Starting on Wednesday, first-time applicants will be able to get their benefits set up over the phone instead of having to travel to the employment security commission office in person. Officials say first-time callers can expect to take about 20 minutes filling out their claims forms through the automated system.

After the first call, they can continue to request their benefits over the phone or online.

The number for the North Carolina Employment Security Commission is 877-841-9617. Employment officials recommend calling the number from a landline.