AK Department of Labor and Workforce Development

Disaster Unemployment Assistance Deadline Extended to April 3, 2026

The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development has extended the application deadline for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) to April 3, 2026, for individuals affected by severe storms, flooding, and Typhoon Halong remnants that occurred October 8–13, 2025, in Western Alaska. As of February 3, 2026, the Kashunamiut Regional Educational Attendance Area, Yupiit REAA, and City of Saint Mary's were added to the disaster declaration for Individual Assistance. Eligible applicants may receive $153 to $370 per week for up to 27 weeks beginning the week ending October 25, 2025.

Alaska January 2026 Jobs Report Shows 0.1% Gain

Alaska's statewide employment increased by 200 jobs (0.1%) from January 2025 to January 2026, according to the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development. The transportation, warehousing and utilities sector led gains with 900 new jobs, followed by private education and health care (800) and manufacturing (700). Job losses occurred in professional and business services (-300) and information (-200). Government employment fell by 2,400 jobs, nearly canceling private sector gains. Alaska's unemployment rate was 4.8% versus the U.S. rate of 4.3%.

Alaska Wins Gold for Unemployment Insurance Data Exchange Award

The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development's Unemployment Insurance Program received the Gold Award from the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) on April 16, 2026, at the SIDES Seminar in Denver, Colorado. Alaska was recognized for achieving 100% connection with SIDES integrated partners—companies or organizations whose internal software is directly connected to the State Information Data Exchange System for automatic data exchange. The award highlights Alaska's successful electronic integration with all SIDES partners, enabling employers and Third-Party Administrators to process UI information exchanges through standardized web-based programs instead of manual paper forms.