Archived UI Alerts and Notices

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​ATTENTION: This page contains archived updates from prior years that may not reflect current details of Kentucky’s Unemployment Insurance Program. Please visit 2023 UI Changes to see the most recent program updates.

Important UI Messages Archive

Important UI Messages

NEW FOR 2026

01/30/2026

Claimants who choose to withhold income tax from their unemployment benefits will now have state tax deducted at a 3.5% rate (down from 4%). Benefits are considered taxable income and must be reported. Tax withholding is optional and may be changed once per benefit year through the claimant portal.

Exciting changes are coming to Kentucky's Unemployment Insurance system!

01/05/2026

To learn about system improvements, project timelines, FAQs, a short survey, or to sign up for the project newsletter visit our new Kentucky Unemployment Insurance Portal page.

Kentucky Career Centers closed Friday, July 4th

07/01/2025

Kentucky Career Center offices will be closed on Friday, July 4th, 2025. Unemployment Insurance claimants may experience a delay in payments due to banks being closed.

Gov. Beshear: Deadline To Apply for Disaster Unemployment Assistance Extended for Those Impacted by the April Severe Storms

06/04/2025

Kentuckians in counties that received federal approval for Individual Assistance may be eligible

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 4, 2025) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced today that Kentucky's request for a 30-day extension to the registration period for those impacted by the April severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides that began in Kentucky on April 2, 2025, has been approved. The deadline has been extended until July 25, 2025, for disaster survivors in all counties designated for Individual Assistance in DR-4864-KY.

On April 24, 2025, President Donald Trump approved Gov. Beshear's request for a major disaster declaration in response to devastating severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides that began in Kentucky on April 2, 2025.

On May 14, 2025, President Trump approved an amendment to that declaration, expanding Individual Assistance to an additional 24 counties following requests submitted by Gov. Beshear on April 28 and May 5, 2025.

Gov. Beshear's requests for Public Assistance and hazard mitigation for the entire state are still under review.

Originally, Individual Assistance was made available for residents in the following 13 counties: Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford.

The additional counties added by the amendment for DUA eligibility are: Breckinridge, Bullitt, Calloway, Daviess, Garrard, Grayson, Hancock, Hart, Henderson, Henry, Jefferson, LaRue, Lincoln, McLean, Meade, Muhlenberg, Nelson, Ohio, Oldham, Pendleton, Powell, Trimble, Warren and Webster.

Individuals – including unemployed and self-employed individuals who were living or working in the affected areas and became unemployed or had work interrupted as a direct result the flooding that occurred in Kentucky beginning on April 2, 2025, and continue to be out of work – are eligible to apply for DUA benefits through the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance.

DUA is available to individuals who:

•       Worked or were self-employed, or were scheduled to begin work;

•       Can no longer work or perform services because of physical damage or destruction to their place of employment as a direct result of a disaster, which can also include the physical inaccessibility of the place of employment due to its closure by the federal, state or local government in immediate response to the disaster;

•       Establish that the work or self-employment they can no longer perform was their primary source of income;

•       Do not qualify for regular unemployment insurance benefits from any state;

•       Cannot work or resume self-employment because of an injury as a direct result of the disaster; or

•       As a result of the disaster, became the breadwinner or major supporter of a household because of the death of the head of the household.

In order to qualify for DUA benefits, claimants in eligible counties must show that their employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of the disaster and that they are not otherwise eligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits under state or federal law. Farmers and other self-employed individuals who traditionally are ineligible for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits may qualify for DUA.

To receive DUA benefits, the federal program requires individuals to provide documents, including a copy of their most recent federal or state income tax forms or check stubs, a bill showing their physical address at the time of the disaster and a photo ID. All required documentation must be submitted within 21 days from the date the individual's DUA application is filed.

DUA is available for up to 29 weeks of unemployment beginning April 6, 2025, until Oct. 25, 2025, as long as the individual's unemployment continues to be a direct result of the disaster.

How To File a Claim

Affected individuals should visit the Kentucky Career Center website at kcc.ky.gov or call 502-564-2900 to file their initial claim. The deadline to apply for assistance is July 25, 2025.

Updated information will be communicated on the Kentucky Career Center website and through future press releases with detailed information. DUA is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and benefits are not charged to employers.

Following the storms, the Governor urged local officials to start the federal Individual Assistance and Public Assistance damage assessments and asked Kentuckians who experienced storm damage to take photographs to document damages before cleaning up and to report those losses to their local emergency management officials.

Gov. Beshear also activated the State Emergency Operations Center and activated the state's price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they cleaned up from the severe weather.

Unemployment Insurance Claimants: Waiting Week Information

05/20/2025

In Kentucky, all initial claims must serve a “Waiting Week". This means that benefits are not paid for the first week that you are eligible. You must claim benefits (and complete work search activities) in order for the week to count as your waiting week. You must serve only one waiting week per claim. The waiting week does not count as one of your 12-24 benefits weeks.

