COVID-19 Job Seeker Resources

Lost your job? We're here to help!

Federal CARES Act Update

The U.S. Congress has passed a COVID-19 relief package which will extend federal unemployment programs (PUA and PEUC) through March 14 and will provide an additional $300 per week for anyone receiving unemployment benefits.

Unemployment claimants receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) will not be able to complete certifications and payments will not be issued for weeks after Dec. 26 until the UIA receives further guidance from the USDOL and the changes are implemented.

The UIA is working as quickly as possible to restore these programs. Please continue to check the UIA website for updates. There is no need to contact UIA customer service number regarding the new laws and programs. Click here to learn more.

I lost my job. Now what?

Your first step is to file for unemployment benefits online www.michigan.gov/uia or by phone by calling, (866) 500-0017. You do not need to report to Michigan Works! after filing your claim for unemployment benefits.

For Unemployment Insurance benefit questions, individuals should call 1-866-500-0017 or send inquiries at www.michigan.gov/uia There are new chat features available through their online unemployment insurance (MIWAM) account.

Please Note:

The Unemployment Agency’s system is experiencing very high traffic, and this may result in slow service or technical difficulties. Please be patient and try again based on your last name.

Frequently Asked Questions Related or Unrelated to COVID-19

1 Q: I lost my job, what do I do?
A. File a claim for unemployment benefits online or by phone. See “Next Steps” on this document.
2 Q: I cannot get through to the Unemployment Agency, what do I do?
A: Please practice patience and keep trying. Your questions can also be answered through their chat feature online at www.michigan/gov/uia. Scroll to the bottom of the page and click on “MIWAM for Workers.”
3 Q: Do I need to come into Michigan Works! after I file my claim for unemployment?
A: No, this requirement has been lifted at this time
Click here to view the COVID-19 General Public Toolkit
UI File Your Claim By Last Name
  • Apply for unemployment benefits on-line at www.michigan.gov/uia, or by phone (866-500-0017)
  • Based on the Executive Order, 2020-10, for those filing for unemployment as a result of COVID-19 - Benefits will be increased from 20 weeks to 26 weeks. The application eligibility period has been increased from 14 to 28 days, and the requirement to report to a Michigan Works! Office has been suspended.
  • Search for employment opportunities on MITalent.org
  • For Unemployment Insurance benefit questions, individuals should call 1-866-500-0017 or apply online at www.michigan.gov/uia There are new chat features available through their online unemployment insurance (MIWAM) account.

Changes to Our Services

Effective Thursday, March 26th, Michigan Works! Southeast will modify service delivery to all virtual services for Hillsdale, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston and Washtenaw counties in response to Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order “Stay Home, Stay Safe”. The number one priority of Michigan Works! Southeast is the safety of our team members, customers, partners and the communities we serve. As a result of COVID-19, we are rapidly changing the way in which we provide services to our customers.

Click here to book a virtual appointment

Services you can access from your mobile device, tablet or computer include:

Applying for unemployment benefits on-line at www.michigan.gov/uia, or by phone (866-500-0017)

Search for employment opportunities on MITalent.org

Information & Resources Related to Unemployment

Executive Order 2020-10

What You Should Know When Claiming UI Benefits

Unemployment Handbook

COVID-19 FAQ's from State of Michigan

Consumer Alert on Unemployment Misinformation on Social Media