These guidelines summarize provisions from Title 20, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 5, Part 603: Federal-State Unemployment Compensation Program (UC); Confidentiality and Disclosure of State UC Information.
You can view the full regulation at: https://ecfr.io/Title-20/pt20.3.603
Confidentiality Requirements
The Virginia Employment Commission (VEC) must protect the confidentiality of any UC (Unemployment Compensation) information that:
- Reveals the name or any identifying particular about any individual or employer
- Could be combined with other publicly available information to reveal such particulars
(§ 20 CFR 603.4(b))
Permissible Disclosures of Confidential UC Information
Confidential UC (UI) information may be disclosed:
- To the Subject of the Information
- About an individual to that individual
- About an employer to that employer
- With Informed Consent
Disclosure may be made:- To an agent with a written release from the individual or employer being represented
- To an attorney retained for UC-related purposes, with a letter of representation
- To a third party (not an agent), with a signed written release that:
- Identifies all parties who may receive the information
- States the specific purpose(s) for the information and that it will be used only for those purposes
- Limits the purpose to:
- (A) Providing a service or benefit expected by the individual signing the release, or
- (B) Administering or evaluating a public program
- States that state government files will be accessed
- Specifically identifies the information to be disclosed
- To Public Officials
- Or their agents/contractors, for use in performing official duties
(See §§ 20 CFR 603.2(d) & 603.5(e))
- Or their agents/contractors, for use in performing official duties
Definitions of UC Information
Wage Information
Includes records about:
- Wages paid to an individual
- Social Security Number
- Name, address, and employer identification number of the employer
Claim Information
Includes records about:
- Whether an individual is receiving, has received, or has applied for benefits
- Amount of compensation received or entitled
- Current or most recent home address and telephone number
Requesting Confidential UC Information
All requests from public officials, agents (other than attorneys), or third parties must be directed to:
Information Control Unit
Email: InformationControl@vec.virginia.gov or call 804-486-2362.
Agreement Requirement
Before disclosing confidential UC information, the VEC must have a written, enforceable agreement with the requesting agency or entity.
(§ 20 CFR 603.10)
Methods of Disclosure
- Batch data match (via VEC’s secure FTP site for public officials)
- Electronic access for authorized users
- Written requests sent to:
Information Control, Suite 171
Virginia Employment Commission
Post Office Box 26441
Richmond, Virginia 23261-6441
Payment of Costs
Disclosure costs must be paid by the recipient or a designated third party, either in advance or by reimbursement.
(§ 20 CFR 603.8)
Current Costs
- Batch processing: $400 per matched file
- Electronic access: $1,300 per year
- Written requests: $8 per benefit and wage record, or $0.50 per page
Questions?
Please contact:
Email: InformationControl@vec.virginia.gov or call 804-486-2362.