Gov. Beshear: Individual Assistance Issued in 24 Additional Counties for Kentuckians Affected by Widespread Flooding in April

05/15/2025

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 15, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that the Trump administration has approved his April 28 and May 5 requests to add Individual Assistance for 24 more counties affected by the widespread flooding that took place last month. The number of counties approved for Individual Assistance is currently 37.

Individual Assistance has now been approved for Breckenridge, Bullitt, Calloway, Daviess, Garrard, Grayson, Hancock, Hart, Henderson, Henry, Jefferson, LaRue, Lincoln, McLean, Meade, Muhlenberg, Nelson, Ohio, Oldham, Pendleton, Powell, Trimble, Warren and Webster counties in addition to those of Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford, which were approved April 25. Assistance for more counties may be requested through an amendment if assessments warrant.

“Great news – 24 more counties have been approved for Individual Assistance by FEMA following the April severe weather," said Gov. Beshear. “This process takes time, and we will continue to request more counties be added until everyone affected receives the support they need and deserve."

The Governor thanked President Trump, Office of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and everyone at the federal level who helped acquire this additional help for Kentuckians.

How to Apply: Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated counties can begin applying for assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or other similar service, can give FEMA the number for that service.

When applying for assistance, make sure:

•       You upload your documents online via the FEMA App or by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov.

•       Your damaged home is your primary residence.

•       You haven't received assistance for the same losses from another source, including insurance.

•       You are able to be reached by FEMA at the contact information you provide in the application.

If you disagree with FEMA's decision, you may appeal:

•       Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.

•       In person at a Disaster Recovery Centers, which will open in coming days.

•       Or by mail or fax.

As the rains began that eventually led to widespread flooding, Gov. Beshear declared a state of emergency, activated the State Emergency Operations Center and the state's price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they clean up and recover from the severe weather. The price gouging prohibition was renewed April 17.

Following the storms, the Governor urged local officials to start the federal Individual Assistance and Public Assistance damage assessments and asked Kentuckians who experienced storm damage to take photographs before cleaning up and to report the damages to their local emergency management officials.

How To Help: The Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund was established after the severe weather in February and will serve survivors of that and additional natural disasters. As with previous relief funds, these dollars will first help pay for victims' funeral expenses. To donate, click here.

Gov. Beshear: Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available for Those in 13 Counties Impacted by Severe Storms in April

05/08/2025

Click here to view Disaster Unemployment Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

Kentuckians in counties that received federal approval for individual assistance may be eligible

FRANKFORT, Ky. (May 5, 2025) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced today that the state will accept applications for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) from individuals in 13 counties who are out of work as a result of severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides that began in Kentucky on April 2, 2025, and continuing.

On April 24, 2025, President Donald Trump approved Gov. Beshear's request for a major disaster declaration for Kentucky in response to April's devastating severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides, which includes individual assistance for Kentuckians in Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford counties.

The Governor will request that additional designations and counties be added to the declaration through an amendment as ongoing assessments are completed.

Individuals – including unemployed and self-employed individuals who were living or working in the affected areas and became unemployed or had work interrupted as a direct result the flooding that occurred in Kentucky beginning on April 2, 2025, and continue – are eligible to apply for DUA benefits through the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance.

DUA is available to individuals who:

•       Worked or were self-employed, or were scheduled to begin work

•       Can no longer work or perform services because of physical damage or destruction to their place of employment as a direct result of a disaster, which can also include the physical inaccessibility of the place of employment due to its closure by the federal, state or local government in immediate response to the disaster;

•       Establish that the work or self-employment they can no longer perform was their primary source of income;

•       Do not qualify for regular unemployment insurance benefits from any state;

•       Cannot work or resume self-employment because of an injury as a direct result of the disaster; or

•       As a result of the disaster, became the breadwinner or major supporter of a household because of the death of the head of the household.

In order to qualify for DUA benefits, claimants in eligible counties must show that their employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of the disaster and that they are not otherwise eligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits under state or federal law. Farmers and other self-employed individuals who traditionally are ineligible for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits may qualify for DUA.

To receive DUA benefits, the federal program requires individuals to provide documents, including a copy of their most recent federal or state income tax forms or check stubs, a bill showing their physical address at the time of the disaster and a photo ID. All required documentation must be submitted within 21 days from the date the individual's DUA application is filed.

DUA is available for up to 29 weeks of unemployment beginning April 6, 2025, until October 25, 2025, as long as the individual's unemployment continues to be a direct result of the disaster.

How To File a Claim

Affected individuals should visit the Kentucky Career Center website at kcc.ky.gov or call 502-564-2900 to file their initial claim. The deadline to apply for assistance is June 23, 2025.

Updated information will be communicated on the Kentucky Career Center website and through future press releases with detailed information. DUA is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and benefits are not charged to employers.

