The Michigan Unemployment rate is 10.6%, the highest in the nation. More and more working class people are having a difficult time finding work. This is a challenging and confusing time. Thankfully, the Michigan Unemployment Insurance program is available to help keep you afloat. Undoubtedly, you have many questions about this program and how to access Michigan Unemployment Benefits. The purpose of this blog is to provide answers to frequently answered questions. Sign up to receive free tips and information on how to make it through this tough economic period.

What is the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Program?

Michigan Unemployment Insurance is a state/federal funded program that provides temporary financial assistance for unemployed workers.

How do I qualify for assistance?

To be eligible for Michigan Unemployment benefits, you must be unemployed and able to, available for, and actively seeking suitable full-time work. Unless instructed otherwise by UIA staff, you must also register for work within two to three business days of applying for benefits by filing your resume with the Michigan Talent Bank and by reporting to your local Michigan Works! Agency service center.

How do I apply?

A claim for unemployment benefits begins the week it is filed. Therefore, you should file your claim for benefits during your first week of unemployment. There are two ways in which to file a claim:

1. Internet - www.michigan.gov/uia

The website is available from 7:00 a.m. Monday through 7:00 p.m. Saturday (Eastern Time). If you need a computer with Internet access, visit your local public library. Most have computers with Internet connections available for public use.

2. Telephone - call our special toll-free telephone number, 1866- 500-0017. You can call and file by using a touch-tone telephone from anywhere in the United States and Canada. Your scheduled time for filing by telephone is based on the last two digits of your Social Security number.

8:00am – 12:30pm –

12:30pm 4:30pm

Mon 00-15 16-33

Tues 34-48 49-66

Wed 67-81 82-99

Thurs –Fri Open call in

Once you file your new claim, you will be mailed:

· A determination showing if you qualify based on the wages you have earned, the amount of weekly benefits and the number of weeks you may receive.

· If there is an eligibility issue with your claim, you will receive a separate notice.

· A booklet with detailed information about your rights and responsibilities for unemployment benefits. Please read this material carefully.

How much can I collect in benefits?

Your Michigan Unemployment Benefits are based upon the income you received during your base period (the 15 months prior to your application for benefits).

Your weekly benefit amount is determined by multiplying the highest amount of wages paid to you in any base period quarter by 4.1%, plus $6 for each dependent you claim, up to five dependents. The weekly benefit amount is capped at $362.

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