Michigan State Unemployment, Stimulus and Tax Credit Programs – Latest News and Updates

With the end of pandemic stimulus and unemployment programs, many folks in Michigan are wondering where to turn to for extra help during these trying economic times where the cost of goods and services keep rising, while the US economy careens towards a recession.

This article provides some useful resources to find and updates on the state unemployment program and other free government money programs. This includes information on additional stimulus payments, unemployment programs, increase SNAP (food stamp) benefits and possible new or expanded state and federal tax credits.

How Much Unemployment Can I Get Paid In Michigan?

With the expiry the pandemic unemployment programs, only traditional/regular state unemployment is now available for full or partial unemployment claims. The table below provides key details on the latest unemployment benefits and qualifying wage requirements in the state.

You will need to submit a claim or certify your application via your state’s unemployment department to get your actual weekly benefit amount.

Note that to qualify for unemployment, your job or hours worked loss will generally need to be involuntary. I.e. through no fault of your own or via directly quitting. Your job and wages must also have been paid by an employer or source that deducted unemployment insurance taxes per state law (see your paycheck).

Further if you are being paid severance via a layoff or able to use sick leave or paid vacation, you cannot claim unemployment.

You will also need to certify for benefits at regular intervals (bi-weekly), demonstrate ongoing work availability and evidence of job search requirements to keep getting weekly unemployment benefits.

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Weekly Unemployment Available with Dependents (Min – Max)$0 – $362
$6 additional for each dependent, up to five dependents.
Number of Weeks covered in Benefit Year (Min – Max)14 – 20 weeks
Minimum Qualifying Wage Base$3,830 in at least one wage base quarter and total insured earned wages in base period = 1.5x the highest quarter of earnings
Michigan Unemployment Benefits Summary (source)

Why is my weekly benefit payment lower than the maximum amount?

Your actual weekly benefit amount (WBA) is the amount of money your state agency has determined you and your dependents may receive for regular unemployment insurance after filing a claim. This can change weekly based on your certification or claim for benefits.

Your actual WBA is based on the amount that you earned over the states pre-defined basic or alternate wage based period(s), which are generally based on four out of the last five completed calendar quarters spanning 12 to 18 months. Your actual WBA is calculated by multiplying the highest amount of wages paid to you in any base period quarter by 4.1 percent. 

The higher your earnings, the higher your approved WBA will be, up to the maximum amount allowed in the state.

Any part time or temporary earnings from employment or other activities during eligible weeks you are claiming and certifying for benefits, will potentially reduce the amount of benefits you may get.

Also note that that your state UI agency may deduct court-ordered child support from your weekly payment (by up to 65 percent) to pay your child support. This will reduce your WBA.

What if I worked or lived in another state?

If you worked or lived in another state during the base year, you should file your unemployment benefits claim in the state you worked in. Not where you reside at the time of claim.

Your claim will be paid and governed by laws of that state in which you applied for. You will need to report this on your state and federal income taxes per form 1099-G issued by the state’s UI agency.

Claimants will also need to apply or reapply for UI benefits when they reach the end of their benefit year. See further details in the claimant handbook.

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Michigan Pandemic Unemployment Programs – Waivers and Retroactive Payments

The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) continues to issue waivers claimants who submitted their gross pay instead of net pay when applying for jobless aid under the pandemic unemployment programs in effect over the last few years.

The latest (third) round of the payment waiver program to address confusing federal instructions, has erased nearly $70 million of potential liability for over 14,000 claimants that received overpayment notices in the last few months.

Overall, Michigan has waived over $4.5 billion in overpayments for nearly 484,000 people who claimed benefits through the federal program.

Claimants will automatically be sent notifications through their MiWAM account and the mail, and do not need to apply for these waivers.

However this only covers those claimants who got overpaid through fault of their own. Fraudulent claims are still being investigated and prosecuted.

For those who already returned money, refunds will be provided by the state unemployment agency.

End of Pandemic Unemployment Programs

The MI DUA has closed all pandemic unemployment – PEUC, PUA, MEUC and FPUC – programs as of September 6th.

Any active claims, with or without remaining balances, will expire after this date and any weeks after Sep 5th will NOT be paid. The only exception are retroactive payments for validated claims after a successful determination or appeal.

While there has been a lot of discussion around extending pandemic unemployment benefits, the Biden administration has confirmed (see video) that states will have to use already allocated stimulus funding to expand or extend traditional state unemployment programs.