Following the storms, the Governor urged local officials to start the federal Individual Assistance and Public Assistance damage assessments and asked Kentuckians who experienced storm damage to take photographs to document damages before cleaning up and to report those losses to their local emergency management officials.

Gov. Beshear also activated the State Emergency Operations Center and activated the state's price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they cleaned up from the severe weather.

Last week, Gov. Andy Beshear announced that he has sent two additional requests to FEMA seeking aid for families and communities affected by April's floods.

First, the Governor is requesting families in 16 more counties receive Individual Assistance to help them recover. On April 25, the Governor announced that President Donald Trump had approved part of his April 11 request for a Major Disaster Declaration, which included Individual Assistance for Kentuckians in 13 of the counties affected by the most recent flooding.

Second, the Governor is now requesting Public Assistance for 64 counties in which FEMA has validated damages. The Governor also renewed his request for approval for hazard mitigation for the entire state.

UI claimants, career seekers: Note Good Friday hours of operation

04/16/2025

The Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance Call Center will be available between 9 a.m. and noon EDT on Friday, April 18, 2025, in observance of Good Friday. Regular business hours will resume on Monday, April 21, 2025.

Some Kentucky Career Center offices may be closed on Good Friday or have limited hours of operation. Please contact your local career center office for holiday business hours.

Unemployment insurance claimants: 1099-G

01/23/2025

Unemployment Insurance Claimants: 1099-G documents will soon be available in the claimant portal and mailed via the U.S. Postal Service by Jan. 31, 2025. Please watch this short video to learn more about your 1099-G form and how to access:

Video: https://www.youtube.com/embed/ClSY51Fe6OQ?si=0LqnPI_N66egAqDd

Read the 1099-G Frequently Asked Questions document for additional information.

Gov. Beshear: Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available for Those Impacted by Severe Storms Over Memorial Day Weekend

08/09/2024

Click here to view Disaster Unemployment Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 9, 2024) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced today that the state will accept applications for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) from individuals in 15 counties who are out of work as a result of the severe storms in Kentucky on May 21-27, 2024.

Following Gov. Beshear's disaster relief request on June 14, 2024, President Joe Biden issued a Major Disaster Declaration on July 23, 2024, designating the following 15 counties for individual assistance: Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley.

Individuals – including unemployed and self-employed individuals who were living or working in the affected areas and became unemployed or had work interrupted as a direct result of severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides on May 21-27, 2024, – are eligible to apply for DUA benefits through the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance.

DUA is available to individuals who:

•       Worked or were self-employed, or were scheduled to begin work or self-employment;

•       Can no longer work or perform services because of physical damage or destruction to the place of employment as a direct result of a disaster, which can also include the physical inaccessibility of the place of employment due to its closure by the federal, state or local government in immediate response to the disaster;

•       Establish that the work or self-employment they can no longer perform was their primary source of income;

•       Do not qualify for regular unemployment insurance benefits from any state;

•       Cannot work or resume self-employment because of an injury as a direct result of the disaster; or

•       As a result of the disaster, became the breadwinner or major support of a household because of the death of the head of the household.

In order to qualify for DUA benefits, claimants in eligible counties must show that their employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of the disaster and that they are not otherwise eligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits under state or federal law. Farmers and other self-employed individuals who traditionally are ineligible for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits may qualify for DUA.

To receive DUA benefits, the federal program requires individuals to provide documents, including a copy of their most recent federal or state income tax forms or check stubs, a bill showing their physical address at the time of the disaster and a photo ID. All required documentation must be submitted within 21 days from the date the DUA application is filed.

DUA is available for weeks of unemployment beginning May 26, 2024, until Jan. 25, 2025, as long as the individual's unemployment continues to be a direct result of the disaster.

How To File a Claim

Affected individuals should visit the Kentucky Career Center website at kcc.ky.gov or call 502-875-0442 to file their initial claim. The deadline to apply for assistance is October 9, 2024.

Updated information will be communicated on the Kentucky Career Center website and through future press releases with detailed information. DUA is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and benefits are not charged to employers.

Following the storms over the Memorial Day weekend, the Governor urged local officials to start the federal Individual Assistance and Public Assistance damage assessments and asked Kentuckians who experienced storm damage to take photographs before cleaning up and to report the damages to their local emergency management officials.

Gov. Beshear also activated the State Emergency Operations Center and activated the state's price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they cleaned up from the severe weather.

On Memorial Day, Gov. Beshear visited the hardest impacted areas in Hopkins and Muhlenberg counties to view storm damage and speak with local officials and families affected by the severe weather.

Duration of Benefits

08/02/2024

The State Average Unemployment Rate – means the seasonal adjusted statewide unemployment rate that applies to a six-month period beginning January 1st – July 1st. Those lookback dates will provide the average rate for the proceeding months. Kentucky remains at 16 weeks of benefits for those meeting eligibility.

