Debit card service for unemployment benefits ends in La.

Louisiana residents who currently receive unemployment benefits by debit card have until Tuesday, Oct. 27, to change to direct-deposit banking or their benefits will be delivered as a paper check through the U.S. Postal Service, according to a press released issue by the Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC).

The change in the options for receiving benefits is necessary because JPMorgan Chase, which has provided the debit card service, is exiting that business line.

Existing claimants will be able to use balances remaining on their debit cards after Oct. 27; however, no new money will be deposited on the cards.

Claimants can choose the direct deposit option by logging on to HiRE account at www.laworks.net clicking “Unemployment Services” and selecting “Update Banking Information.”

All claimants who do not choose the direct-deposit option by Oct. 27 will receive benefits via paper checks mailed to the address on file with the LWC. Claimants may contact the LWC toll-free with any questions or concerns at 1-866-783-5567.

This article originally published in the October 26, 2015 print edition of The Louisiana Weekly newspaper.