Claimants will have to file any unemployment claims via state benefit programs.

Pandemic Unemployment Programs Background

Due to the massive volume of unemployment claims filed as the result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the state of Michigan has struggled to process claims on a timely basis. 

Technical challenges, lack of personnel to handle incoming phone calls, and new federal programs taxed their existing system and caused significant delays for people seeking unemployment benefits. Michigan has since quadrupled the number of personnel to process claims and handle phone calls, improving its ability to approve claims and pay out benefits. 

The Michigan (MI) Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (DOLEO) oversees a variety of employment, housing, and economic development initiatives for the state. The Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) is tasked with carrying out the unemployment insurance program, including processing claims and paying benefits for the federally funded enhanced benefit programs.

These have been extended several times after enactment last year. Jump to the relevant program extension to see more details around eligibility, payment dates/issues and weeks of coverage.

Please also see the hundred of comments at the end of the article where people have shared their stories, tips and struggles getting paid under one or more of these programs.

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25-week Unemployment Program Extensions Under Biden ARP Stimulus Package

Under President Biden’s $1.9 trillion federal coronavirus relief package, known as the American Rescue Plan (ARP), enhanced unemployment benefits will be extended until September 6th (week ending September 4th in Michigan). This includes the following extensions:

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) – The PUA program, designed for freelancers, gig workers and independent contractors or those that generally don’t qualify for regular state unemployment, has been extended by another 29 weeks (though actual weeks covered is 25). This brings the total number of weeks in the program to 79. The minimum PUA payment is still 50% of a states average weekly benefit amount and limited to the state’s maximum weekly benefit amount (WBA).

Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) – The new stimulus bill funds another 25 weeks of weekly supplementary/extra unemployment at the current $300 level. Payments for the $300 weekly payment will continue until early September for a total of 25 weeks and eligible claimants – those getting at least $1 from state and federal unemployment programs – can get a maximum of $7,500 if they qualify for all weeks covered in this new extension. The other $100 supplementary payment for Mixed Earners (MEUC) was also extended by 25 weeks.

Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) – The PEUC program, which extends coverage for those who have exhausted regular and extended state unemployment, has also been extended for another 29 weeks (though actual weeks covered is 25), bringing the total amount of PEUC coverage to 53 weeks.

There also provisions in the Biden Stimulus package for Unemployment tax breaks on the first $10,200 of benefits.

Payment Status of 25-week Extensions in Michigan – Latest News and Status on PUA, PEUC and $300 FPUC

Once the bill is signed into law by President Biden, the Department of Labor (DOL) will prepare and issue formal guidelines for states to implement the 25-week extensions. There could be a lapse in benefits as the CAA program coverage may end before states can update their program/systems to enable the 25-week of extensions funded under the ARP Program. I will post updates as they are released so stay tuned via the options below.

Claimants should continue to submit certifications as usual until the MI UIA implements the extensions. Contacting the UIA customer service number regarding the new legislation will not yield any additional information. I will post updates as the UIA releases additional information and you can follow via the options below.


Extended Benefits Program

The State’s Extended Benefits (EB) program, which is mostly federally funded, has also ended now as Michigan is no longer considered to be in a period of high unemployment. EB is triggered when a state’s jobless rate averages more than 8% for three consecutive months. This program provided up to 13 weeks of additional benefits and for claimants who have already been paid their maximum weeks of EB, their EB claim is considered exhausted and there are no more weeks of benefits under that program available. New claims cannot be filed for EB benefits either and job less workers would need to rely on the latest round of stimulus funded extensions.


2021 Unemployment Program Extensions Under COVID Relief Bill

The $900 billion COVID-19 relief package or Continued Assistance Act (CAA) was passed into law on Dec. 27, 2020, which among several other pandemic relief measures extends and provides additional federal funding for enhanced unemployment benefits. This includes the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) and a reinstatement, but halving of the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) Program which provides a $300 supplemental weekly unemployment payment.

These programs have been funded and extended for 11 weeks (on top of any state funded extensions), covering the weeks of December 27th, 2020 to March 14th, 2021. To receive the extra $300 FPUC weekly benefit, you must be receiving UI, PEUC, EB, or PUA for that given week.