Image on the website: Duration of benefits 08-2024​

Gov. Beshear: Disaster Unemployment Assistance Available for Those Impacted by April 2 Severe Storms

06/13/2024

Click here to view Disaster Unemployment Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

FRANKFORT, Ky. (June 13, 2024) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced today that the state will accept applications for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) from individuals in 11 counties who are out of work as a result of the severe storms that occurred on April 2, 2024.

Following Gov. Beshear's disaster relief request, President Joe Biden issued a Major Declaration on May 22, 2024, designating the following counties for individual assistance: Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley.

Individuals – including unemployed self-employed individuals who were living or working in the affected areas and became unemployed or had work interrupted as a direct result of severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides on April 2, 2024 – are eligible to apply for DUA benefits through the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance.

DUA is available to individuals who:

•       Worked or were self-employed, or were scheduled to begin work or self-employment;

•       Can no longer work or perform services because of physical damage or destruction to the place of employment as a direct result of a disaster, which can also include the physical inaccessibility of the place of employment due to its closure by the federal, state or local government in immediate response to the disaster;

•       Establish that the work or self-employment they can no longer perform was their primary source of income;

•       Do not qualify for regular unemployment insurance benefits from any state;

•       Cannot work or resume self-employment because of an injury as a direct result of the disaster; or

•       As a result of the disaster, became the breadwinner or major support of a household because of the death of the head of the household.

In order to qualify for DUA benefits, claimants in eligible counties must show that their employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of the disaster and that they are not otherwise eligible for regular unemployment insurance benefits under state or federal law. Farmers and other self-employed individuals who traditionally are ineligible for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits may qualify for DUA.

To receive DUA benefits, the federal program requires individuals to provide documents, including a copy of their most recent federal or state income tax forms or check stubs, a bill showing their physical address at the time of the disaster and a photo ID. All required documentation must be submitted within 21 days from the date the DUA application is filed.

DUA is available for weeks of unemployment beginning April 7, 2024, until Nov. 23, 2024, as long as the individual's unemployment continues to be a direct result of the disaster.

File Claim

Affected individuals should visit the Kentucky Career Center website at kcc.ky.gov or call 502-875-0442 to file their initial claim. The deadline to apply for assistance is Aug. 12, 2024.

Updated information will be communicated on the Kentucky Career Center website and future press releases with detailed information. DUA is funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and benefits are not charged to employers.

In response to the storms, the Governor also urged local officials to start the federal Individual Assistance and Public Assistance damage assessments, and asked Kentuckians who experienced storm damage to take photographs before cleaning up and to report the damages to their local emergency management officials.

At the time, Gov. Beshear also activated the State Emergency Operations Center; closed all Executive Branch state office buildings and activated the state's price gouging laws to protect Kentuckians from overpriced goods and services as they clean up and recover from the storms.

On April 3, the Governor visited Prospect in Jefferson and Oldham counties and Fayette and Jessamine counties to see storm-impacted areas and to meet with local officials and families. Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman visited Ashland and Boyd counties.

Throughout the response, the Governor provided several updates to keep Kentuckians informed about the state's response. Click here for news release updates from April 2, April 3, April 4 and April 11.

Informational Update regarding Kentucky Unemployment Insurance Benefit Overpayments

05/10/2024

Senate Bill 140, passed in the 2024 Legislative Session, codifies into Kentucky law the existing practice of waiving recovery of eligible overpayments by the Office of Unemployment Insurance. Additionally, SB 140 extends the timeframe for applicable claims that were filed between January 1, 2020 to September 6, 2021. The previous end date of eligible claims was December 31, 2020.

Federal guidance provided updated instructions for circumstances for which a state may waive recovery of overpayments under the CARES Act Unemployment Compensation (UC) programs. These programs include:

•       Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC)

•       Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC)

•       Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)

•       Lost Wages Assistance (LWA),

•       Mixed Earners Unemployment Compensation (MEUC)

The federal guidance elaborated on the criteria for waiving recovery of overpayments at no fault of the claimant on a case-by-case basis. The federal guidance also expanded the scenarios for permissible use of “blanket waivers," although recovery activities for fraudulent overpayments may not be waived. This guidance is derived from Unemployment Insurance Program Letter (UIPL) No. 20-21, Change 1.

Please check back soon for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

State Information Data Exchange System

05/02/2024

Employers, did you know this program is available to you, the State Information Data Exchange System? Click the below link to learn more

SIDES Employer Messaging US Department of Labor (youtube.com)

After watching the video, click this link to register.

Kentucky's Self-Service

Attention UI claimants:

04/30/2024

The UI computer system will be offline for system maintenance beginning at 6 p.m. EDT on Thursday, May 2, 2024. Availability will be restored by 7 a.m. EDT on Friday, May 3, 2024.

