COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services (ODJFS) is now asking those within the state applying for weekly unemployment to submit claims on specific days of the week based on their name.
The new system will begin this Sunday, April 26, and will start with those who have a last name beginning with ‘A’ through ‘H,’ Mondays will be designated for individuals ‘I’ through ‘P,’ and Tuesdays for the rest of the alphabet.
Wednesday through Saturday will be open to anyone, but volume and traffic may be much higher and filing may take longer.
“The new process will help relieve pressure on our system so that claims can be filed more easily and paid more quickly,” said ODJFS Director Kimberly Hall. “Once a claim is processed, payment can be made by direct deposit within three business days.”
Over the past few weeks, ODJFS has faced widespread criticism for the lack of coherency and simplicity in filing and receiving benefits. 3News’ Rachel Polansky conducted one investigation that showed many who attempt to file for benefits over the phone face hours in waiting times, and often are hung up on.
The state is hoping that these issues may be able to be resolved with the new system being put in place.
To file a claim for unemployment, visit unemployment.ohio.gov or call (877) 644-6562.