Connecticut Launches New Unemployment Benefits System

Earlier this month, Connecticut announced the launch of ReEmployCT, the state’s new unemployment tax and benefits system. Replacing a 40-year-old unemployment system, ReEmployCT serves approximately 115,000 businesses in Connecticut that pay into the Unemployment Trust Fund, as well as unemployed workers who are eligible for benefits.

“ReEmployCT is a significant step forward in Connecticut’s ability to provide modern services to its residents,” said Gov. Ned Lamont. “This new system is an important part of streamlining and modernizing government for everyone.”
 
ReEmployCT replaces several unemployment systems in use at the agency. It provides a single sign-on for claimants; brings features online to help claimants and employers reduce the need to mail or fax documents; and it reduces the number of times some companies must file their wage records. The system also improves CTDOL functions by reducing manual processing and providing better data about unemployment. Unlike the prior system, ReEmployCT is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
 
In a news conference to unveil the new system, the Governor said the state had paid down more than half the outstanding balance in the unemployment trust fund “organically,” according to CT NewsJunkie. He estimated the remaining debt at around $200 million. (Connecticut borrowed $952.5 million to pay unemployment benefits during the pandemic.) “One of the things we wanted to do is make darn sure…that none of our small businesses would have to pay any additional unemployment fees this calendar year or next calendar year,” he said. The Governor said he hoped the state would pay down the remaining debt in the next two years. If not, he said, “we’ll have to see about perhaps making another payment to make sure it doesn’t fall on the backs of small business.”