Established in the mid-1980’s, and now known as Benefit Accuracy Measurement (BAM), the benefit quality control program is designed to measure and demonstrate the extent to which payments of unemployment benefits are made in accordance with law and policy. BAM uses a statistically valid sample of claims and includes a detailed examination of the processes and procedures used by the department in awarding benefits. In the early 2000’s, a new process to measure the accuracy of “denied claims”, in other words, those claims where the worker was found not to be eligible for payment, was added to the BAM program.

The BAM program is a system and is also designed to detect both error and fraud in the Unemployment Insurance program. Each week, claims are randomly selected for audit. The audit includes a review of employer records, along with agency actions, records and statements of the selected workers. Eligibility is thoroughly investigated and payroll records are verified. The unemployed worker’s work search contacts are checked and all records and actions relating to the claim are reexamined. The audit makes certain the claim has been paid or denied correctly.

Further information for employers is available in our publication BAM Information for Employers. (PDF form BAM-17) Likewise, further information for workers is available in our publication BAM Information for Claimants. (PDF form BAM-14)

The Benefit Accuracy Measurement program is administered by our Performance and Compliance Unit.