DLLR's Division of Unemployment Insurance

Debit Card Information - Changes in How You Receive Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefits - Prepaid Card

A facsimile of the Unemployment Insurance debit card

A facsimile of the Unemployment Insurance debit card envelope

The State of Maryland has replaced paper unemployment insurance checks with the Maryland Unemployment Insurance (UI) Benefit Prepaid Debit Card. The Division of Unemployment Insurance provides the Visa® debit card through Citibank. This method of payment is mandatory for all new claims filed on or after December 1, 2008.

When you receive your "Determination of Monetary Eligibility," if it displays a weekly benefit amount, you will receive the Maryland UI debit card directly from Citibank within 10 days of filing your initial claim. The card will arrive in a YELLOW envelope with the State of Maryland logo and a Nebraska return address in the upper left-hand corner. Receipt and activation of the card does not mean that you will be automatically eligible to receive UI benefits. However, if you meet all of the requirements of the UI Law, you will have a safe and convenient way to receive and access your Maryland UI benefits.

In addition, you will have the option of having your UI benefits transferred into your personal bank account, similar to direct deposit. Citibank will include instructions for choosing this option when you receive the UI debit card package.

Some of the main advantages to receiving your payments using a debit card include:

Saves time - Easy and quick access to your payments without waiting in line to cash or deposit a check
Convenient - Withdraw cash at ATMs 24 hours a day and make purchases everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted
Saves money - Reduce check cashing and money order fees
Tracks spending - Free account information and customer service 24 hours a day
Reliable - Receive your payments timely - no lost or stolen checks

Report any address changes immediately to both Citibank and the Division of Unemployment Insurance.

When you receive the card, for security purposes, be sure to immediately sign your name on the back of the card in ink. You cannot use the card until it has been activated. To activate your card and create a PIN, you must call Citibank at 1-800-225-1115. Choose a PIN that only you would know. Never share your PIN or your card with anyone. You will be held legally responsible for all activity connected to the card.

Important: Hold onto your debit card. It is valid for a two-year period.