Attention UI claimants:

04/12/2024

Due to system upgrades, payments requested on 4-11-24 through 4-15-24 will be delayed. Please allow one to two additional business days to receive your payment.

Attention UI claimants:

04/11/2024

Due to technical issues, the system will be down from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 11, 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause our customers.

New FAQ Guide now available for UI claimants

03/20/2024

The Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance has created a new, informative FAQ Guide to assist UI claimants. Find it here on the KCC website.

UI claimants, career seekers: Note Good Friday hours of operation

03/20/2024

The Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance Call Center will be available between 9 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. EDT on Friday, March 29, 2024, in observance of Good Friday. Regular business hours will resume on Monday, April 1, 2024.

Some Kentucky Career Center offices may be closed on Good Friday or have limited hours of operation. Please contact your local career center office for holiday business hours.​

2/21/2024

UI Strike Information: FAQ for the Claimant

I am currently unemployed or have a reduction in hours due to the circumstances of a Labor Strike. 

How do I file a claim?
To file online visit the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance Website: https://kcc.ky.gov

To file by phone call(502)875-0442 (M-F 7:30 am to 5:30 pm EST)

What are my rights and responsibilities?
Reference: https://kcc.ky.gov/career/Documents/PAM400.pdf

Am I eligible for unemployment insurance benefits?
If you are unemployed through no fault of your own, you MAY be eligible for unemployment benefits. 

Reference: https://kcc.ky.gov/career/Documents/PAM400.pdf

Reference: KRS 341.350 statute.aspx (ky.gov)

What is a Strike/Lockout? 
A strike is a situation in which employees agree to an organized stoppage of work until the employer and the union reach an agreement about working conditions, wages and benefits.

A lockout is a  situation in which the employer prevents employees from entering the workplace until the employees/union accept a new proposal regarding working conditions.

A labor union is a group of employees who join together to advance common interest such as wages, benefits, schedules and other employment terms and conditions.  Members often pay dues to the union and elect officers to represent the group during contract negotiations.

*General knowledge terms

Reference: KRS 341.360 (1) statute.aspx (ky.gov)

Am I required to look for work?
To be eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits, you must actively seek full-time work. Claimants must report at least five (5) work search activities each week. At least three (3) of these must be job applications or interviews. If you do not meet the work search requirements, you will lose benefits for the week(s) being claimed.

Only claimants with a Work Search Exception are exempt from seeking work. You are not required to conduct a job search if:

• You are a member of a trade union that finds work for you.
• You are a student in an approved training program (and have received a determination).
• You have a definite recall date within 16 weeks of your initial claim filing date. Note that you will be required to provide documentation from your employer with your return-to-work date.  If you do not provide documentation, you will be subject to work search requirements.
• You are on temporary leave of absence while still considered an employee.
• Your employer filed a mass electronic claim (E-Claim) or Work Share Claim on your behalf.
  

Reference: https://kcc.ky.gov/career/Documents/PAM400.pdf

Reference: KRS 341.350 statute.aspx (ky.gov)

How do I request a payment?
It is recommended that you request benefits online instead of by phone.

You must report all earnings, wages and income to the Office of Unemployment Insurance.

Reference: Instructions on Requesting Benefits

For additional assistance:

Call (502) 564-2900

Or visit: https://kcc.ky.gov

1/8/2024

Kentucky Career Centers closed Monday, Jan. 15

​All Kentucky Career Center offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Unemployment insurance claimants may experience a delay in payments due to banks being closed.​

​1/4/2024

Unemployment Insurance Claimants: 1099-G​

Unemployment Insurance Claimants: 1099-G documents will soon be available in the claimant portal and mailed via the U.S. Posta​l Service by Jan. 31, 2024. Please watch this short video to learn more about your 1099-G form and how to a​​ccess. Click here to watch the video.

Dec. 15, 2023

U.S. Bank Debit Card Holders: Please note holiday hours 

Unemployment insurance claimants relying on U.S. Bank debit cards should note that the bank will be closed on Christmas day.
Clients may seek assistance with debit card accounts between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. EST Dec. 18 through Dec. 29.

Dec. 13, 2023

UI claimants: No change in benefit weeks effective Jan. 1, 2024

Kentucky unemployment insurance claimants are currently eligible to receive up to 16 weeks of benefits pursuant to House Bill 146 and KRS 341.385. The number of weeks will not change effective Jan. 1.

For additional information about how benefit weeks are calculated, visit Kentucky Career Center's 2023 UI Changes page.

Nov. 20, 2023

New Call Center Hours

The Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance Call Center has new hours.  Starting Friday, December 1, 2023, the Call Center is available to assist from 9:00 a.m.– 6:00 p.m. EST.  Call 502-564-2900. 

Nov. 20, 2023

Kentucky Career Center Thanksgiving holiday schedule

All Kentucky Career Centers offices in the commonwealth will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, and Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, in observance of Thanksgiving. Please note that unemployment insurance claimants may experience a delay in payments due to banks being closed.

