Direct Deposit or Debit Card: Receiving Unemployment Benefits

The Connecticut Department of Labor delivers unemployment benefits in one of two ways. Filers can receive benefits by direct deposit or get a debit card through our bank partner, U.S. Bank ReliaCard®. You will choose direct deposit or U.S. Bank Reliacard as part of filing for unemployment benefits. 

Unemployment filing is paperless. 

You must file for benefits and submit your weekly certification online through www.ReEmployCT.com or with the assistance of an American JobCenter. 

Consumer Contact Center representatives are prohibited from enrolling filers in unemployment benefits or direct deposit.  


On March 1, 2023, CTDOL switched from Key Bank to the U.S. Bank ReliaCard®. You should continue to use your Key Bank card until you deplete all the funding on the card. Once you use all the funding, you can destroy the card.

Resources

Reliacard FAQs 

Everything you need to know about getting, activating & using your new ReliaCard. 

ReliaCard LogIn 

ReliaCard cardholder website: here's where you login, find customer service, and more.

CTDOL Contact Center 

Help with your unemployment account & the unemployment process. Questions about ReliaCard? Call 1-866-328-1265.
Banking with Card and Phone

Benefits of US Bank Reliacard

U.S. Bank ReliaCard® is a convenient and secure way to receive your benefit payments:

• Payments are automatically loaded to your card.
• You may make purchases, get cash, and pay bills anywhere Visa® is accepted.
• Funds are protected if your card is lost or stolen.
• If you were filing for unemployment and have returned to work, hold onto your U.S. Bank Reliacard—they are valid for 3 years.

* (You are generally protected from all liability for unauthorized transactions with Zero Liability. You must call the number on the back of your Card immediately to report any unauthorized use. Certain conditions and limitations may apply. See your Cardholder Agreement for details.)

Padlock on Keyboard

Always keep your personal information safe

Always keep your personal information safe: don't share your PIN, account number, or passwords. CTDOL will never text links or call and ask for banking information. Tips to be fraud aware. Visit the CTDOl Integrity Unit for fraud and ID theft reporting as well as fraud prevention help. Have questions regarding Fraud please visit our Integrity page.

Person at ATM

CTDOL will direct deposit your benefits for free

CTDOL will direct your benefits for free to your checking or savings account. Check with your bank on any fees that may apply. Low and no fee bank accounts are available through some Connecticut banks and credit unions. To get started with setting up a checking or savings account please check out the CT Bank On program. To change your method of payment for benefits, login to your ReEmployCT account, select Benefit Maintenance - Update Claimant Profile - Payment Options.