With the state's unemployment system overwhelmed by applicants during the pandemic, many are struggling to file for unemployment benefits. As system overload and crashes prevent many from filing their applications in a timely manner, the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) is assuring everyone who applies and is eligible to receive benefits that they will receive those benefits back-dated to the time each individual was laid off from their job due to COVID-19.

The UIA has a series of how-to videos to help navigate the unemployment system and assist you with filing a claim.

View the full playlist of videos for employees here.

Keep in mind, it’s best to apply online during non-peak hours, between 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. The 24-hour website operates faster when fewer people are on the site. Visit Michigan.gov/UIA to get started.

UIA Director Steve Gray answers FAQs about unemployment benefits

Watch the full video here.
Steve Gray, UIA Director

How to file a claim?

Watch the how to file a claim video here.

How to file for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)?

Watch the how to file for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance video here.

How to set up a MiWAM account?

Watch the how to create a MiWAM account video here.

How to claim your weeks of unemployment benefits?

Watch the how to claim your weeks of unemployment benefits video here.

Additional UIA resources

COVID-19 CARES Act
MiWAM Toolkit for Claimants
Unemployment Insurance 101
Claiming Unemployment Benefits in Michigan Fact Sheet
Information for Employees

All eligible workers will receive benefits

The UIA assures that every eligible worker in Michigan who applies for unemployment benefits will receive them. The UIA will be accepting claims and benefit applications back-dated to reflect the date on which the claimant was laid-off due to COVID-19, beyond the previously established 28-day period ($600 federal payment is only retroactive back to March 28).

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.