Michigan (MI) UIA Payment Updates on 2021 Extensions – Latest News and Status on PUA, PEUC and $300 FPUC

Feb 21st Update: The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency has completed ALL system updates for the extended federal unemployment insurance (UI) programs under the CAA. All Eligible Claimants can now certify, reopen claims or apply for the extended 11 weeks of PUA and PEUC benefits funded under the CAA. This includes claims that had been exhausted once the original CARES Act weeks had expired. Claimants will be notified by UIA that they may apply for the extended programs beginning January 30. I have summarized the latest UIA guidance in the chart below. You can also see this video for MI PUA and PEUC updates.

Michigan (MI) UIA Payment Updates on 2021 Extensions under PUA and PEUC Unemployment Programs

If you notice any further delays of have any questions, leave a comment below. Otherwise stay tuned for further updates and possible 2021 extensions.

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Jan 29th update: UIA is still in the process of programming new system changes necessary to begin additional payments for PEUC and PUA claimants who have exhausted their benefit allowance on or before Dec. 26, 2020. The target date to complete the changes necessary to implement the additional 11 weeks on all PEUC and PUA claims is Jan. 30, 2021. Certification and payments will likely start flowing the week after that.

Claimants who did not exhaust their original 13 weeks of PEUC or their original 39 weeks of PUA will be able to claim the balance of remaining weeks beginning with the week ending Jan. 2, 2021. Payments will include the additional $300 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefit. However once they use up their benefit weeks, they will need to wait till the UIA makes their system updates to claim the extra 11 weeks.


From January 12th, the Michigan UIA has started issuing $300 weekly payments to claimants on regular state unemployment insurance (UI) and Extended Benefit programs. Claimants do not need to take any action to receive this additional weekly benefit, it will be paid automatically after certification.

From January 17th, those who were getting UI benefits under the PEUC and PUA and had benefit weeks remaining on their claim as of Dec. 26, 2020 (“active claimants”), can now begin certifying their claims through their MiWAM accounts. They will be able to claim the balance of remaining weeks beginning with the week ending Jan. 2, 2021. Payments will automatically include the additional $300 Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) benefit.

Claimants who Exhausted Benefits. Jobless workers on PUA or PEUC) who had exhausted their balances/weeks remaining prior to or on Dec 26, 2020 continue to have no actions to take at this time. Certifications and payments will not be issued for weeks after Dec. 26, 2020 until technical updates to the UI system are completed. The Michigan Labor Department is actively working on updates to their systems to extend benefits and renew the FPUC $300 supplemental payments to this group of claimants. They will be made whole once the extensions are fully implemented. You can see more on the $300 payment in this video tracking state payments.

UI claimants with existing or expired claim balances should be aware of the following general guidelines:

  • PUA and PEUC, FPUC will be automatically added to the claimants’ benefits if they are eligible for the weeks outlined in the new legislation.
  • Claimants with weeks remaining in UI should continue to file weekly claims (where possible)
  • Claimants who will have additional weeks in UI and PUA or PEUC due to state provisions (where applicable) should watch their state agency UI portal or website for updates that will allow additional weeks to be filed.
  • Claimants will be retroactively caught up on payments for all weeks they are eligible.
  • Claimants currently receiving benefits through the Extended Benefits program must finish all weeks of EB before receiving additional weeks of PEUC.

Extra $300 Unemployment under Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) program – NOW EXPIRED

The Michigan DOL/UIA has completed paying out on the Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) program which provided an additional $300 per week to Michiganders who are unemployed due to COVID-19.  Claimants whose current weekly benefit amount (WBA) is at least $100 received the additional $300 per week retroactive to the week ending August 1, 2020.

As of September 10th, the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) has started processing payments for Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) for eligible Michiganders. Due to the large volume of payments to be processed, workers will begin receiving LWA payments over the next week to ten days (to the end of September).

Payment Delays: MI Unemployment had a system crash last month and are trying to implement the self-certify questionnaire for UI claimants not on PUA. It was explained that when the LWA was first implemented it only mentioned/included PUA claimants as eligible. Since then, it has been realized that many UI claims need to be able to certify that they are off due to Covid also. They are now figuring out how to include these claims and get those under UI certified for the LWA. So you could be seeing delays because of this. See more on the MI LWA page.

The new Lost Wages program however does cut the federal benefit ($600 FPUC) in half for Michiganders since the state cannot afford to boost the benefit by the additional $100 state contribution requested by Trump.


COVID 19 Enhanced Benefits Under the CARES Act

Under the CARES act, there are three types of federal unemployment assistance available:

• Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA): expands eligibility for individuals who are typically ineligible for Unemployment benefits, including independent contractors, self-employed, and “gig” workers.  Recipients may receive up to 39 weeks of benefits under this program.

• Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC): adds $600 per week in addition to the regular benefits that recipients of Unemployment Insurance are entitled to receive; the benefit is retroactive to the week ending April 4, 2020, and the program expired on July 25, 2020. This program has now expired; however, the UIA includes the following on their website;

“While the President has enacted a series of executive orders regarding unemployment benefits, this program has not yet been implemented. All states are currently awaiting guidance from the US Department of Labor regarding implementation. There is no further information at this time. Stay tuned for updates.” a series of executive orders regarding unemployment benefits, this program has not yet

• Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC): provides an additional 13 weeks of Unemployment benefits to recipients of regular unemployment insurance.

The continued rise in the state’s unemployment rate caused Michigan to trigger 13 weeks of extended state benefits to those who have exhausted all other state and federal unemployment aid without returning to work permanently.  The Extended Benefit (EB) program was triggered on April 26, 2020. The EB program runs through December 26 and applies to unemployed individuals who have exhausted regular unemployment and PEUC benefits, whichever is later.

Web and/or phone issues with accessing the Michigan Unemployment system

Lack of personnel, technical difficulties, and the high volume of claims filed due to the coronavirus have strained Michigan’s unemployment system. Due to the unprecedented number of claims, the UIA encourages filing online. To speed up the online process, it is recommended that claims be filed online during the non-peak hours between 8:00 PM and 8:00 AM. The UIA acknowledges that load times may be slow on the website. They suggest giving pages time to load instead of clicking on links multiple times.

Existing Claimants: Claimants receiving unemployment benefits due to the coronavirus emergency must continue to certify every two weeks to receive the additional FPUC $600/week benefit. The extra $600/week compensation is retroactive to the week ending April 4 and ends on July 25. FPUC payments are automatically added to the weekly benefit payment. The UIA began issuing FPUC payments on April 10. Upon exhausting regular and PEUC benefits, eligible claimants must apply for the EB program. Existing claimants should track their current balance online to determine when to apply for EB.


Filing a Claim

You must create a new account through the Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM) here if you are filing a claim for the first time. Once you have created a username and password, log on to access online benefit services to complete your application.

Existing claimants can log in here to file their weekly claims. The days that you may file a claim online or over the phone are based on the first letter of your last name. You can then check the status of your claim here.

To receive unemployment benefits, you must certify for benefits every two weeks.  Certifications can be done online or over the phone. The certification schedule is based on the first letter of your last name. If you fail to certify during the reporting week, you need to tell the UIA as to why you are late as they determine if you are eligible to receive benefits for those two weeks. If you do not have good cause for filing late, your benefits may be denied for that period.

If there is a problem with your claim that must be resolved before benefits can be paid, or if you have been denied benefits and are appealing the determination, you must still certify for and claim your benefits on time. If it is determined that you are eligible or if you win your appeal, you will be paid these benefits retroactively. However, if you have not claimed benefits and you win your appeal, you will not be paid for these weeks.

If you need help filing your claim or with online services, call toll-free (866) 500-0017 (Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM)

To apply online for Unemployment Insurance benefits (recommended), you must have:

  • Worked in Michigan in the last 18 months
  • Worked for a covered employer that paid in UI

You can also apply by phone.

If applying online, you will need the following information:

  • Social Security Number
  • Driver’s license or state identification card
  • Current address, phone number, and date of birth
  • Employment history for the past 18 months including;
    • Employers’ business names and addresses
    • First and last date that you worked for each employer
    • Reason you are no longer working for each employer
  • Your most recent employer’s Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) account number or Federal ID number (which is found on your W-2 form)
  • Alien Registration number and the date your work authorization expires if you are not a US citizen

Why did I receive a stop payment indicator notice on my account?

The UIA has taken additional steps to prevent identity theft and fraud attempts on the state’s unemployment program. To protect claimants, additional information may be requested to verify identity and eligibility. Claimants who receive this notice on their account will be emailed instructions advising them how to submit the requested information to receive your benefits. If you have not received this notice, there is no need to act at this time.

“Stop Payment Indicator” Notice. If you received a “Stop Payment Indicator” notice on your account, detailed instructions have been emailed and mailed to you on how to submit additional identifying information in order to receive your benefits. There is no reason to take further action until you receive the instructions.

