Kentucky – Final Reminder, Action Needed: Kentucky Unemployment Insurance Portal Launches August 17
On August 17, 2026, the new Kentucky Unemployment Insurance Portal (KUIP) will launch its tax functionality for employers. The system replaces Kentucky’s Unemployment Insurance Self-Service Web (KEWES). In order to ensure access to the new KUIP system and ensure a smooth transition, please confirm access to your KEWES account as soon as possible. It is also recommended to review and confirm all contact information and addresses within the KEWES system to ensure you receive important information as the new system launch nears.
The Kentucky Education and Labor Cabinet recently issued new Kentucky Employer Identification Numbers (KEIN) and a unique Activation Code to activate employer accounts in KUIP. Your new KEIN and KUIP Activation Code can be found on your current KEWES account or in the mailed correspondence sent to your physical address. Do not share this information with TPAs or other parties—this code provides your organization access to KUIP for your employer account. Through KUIP you will be able to grant additional access to TPAs and other representatives.
You can also check out the KUIP Modernization Project website for more information to ensure you are prepared for this transition.
Mississippi – Disaster Unemployment Assistance Benefits Available
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is now available to individuals who were affected by storm damage that occurred as a result of Tropical Storm Arthur from June 18-20, 2026. Impacted individuals in Hancock, Harrison, Pearl River, and Stone counties may be eligible for DUA benefits.
As a reminder, DUA is an unemployment insurance benefit made available after a disaster and is only available to individuals who:
- Have applied for and used all regular unemployment benefits from any state, or do not qualify for unemployment benefits.
- Worked or were self-employed or scheduled to begin work or self-employment in the disaster area.
- Can no longer work or perform services because of physical damage or destruction to the place of employment as a direct result of the disaster.
- Establish that the work or self-employment they can no longer perform was their primary source of income.
- Cannot perform work or self-employment because of an injury as a direct result of the disaster.
- Became the breadwinner or major support of a household because of the death of the head of household.
Individuals can apply online for DUA benefits. The application deadline is October 2,2026.