HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (L&I) is reminding residents who received Unemployment Compensation (UC) benefits in 2024 to check their mailboxes and online accounts for the 1099-G tax forms required for filing their tax returns. This annual notification aims to ensure accuracy and provide support to claimants during tax season.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that every Pennsylvanian who received Unemployment Compensation benefits in 2024 has the resources they need to file their taxes accurately and on time,” said Labor & Industry Secretary Nancy A. Walker. “Our goal is to make this process as smooth as possible, and we encourage claimants to check their mailboxes and online dashboards for their 1099-G forms. If there are any issues, we are here to help and ensure that any necessary corrections are made quickly.”
The department has already made 1099-G forms accessible through claimants’ online dashboards and expects mail circulation of the forms to be completed by the end of January. To help recipients address any concerns, L&I has published an extensive FAQ on its website explaining the forms and the steps required to request corrections if necessary.
The department also emphasized that the receipt of a 1099-G form by individuals who did not file for UC benefits may signal identity theft. Such cases should be reported immediately online or via the PA Fraud Hotline at 1-800-692-7469. Victims of identity theft are advised to file their taxes promptly, excluding any fraudulent income listed on the 1099-G form.
L&I’s announcement also highlights the broader impact of reforms within the state’s UC system under the Shapiro Administration. Since 2023, Pennsylvania has rolled out significant updates to improve accessibility, customer service, and efficiency. The addition of over 380 interviewers has dramatically cut call wait times, from nearly 40 minutes in 2023 to under 27 minutes in 2024, while reducing the number of call attempts needed to reach an agent.
Other enhancements include the UC Connect program, which provided in-person services to 30,796 individuals at PA CareerLink® locations in 2024, and advanced technology like ID.me kiosks to streamline identity verification. These steps align with Governor Josh Shapiro’s bipartisan 2024-25 budget, which allocated $68 million to modernize UC system infrastructure and deliver better outcomes for claimants.
The administration has also simplified processes for claimants. For instance, reopening UC claims now takes as little as 5–15 minutes for many applicants, compared to the hour-long process previously required.
Underpinning these comprehensive reforms is the Shapiro Administration’s focus on breaking barriers to access and creating a more equitable, efficient unemployment system that adapts to the diverse needs of the workforce.
With tax season on the horizon, Pennsylvanians are urged to monitor their accounts, report any issues promptly, and leverage available UC resources. Claimants experiencing difficulties can reach out directly to the UC helpline at 888-313-7284, utilize live chat services, or email UCHelp@pa.gov for support. These ongoing improvements reflect Pennsylvania’s efforts to provide better services to its residents while ensuring accountability and efficiency in UC operations.
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