The State of Hawaii’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) Division is set to launch a major modernization effort with further implementation of the State Information Data Exchange System (SIDES). This will be a welcome and dramatic change to how employers participate in the UI claims process. Starting in October 2024, employers will be able to respond to UI claims electronically through this new platform, replacing mail and fax methods. This move is expected to enhance the accuracy, security, and efficiency of the claims process.
To help employers navigate this transition, Hawaii Employers Council (HEC) is partnering with the State’s UI Division to present a free, 30-minute webinar on September 9th, with a repeat session on September 10th. This is a crucial opportunity for employers to understand how the SIDES platform works and how it will affect their UI claims process, in advance of its implementation in October.
What is SIDES?
SIDES is a secure, web-based system that allows employers, third-party administrators (TPAs), and state UI agencies to communicate efficiently about unemployment insurance claims. Offered by the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA), SIDES creates a standardized platform for employers to respond to UI claims, reducing the need for paper-based processes and improving accuracy.
The platform provides a single, centralized location for handling UI claims, reducing errors and fraud, and ensuring a streamlined experience for users. It will be especially beneficial to multi-state employers as many states already use SIDES or are implementing it. Hawaii has already implemented one of the 6 exchanges offered by SIDES, but this implementation of two additional exchanges in October will be particularly impactful to employers.
Why Attend This Webinar?
All Employers in Hawaii will be automatically enrolled in SIDES, so this webinar will ensure that your business is ready for the shift, reducing the risk of delays or errors when responding to claims. Those unfamiliar with the system may struggle to comply with new electronic filing requirements.
Meet the Presenters:
Darnelle Faria and Brandi Kealoha, experienced specialists from the State of Hawaii’s UI Division, will lead the webinar. With years of expertise in unemployment insurance processes, they will explain the SIDES system, share its interface, and offer practical tips to ensure a smooth transition.
How to Register:
This free webinar is essential for employers looking to stay ahead of these upcoming changes. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn how SIDES can make UI claims management easier and more efficient for your business. Visit the registration pages to register for either the September 9th or 10th session.
Questions:
Assistance or questions on registering for this webinar can be directed to registrars@hecouncil.org