Delaware streamlines unemployment filing

Delaware workers who lose their jobs can now file for unemployment benefits online.

It’s another sign of the nation’s tough economic times.  So many people are inundating Delaware’s unemployment offices, that the state is now offering an online filing option.

The online application process was launched informally in mid-December, and since then, Delaware’s Unemployment Insurance Director Thomas MacPherson says the number of people taking advantage of the service has increased.  “Our usage grew from 18% in January to 30% in February, which shows that more people are taking advantage of the online filing option,” MacPherson said.  Since December, 5,206 people have filed for unemployment benefits online.

The online application is designed to reduce long wait times at the state’s unemployment offices.  Delaware Secretary of Labor John McMahon says, “We know people would rather be out looking for a job, versus standing in an unemployment claims line.”

The system is available from just about any device that is able to connect to the Internet, and there have already been some claims filed from iPhone users.

Delaware’s unemployment rate as of December was 9%, up from 8.6% in November.  The national unemployment rate as of December stands at 10%.