Reporting Benefit Tax Information

Find FAQs about unemployment insurance and COVID-19

Are unemployment insurance benefits taxable?

Unemployment insurance benefits are taxable, and if you collected or repaid unemployment insurance benefits you are required to file a tax return for payments received or repaid. This information is reported to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

What do I need from the Department of Labor to file my taxes?

If you collected unemployment insurance benefits you’ll receive a summary of the benefits you received from the Idaho Department of Labor by the end of January. This form, otherwise known as an IRS form 1099-G, will be sent to your last known address.

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

1099-Gs are mailed at the end of January. If you did not receive your statement in the mail, the address you have on file may be incorrect. It is your responsibility to make sure the Idaho Department of Labor has the most up-to-date and accurate address.

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. Unemployment insurance 1099-G information will be available online by Jan. 31 at labor.idaho.gov/claimantportal. It can be found in the “Manage Claims” section of the Claimant Portal. Select the “1099-G Reporting” option on the right-hand side of the screen.

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

Benefits are reported based on the payment released date, not on the week ending date(s) the payment was made. Prior to contacting us, verify your payments online at labor.idaho.gov/claimantportal and select the “View Certifications and Payments” option in the Manage Claims section.

If you still do not agree with the amount on your 1099-G after reviewing your payment summary, please call us at (208) 332-8942.

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

Yes. You may choose to have 10 percent withheld for federal taxes. Tax withholdings can be changed in the “Manage Claims” section of the Claimant Portal. Select the “Tax Withholding” option if you would like to change your tax withholdings.

What if I repaid an overpayment?

Your 1099-G will include any repayments received, excluding penalties and interest, which are not included because they are not PAID benefits.

Can I request a 1099-G from prior years?

Yes, you can view prior year 1099-Gs online at labor.idaho.gov/claimantportal.

I thought I paid into unemployment through taxes already? Why am I being taxed again?

The unemployment insurance benefits program is funded by employers through quarterly payroll taxes. Your benefits are considered income and are therefore taxable.

What if I did not receive a W-2 from my employer? Can you give me that information?

We are not allowed to provide employer tax identification numbers. Please contact the IRS at (800) 829-1040 for help obtaining your W-2.

What if I have already filed my taxes by the time I received by
1099-G form?

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.

What if I have other questions about my taxes?

Return to unemployment insurance FAQ