Delta Unmployment Office BNC Complex Suite 112Bethel, AK 99559-1607 907-543-2210
Bristol Bay Job Center 527 Seward St. Room 101PO Box 1149Dillingham, AK 99576-1149 907-842-5579
Fairbanks Unmployment Office 675 Seventh Avenue Station BFairbanks, AK 99701 907-451-5901
Homer Job Center 3670 Lake Street Suite 300Homer, AK 99603 907-226-3040
Juneau Unmployment Office 10002 Glacier Highway Suite 100Juneau, AK 99801 907-465-4562
Peninsula Unmployment Office 11312 Kenai Spur Hwy Suite 2Kenai, AK 99611 907-335-3000
Ketchikan Job Center 2030 Sea Level Drive Suite 220Ketchikan, AK 99901 907-225-3181
Kodiak Job Center 211 Mission Road Suite 103Kodiak, AK 99615-6315 907-486-3105
Nome Unmployment Office 103 Front StreetPO Box 280Nome, AK 99762 907-443-2626
Sitka Job Center 304 Lake StreetRoom 101Sitka, AK 99835-7563 907-747-3423
Valdez Unmployment Office 213 Meals AvenueState Office Building, Room 22Valdez, AK 99686-0590 907-835-4910
Mat-Su Job Center 877 West Commercial DriveWasilla, AK 99654 907-352-2500
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