Maine Department of Labor: Direct Deposit

WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE YOUR WEEKLY UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFIT PAYMENTS DEPOSITED DIRECTLY INTO YOUR CHECKING OR SAVINGS ACCOUNT?

1. What does it cost to have my benefits go directly to my checking or savings account?

This agency is pleased to offer direct deposit free of charge to claimants who live and bank in the United States. We believe that you will find increased convenience and security with this payment method.

2. After I complete my application, how long does it take before my benefits can be sent directly to my designated bank account?

There is a 10-day account verification period between the date this agency receives your application and the date that your benefits can be electronically sent to your bank. This time period is used to confirm personal account information and your bank’s transit/routing number. If you are eligible to be paid benefits during this period, unemployment benefit checks will be sent to you by mail to prevent payment delays.

3. How do I apply for direct deposit?

If you want your benefit payments deposited into your checking account, write VOID on a blank check (a deposit slip is not acceptable) or obtain a bank letter with all relevant information. For deposit into your savings account get a letter from your bank stating your account number and their transit/routing number. Contact the Unemployment Claims Center at 1-800-593-7660 to obtain an Application for Direct Deposit of Unemployment Compensation Benefits (Form Me. B-170). Complete the application and mail or fax these documents to:

Maine Department of Labor
Benefits Division
P.O. Box 259
Augusta, ME 04332-0259

Fax: (207) 287-8351

Please note that your deposits cannot be split between accounts or deposited into a third party account.

4. How will I know if my benefit payment has been deposited?

After the initial waiting period, your deposit should be in your bank account 2 business days from the date your payment was certified. The quickest way to verify a deposit is by calling your bank. You can also call our interactive voice response system at 1-800-593-7660 to hear your current unemployment benefit balance and the last 4 weeks that were paid. This agency cannot be responsible for any bank charges or other returned check charges related to overdrafts.

5. What should I do if my account is closed, I change banks, I open a new account or I want to stop direct deposit?

To prevent benefit payment delays, contact the Unemployment Claims Center at 1‑800‑593‑7660 to request an application by mail. Upon receipt, complete the form and mail or fax it to us immediately. If you change banks or want your benefits deposited into a new account follow the steps in #3 above. Note, any time you change your bank or account; you must complete a new application and mail it to us. A new 10-day certification period must be served until your bank authorizes the deposits. During this time, your benefits checks will be mailed to you. You may stop your direct deposit by calling (207) 287-3805 and providing your PIN.

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