Nov. 17, 2023

UI claimants: U.S. Bank upcoming system maintenance schedule; key dates to remember

Kentucky unemployment insurance claimants relying on U.S. Bank ReliaCards for benefit payments should be advised that the bank has scheduled system maintenance to occur at various times during the month of November for multiple systems. Customers could experience intermittent service availability or downtime on the company's website during these periods (all times EST):

• Between 1 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, and 12:55 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 20, 2023; expect downtime between 1 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 17.
• Between 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, and 4 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 25.
  
  

Nov. 14, 2023

Attention UI claimants and employers: Application and system updates scheduled for Nov. 18, 2023

Please be advised that the Office of Unemployment Insurance will upgrade numerous applications and information systems between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. EST on Saturday, Nov. 18. The following applications and systems will be unavailable during those hours:

• KEWES Internal

• KEWES External

• Employer Website

• Tax Applications

• Print System

• Collections

• Images
  
  

Nov. 6, 2023

Attention UI claimants and individuals seeking career services:

All Kentucky Career Centers Offices in the commonwealth will be closed on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023, in observance of Veterans Day. Unemployment insurance claimants could experience a delay in payments due to banks being closed.

Oct. 10, 2023

UI Strike Information: FAQ for the Claimant

I am currently unemployed or have a reduction in hours due to the circumstances of a Labor Strike. 

How do I file a claim?

To file online visit the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance Website: https://kcc.ky.gov
To file by phone call (502) 875-0442 (M-F 7:30 am to 5:30 pm ET).

What is a Strike/Lockout? 

*Strike: A situation in which employees agree to an organized stoppage of work until the employer and the union come to an agreement about working conditions, wages, and benefits. 

*Lockout: A situation in which the employer prevents employees from entering the workplace until the employees/union accept a new proposal regarding working conditions. 

*Labor Union: A labor union is a group of employees who join together to advance common interest such as wages, benefits, schedules and other employment terms and conditions.  Members often pay dues to the union and elect officers to represent the group during contract negotiations. 
*General knowledge terms

Reference: KRS 341.360 (1) statute.aspx (ky.gov)

Am I required to look for work?

To be eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits, you must actively seek full-time work. Claimants must report at least five (5) work search activities each week. At least three (3) of these must be job applications or interviews. If you do not meet the work search requirements, you will lose benefits for the week(s) being claimed.

Only claimants with a Work Search Exception are exempt from seeking work. You are not required to conduct a job search if: 

• You are a member of a trade union that finds work for you 

• You are a student in an approved training program (and have received a determination) 

• You have a definite recall date within 16 weeks of your initial claim filing date: You will be required to provide documentation from your employer with your return-to-work date. If you do not provide documentation, you will be subject to work search requirements. 

• You are on temporary leave of absence while still considered an employee 

• Your employer filed a mass electronic claim (E-Claim) or Work Share Claim on your behalf
  
  

Reference: https://kcc.ky.gov/career/Documents/PAM400.pdf
Reference: KRS 341.350 statute.aspx (ky.gov)​

How do I request a payment?

It is recommended that you request benefits online instead of by phone.
You must report all earnings, wages and income to the Office of Unemployment Insurance.
Reference: Instructions on Requesting Benefits

For additional assistance:
Call (502) 564-2900
Or visit: https://kcc.ky.gov

Oct. 11, 2023

UI Strike Information: FAQs for the Employer

What are my responsibilities? 

• Click here for Employer Guide: EMPLOYER GUIDE (ky.gov)

• An employer must notify the Office of Unemployment Insurance in writing when a strike or labor dispute occurs within seven (7) days.  The notification should be submitted to the attention of the UI Executive Directors Office:
  

Mail: 500 Mero Street, 4SC, Frankfort, KY 40601
Fax: (502)564-5502
Reference: KRS 341.360(1)(a) https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=52451

Is the employer eligible to submit E-claims or Work Share Claims on behalf of its employees?

• Requirement to participate in an E-claim:

• Click here for E-claim information: https://kcc.ky.gov/Employer/Pages/Filing-Your-Mass-Electronic-Claim-(E-Claim).aspx

• Workforce of at least 100 workers at the time of layoff.

• Minimum of 25 workers on layoff.

• Workers have a definite recall to work date within 4 calendar weeks. A worker who will be off for 5 weeks or more will need to file an individual claim for the entire period.

Requirement to participate in the Work Share Program:

The Kentucky Work Share (WS) program is an alternative to layoffs for employers experiencing a reduction in available work. 

• Submit a signed, written Work Share plan to the Offices of Unemployment Insurance (OUI) for approval.  Click here for Work Share application: https://kcc.ky.gov/career/If-you-are-an-Employer/Pages/default.aspx

• The plan applies to and identifies the specified affected group (2 or more employees)

• The employer approved plan expires after twelve (12) full calendar months from its effective date.

