Many states offer the option of receiving your benefits on a pre-paid debit card. This means they will issue you a card and they will pay your benefits as a balance on the card; you can then use the card wherever debit cards are accepted.

States that offer this option usually also offer the option of having your payments deposited directly to a bank account. If you have a bank account, experts advise that you select this option. It’s safer because you can lose a debit card and someone else can use your funds.

If you had your benefits loaded on to a debit card but you have not received the card, you need to check your state’s unemployment insurance website to find out how to follow up. Many states use a third party provider for the debit cards so you may need to contact them instead of your state’s unemployment insurance office.