Are unemployment insurance benefits taxable?

Yes. Benefits are fully taxable income. You may choose to have 10% of your unemployment benefits withheld for federal taxes. Idaho Labor can’t withhold for state taxes. We will mail you and the IRS a Form 1099-G by the end of January. This form shows the total amount of benefits you were paid the previous year. You need this to file income taxes, so keep your address updated. You can also view your 1099-G form on the Claimant Portal. If you were paid benefits by another state, that state will report your tax information. If you have questions about your taxes, contact the IRS or a tax consultant.

Can I change my tax withholding on my unemployment insurance payments?

Yes. You can change your federal tax withholdings in the Account section of the Claimant Portal. Select Change Tax Withholding if you would like to set your withholdings.

What if I didn’t receive my 1099-G in the mail?

1099-Gs are mailed at the end of January. If you didn’t get your statement in the mail, check your address information on the Claimant Portal. It is your responsibility to make sure the Idaho Labor has your current address. If you were paid benefits by another state, that state will report your tax information. If you have questions about your taxes, contact the IRS or a tax consultant. IMPORTANT: Your 1099-G includes your entire Social Security number. Failing to update your address could put your identity at risk.

Can I access my 1099-G information online?

Yes. Your 1099-G information will be available online by Jan. 31 on the Claimant Portal. To view it, click the History tab and select the 1099-G Reporting link.

What if I disagree with the amount listed on my 1099-G?

Check your payment information on the Claimant Portal. Click the Manage Claims tab to see your paid benefits. Benefits are reported based on the “payment released” date, not the week ending date.

If you still disagree with the amount on your 1099-G after a review, please call us at (208) 332-8942.

What if I repaid an overpayment?

Your 1099-G will include any repayments you made. Your 1099-G won’t include penalties and interest because these are not benefits paid to you.

Can I request a 1099-G from prior years?

Yes, you can view prior year 1099-Gs online on the Claimant Portal.

What if I have other questions about my taxes?

We are not authorized to instruct you on how unemployment insurance affects your taxes. Please contact the Idaho State Tax Commission at (208) 334-7660, (800) 972-7660 or the Internal Revenue Service at (800) 829-1040.

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