Does PA UC deposit benefits via direct deposit or only through Money Network card in 2025?

PA UC definitely still offers both payment methods. You can choose either direct deposit or the Money Network debit card. When you filed your initial claim, there should have been a section where you selected your payment preference. If you didn't specify, they default to the debit card. You can change your payment method any time by logging into your dashboard and going to 'Payment Information' under 'Unemployment Services.

ya both still work I do direct deposit its WAY better, money in my account by tuesday usually. no fees!! the card is fine 2 but has atm fees if u dont use the right machines

Your neighbor is WRONG! I've been on UC since January and they definitely still have direct deposit. The Money Network card is actually not bad though - there are no fees as long as you use it right. I have mine set up to automatically transfer the full amount to my checking account each week with no charge. But direct deposit is simpler if you prefer that.

To set up direct deposit, go to www.uc.pa.gov and log into your dashboard. Then click on 'Unemployment Services,' then 'Payment Information,' and finally 'Update Payment Type.' You'll need your bank routing and account numbers ready. Keep in mind that the first payment might still come on the debit card while they verify your banking info, which typically takes 1-2 business days. After that, all payments will go directly to your bank account. One more thing to note - if you ever switch from direct deposit back to the debit card, there's a 2-week processing period, but going from card to direct deposit is much quicker.

I tried calling PA UC for TWO WEEKS straight to change my payment method and couldn't get through 😡 Then I found this service called Claimyr that got me connected to an agent in under an hour! Just went to claimyr.com and they have this system that calls and waits on hold for you, then calls you when an agent is available. They have a video showing how it works here: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2 The agent was able to change my payment method immediately over the phone. Way easier than trying to figure out the website.

The PA unemployment system is such a joke. I requested direct deposit THREE TIMES on their website and they still sent me that stupid Money Network card. Then when I finally got it switched, they randomly switched me back to the card after 2 months for NO REASON. Had to spend hours on the phone to fix it. The whole system is designed to frustrate people into giving up on their benefits. Good luck!

UPDATE: I found the direct deposit section! For anyone else looking, after you log in, click on "Unemployment Services" and then look for "Update Payment Option" (not "Payment Information" like someone said above). I just set up my direct deposit, and it says my next payment will be deposited directly to my bank account. Thanks everyone for your help!

my cousin works for unemployment and she told me they're actually planning to phase out the Money Network cards completely by end of 2025, going all direct deposit. not officially announced yet tho

Just wanted to add that if you're having trouble finding your routing and account numbers, they're usually printed at the bottom of your checks - the routing number is the first 9 digits, and your account number comes after that. If you don't have checks, you can also find these numbers by logging into your online banking or calling your bank directly. Most banks also have this info listed on their mobile apps under account details. Make sure you're using a checking account for direct deposit, not a savings account, as some banks charge fees for ACH transfers to savings accounts.