Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) has announced a new partnership with an identity verification service, ID.me, to modernize the state’s approval process for unemployment claims. Effective Jan. 2, Iowans filing for unemployment will have the option to use ID.me to verify their identity. This streamlined process is projected to accelerate initial claims verification and improve efficiency. By April 1, ID.me will become mandatory for all claimants, potentially leading to delays for those who opt not to utilize it. IWD Director Beth Townsend says, “Our new partnership with ID.me will strengthen our unemployment system as a whole by reducing fraudulent claims and making it easier for claimants to establish their identity when they file without the need for additional follow-up steps. It benefits claimants and employers to have a secure unemployment system, and today’s efforts will help us maintain the integrity of the fund for years to come.” While new to Iowa, ID.me has been utilized in 31 states, across multiple federal agencies, and 500+ name-brand retailers. Learn more about IWD’s new verification process by following the links included below.
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