• Includes an estimate of the number of layoffs that might have occurred if the plan was not made available.

• The normal weekly hours of work for employees are reduced by not less than 10% and not more than 40%.

• The plan must consist of at least 10% of the workforce.

For additional assistance:

Call: (502)564-2900 and/or (502)564-3240

Or visit: https://kcc.ky.gov

Oct. 11, 2023

UI Claimants: U.S. Bank website system maintenance through Oct. 21; key dates

Kentucky unemployment insurance claimants relying on U.S. Bank ReliaCards for benefit payments may experience intermittent service availability on the company's website due to scheduled maintenance during the following hours (all times EDT):

• 9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 13, through midnight on Sunday, Oct. 16.

• 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 20, through 4 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21.
  
  

Oct. 3, 2023

​UI Claimants: Note Upcoming Federal Holiday Oct. 9

Unemployment insurance claimants can expect a delay in benefit payments during the week of Oct. 9 due to banks closing in honor of Columbus Day.

Sept. 26, 2023

Attention UI claimants:

Due to a technical issue, unemployment insurance claimants may experience a one-day delay in payments. We apologize for any inconvenience. ​​

Aug. 31, 2023

Kentucky Career Center Offices Closed Monday, Sept. 4

All Kentucky Career Center Offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 4, 2023, in observance of Labor Day. Unemployment insurance claimants may experience a delay in payments due to banks being closed.

July 20, 2023

UI claimants: U.S. Bank website system maintenance through July 28; key dates

Kentucky unemployment insurance claimants relying on U.S. Bank ReliaCards for benefit payments may experience intermittent service availability on the company's website during the following hours (all times EDT):

• The company will perform system maintenance from 9 p.m. Friday, July 21, through midnight on Monday, July 24. Between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. on Saturday, July 22, there will be intermittent downtime scheduled when applications may be unavailable.

• Between 8 p.m. on Friday, July 28, and 4 a.m. on Saturday, July 29, the cardholder website may experience intermittent interruption.
  
  

July 3, 2023

Kentucky Career Centers Closed Thursday, July 4

Tuesday, July 4, 2023, is a federal holiday. All Kentucky Career Centers Offices are closed. Unemployment insurance claimants may experience a delay in payments due to banks being​​ closed.​ 

June 16, 2023

UI claimants note: Juneteenth federal holiday June 19, 2023

Unemployment insurance claimants may experience a delay in benefit payments due to banks being closed on Monday, June 19, in observance of the Juneteenth Holiday.​ 

June 15, 2023

UI claimants: Please note UI Claimant Portal navigation changes

Claimants visiting the UI Claimant Portal will notice that Manage Account and View Payment History links no longer appear on the homepage: 

Access your account information and payment history by:

• Clicking the File New Claim/Payment Request button on the portal homepage.

• Clicking My Information menu in the upper-right corner of the following page.
  
  

June 8, 2023

UI claimants: U.S. Bank is planning website system maintenance during the month of June; key dates to note

Kentucky unemployment insurance claimants who rely on U.S. Bank ReliaCards for benefit payments should be advised that the company will perform scheduled website maintenance during the month of June. Cardholders may experience intermittent service availability or downtime on the company's website during the following hours (all times EDT):

• Beginning at 9 p.m. Friday, June 9 until 12 a.m. June 12; Cardholders will not be able to access accounts between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Saturday, June 10.

• Beginning at 8 p.m. Friday, June 23 until to 4 a.m. Saturday, June 24. 
  
  

June 2, 2023

Eligible benefit weeks increase for UI claimants applying ​for benefits and filing claims on or after July 1​

Kentucky unemployment insurance claimants who apply for benefits and file a new UI claim on or after July 1, 2023, will be eligible to receive up to four additional weeks of benefits.

Gov. Andy Beshear signed HB 146 into law on March 23, 2023, which increases from 12 to 16 the number of benefit weeks available for those filing a new claim on or after July 1, 2023.

Visit the 2023 UI Changes page​ for additional details.
Reminder: All claimants must continue to report up to five verifiable, unique work search activities each week to remain eligible for the program pursuant to HB 4 which took effect Jan. 1. See the FAQ page​ for more information about meeting work search requirements.

May 25, 2023

UI claimants: Beginning June 5, you can get in-person assistance with claims at regional career center offices ​without an appointment
Need assistance with an unemployment insurance claim?

Beginning June 5, UI claimants can simply walk into any regional Kentucky Career Center (KCC) office and ask for help without an appointment. Claimants will receive assistance on a first-come, first-served basis between 9 a.m. and noon and from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. local time Monday through Friday. 

Regional office ​​ locations:

Note: While the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance will make every effort to answer your questions during your consultation, claims specialists may not be able to provide a resolution during a single visit or phone call. Some UI claims may require additional paperwork or more time to complete and process.

