A new unemployment insurance system is on the way! Iowa Workforce Development (IWD) is modernizing its system to make applying for unemployment benefits easier, faster, and more secure. 

This will be the most significant upgrade for Iowa's unemployment insurance system in decades. For the first time ever, you now will be able to complete the unemployment process from one central location, iowaworks.gov. This system change will take place on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

With a simplified system, you will spend less time filing claims. This will leave more time and attention for you to focus on receiving whatever help you need to find a new career and reenter the workforce. 

IWD is providing several resources to help Iowans prepare for the new system.

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Preparing for the New System

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Iowans currently use multiple websites (and separate accounts) to complete the steps required by their unemployment claims. Going forward, all claim-filing steps now will take place on iowaworks.gov, simplifying this process.

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Important Dates

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The new unemployment system in IowaWORKS is replacing a decades-old system. In order to make this historic update, a one-time system pause will take place during the week before launch (May 28-June 2). Iowans will not be able to file for unemployment during this time, but they will still be able to receive career-related services from IowaWORKS centers across the state.

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Resources and Videos

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IWD has created several videos, resources, and instructions to help you prepare for this change. If you have any questions, contact us.

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