The Maine Department of Labor said Friday it has fixed computer problems that delayed the processing of unemployment claims and payments to as many as 2,200 Mainers.

The computer problem halted the processing of unemployment checks, direct deposits and other notifications Tuesday and Wednesday.

Payments for most of the claims filed between Monday evening and Thursday afternoon have been processed. Most claimants who were affected by the delay should see benefits payments over the next few days, the Department of Labor said.

Claimants who filed over the weekend or during the day Monday should have received payments as usual and were not affected by the glitch.

“We know people need to pay critical bills at this time of year, and we apologize to those affected by this situation,” said Labor Commissioner Jeanne Paquette.

Because the system has been down, many people are expected to call to check on the status of claims. The Department of Labor said this may increase the wait times for those who need to speak to a claims representative.

The department encourages people to use the website www.file4ui.com or its automated phone system, 1-800-593-7660, to file or check on the status of claims. The best time to use the automated phone system is before 8 a.m. or after 5 p.m.


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