State issues debit cards for unemployment benefits

SYRACUSE - The state will issue debit cards to 200,000 New Yorkers to make it easier for them to collect unemployment benefits, state Labor Department spokesman Rob Lillpopp said. The agency is sending the cards to everyone in the state who collects unemployment. The funds will be deposited into Chase bank accounts each week, saving the state $4 million a year, Lillpopp said. Those receiving unemployment can apply online and receive their debit cards within 10 to 14 days, Lillpopp said. The cards have a MasterCard logo and work like any other debit card and does not extract a fee from Chase or Allpoint ATMs. Standard fees apply when money is withdrawn from other bank machines. The system went into effect Sept. 10. The average unemployment check is $278 a week, and the most anyone can receive is $405. About 200,000 people collect unemployment statewide, Lillpopp said. On the Net: State Labor Department: www.labor.state.ny.us