Important: When visiting a regional office, bring two forms of acceptable identification documents. Click here to view the acceptable ID documents list.

Reminder: You don't need an appointment to get assistance with career services. You can receive job search or career assistance at any local career center office during normal business hours – walk-ins are always welcome. Each office will work with you on a first-come, first-served basis.

During your consultation, be sure to inquire about jobs in your area. With record low unemployment in the commonwealth, there may be a job available for you right now.

Career centers throughout the commonwealth provide a vast array of services to help you get back on the path to employment. Find job leads, job search assistance, adult education, vocational rehabilitation services and more in an office located near you. Click the Locations tab to find an office near you.

Sharpen your skills

Learn about training opportunities that can help you transition into ​a new, long-lasting, rewarding career that's in demand.

Resume not getting results?

We can help. Let our trained staff help you write a professional resume that will wow employers.

Need to use computers to search for jobs?

We've got you covered.
Career centers also offer services for veterans to help you transition into a meaningful civilian career.
If you're a Kentuckian living with a disability, we'd like to help you become an essential part of the workforce in your community.

May 22, 2023

​Kentucky Career Centers Closed Monday, May 29
Kentucky Career Center offices will be closed on Monday, May 29, 2023, in observance of Memorial Day. ​June 8, 2023

April 28, 2023

UI claimants: U.S. Bank is planning website system maintenance during the month of June; key dates to note

Kentucky unemployment insurance claimants who rely on U.S. Bank ReliaCards for benefit payments should be advised that the company will perform scheduled website maintenance during the month of May (all times EDT):

• 8 p.m. Friday, May 5 to 4 a.m. Saturday, May 6.

• 9 p.m. Friday May 12 to 12 a.m. Monday, May 15

• 8 p.m. Friday, May 26 to 4 a.m. Saturday, May 27

 Cardholders may experience intermittent service availability on the company's website during those times.

April 14, 2023

OUI Performing Scheduled Computer System Update April 20-April 23

The Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance will take its computer system offline from 7 p.m. EDT on Thursday, April 20 through 10 a.m. EDT on Sunday, April 23 to perform a scheduled system update. Individuals with an existing claim, and those who need to file an application for benefits will not be able to access the system during that time.

March 22

Good Friday Hours of Operation

The Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance Call Center will close at 12 pm EDT on Friday, April 7 in observance of Good Friday. Regular business hours will resume on Monday, April 10.

Some Kentucky Career Center offices may be closed on Good Friday or have limited hours of operation. Please contact your local career center office for holiday business hours.​​ 

Jan. 9, 2023​

Unemployment insurance claimants: 1099-G

Unemployment Insurance Claimants: 1099-G documents will soon be available in the claimant portal and mailed via the U.S. Postal Service by Jan. 31, 2023. Please watch this short video to learn more about your 1099-G form and how to access.

https://youtu.be/-yVEL_ApIWQ

Jan. 5, 2023

Important message for job seekers and employers regarding your Focus/Career or Focus/Talent account

Effective Jan. 31, 2023, the Kentucky Career Center (KCC) will stop using Focus/Career and Focus/Talent and transition to LinkedIn to assist job seekers and help employers find qualified employees.  

For those with Focus/Career accounts, you will lose access to your resume once the transition occurs. If you want a copy of your resume in Focus/Career, please download or email your resume from your account to your personal email address before Jan. 30.

Employers should download any information they would like to keep for their records before this date. If you are interested in using LinkedIn and do not already have an account, please set up your profile at https://www.linkedin.com/​.

Jan. 3, 2023

U.S. Bank will conduct routine system maintenance

Attention claimants,

US Bank will conduct routine system maintenance that might affect batch processing. While we do not foresee interruption to the use of your Reliacard, please note the following system maintenance scheduled for January 2023:​

• 1/6, beginning at 9 P.M. ET until 1 A.M. ET on 1/7

• 1/18, beginning at 12 P.M. ET until 5 P.M. ET

• 1/20, beginning at 9 P.M. ET until 12 A.M. ET on 1/23

• 1/27, beginning at 9:15 P.M. ET until 5:15 A.M. ET on 1/28

Jan. 3, 2023

Upcoming Holiday Office Closures

Due to the upcoming ​state holidays in 2023​, the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance will be closed on the following days. Banks may also be closed which could delay UI benefit deposits.

• Monday, Jan. 16 - Martin Luther King, Jr.'s Birthday

• One-half day, Friday, April 7 - Good Friday

• Monday, May 29 - Memorial Day

• Tuesday, July 4 - Independence Day

• ​Monday, Sept. 4 - Labor Day

• Friday, Nov. 10 - Veterans Day

• Thursday & Friday, Nov. 23, 24 - Thanksgiving

• Monday & Tuesday, Dec. 25, 26 - Christmas

• Friday & Monday, Dec. 29, Jan.​ 1 - New Year's​