What are the requirements to use SIDES and SIDES E-Response? SIDES E-Response requires only a working internet connection and an employee who will enter the needed information. SIDES requires programming to connect an employer’s or TPA’s internal IT system to the SIDES central broker.
How much does it cost to use SIDES and SIDES E-Response? Both systems are offered free of charge to employers and TPAs, although there will be internal IT system development costs to integrate SIDES.
Which states have adopted SIDES and SIDES E-Response? As of September 30, 2012, 42 states will be using SIDES and SIDES E-Response. To find out if your state is participating, please visit http://info.uisides.org.
How secure are SIDES and SIDES E-Response? Both SIDES and SIDES E-Response have multiple layers of security. SIDES E-Response uses secure communication protocols, and SIDES requires authentication certificates and uses encrypted records and files. The highest standard of security is important given the sensitive data exchanged between state UI agencies and employers and TPAs.
What UI system was in place before SIDES and SIDES E-Response? Before SIDES and SIDES E-Response, state UI agencies requested information from employers and TPAs via a slow, manual, paper-based mail process.
What are the main causes of UI overpayments? Yes. Both options have the potential to reduce UI overpayments while improving the UI information exchange process.
Are SIDES and SIDES E-Response expected to reduce UI overpayments? Yes. Both options have the potential to reduce UI overpayments while improving the UI information exchange process.
How does an employer or TPA determine which option is best suited for its business? IDES E-Response is best suited for employers or TPAs with a limited number of annual UI claims. It requires only a working internet connection and an employee who will enter the needed information. SIDES is best suited for larger employers facing many potential UI claims throughout the year. It provides a more automated data exchange interface between employers’ and TPAs’ IT systems and state agency networks.