See additional FAQ from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity about employment benefits

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137 thoughts on “Michigan State Unemployment, Stimulus and Tax Credit Programs – Latest News and Updates”

  1. My goodness! They refuse to pay the PEUC. But it is not updates in the MIWAM Policy Book. We are tired of the excuses with this Agency. The Director does not have a phone number or email? Where is our Tax Money & UIA Benefits. I.worked 18 Months in the Pandemic. I think if I worked During the Pandemic, I should receive Pandemic Payments? I have been told no.no, no.

    Reply
  2. According to the online information regarding your 2020 taxes, which you calculated as unemployment earnings, can now be amended in the state of Michigan. Unlike your federal, that the IRS will be amending for you automatically, without you having to do it, Michigan does not provide a form or instructions on how to amend. Please help? anyone?

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  3. Now when you try to re-apply for PUA – you get “Client Log Key” page that you can’t advance through to complete the app.
    Tell me this isn’t deliberate.

    Reply
  4. I was recieving unemployment until dec 19th and It says i have 40 weeks to claim but it hasnt let me claim anything in months. There ate no letters or anything new. I been calling been trying the chat thing I lost my car because i couldnt make my payments so now i have no transportation to find a job. I dont understand if i have weeks available why cant i claim them. ? ??????

    Reply
  5. My son has had to quarantine twice because of exposures at daycare. Now Michigan is enforcing a mask mandate for 2-4 year olds but he has asthma and cannot easily wear a mask all day. I see Michigan on March 31 stopped the qualification to get unemployment if you voluntarily quit to take care of your children due to a quarantine or school closure. Are there any exceptions to this? Would I possible be eligible for the PUA or other programs? I appreciate your feedback.

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  6. The last 2 times that unemployment benefits were updated I received a notice saying I don’t qualify for PUA, only to be told I do qualify later. This causes more stress that I do not need.

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    • I swear the state is doing it on purpose…Because if there really is dumb as the letters they send out they should be shut down immediately and everybody fired!

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      • So you blame everyone at UIA because some are not good? Sounds very understanding. How would you like it if you had a coworker who screwed up but everyone in the company, including you gets fired?

        Reply
        • Hey when the general experience with MIWAM is negative…and several thousands are dealing with the same inexcusable website glitches for over a year…it’s the whole damned enchilada. The website was either designed by complete idiots or it’s mucked up by design.

    • Michigan’s handling of UB is a colossal failure, to say the least.
      Our leadership is acting like royalty and treating us like peasants.
      Hey Whitmer! Fix the mess you created!

      Reply
      • Ridiculous. Gov. Whitmer inherited the UIA computer system from the Snyder administration. It’s outsourced to a vendor. If it’s so easy why don’t you program it. I am SO tired of uninformed people blaming the governor for everything. Look a little deeper into the issues or stop complaining.

        Reply
      • You’re an idiot and a troll. I’m replying to the comment you made to me up above, which for some reason doesn’t have a reply button.

        Reply
  7. Hi Andy,
    Many are wondering about PUA and EB. The state announced Additional Weeks of EB and PUA have ended. What everyone is wondering will those programs be reinstated with the new bill. Thank you so much

    Reply
  8. I have verified my identity, and have been able to certify from Dec 16, 2020 until now Feb 28, 2021 but it has also been saying stop payment Indicator on every certification. I have no flagged notifications telling me I need to do or submit any extra information. It has been impossible to get through over the phone and Miwam does has not answered any messages I have sent to them. I am at a stand still all while having no more options. Can anyone help me resolve this issue please?

    Reply
    • Don’t you have the option to “chat”
      I had a quick response when I opened up a chat with customer service ? Had my problem resolved quickly

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      • I have NEVER been able to get through with chat. I open it up, get a message saying try again later, but keep getting the same message.

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        • we’re having the same problem. all of our weeks (both my husband and myself) keep getting stop payment indicators. we were told it was to verify our identity. which we did two months ago and again a month ago because it flagged and said to do so. Michigan is failing big time getting the people help!

  9. I have been waiting a year for my payments they let me certified but want send me no payments I’ve reached out to the Governor an still no help Michigan is the worst state om helping they people it’s sad that we have to struggle an wait for our payments this long I don’t understand how they go to work every day but ain’t nothing get done I called over a thousand times still nothing I don’t know what else to do but call the Governor ever day until I receive my payments

    Reply
    • Did you try looking in the messages and letters section ( correspondance) in your active claim? They are sneaky like that on there. Hope this helps.

      Reply
    • You will have more help if you contact your state representative. I know many that went the Governor route and nothing then went to state representative and then they got help. Hope this helps.

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    • I absolutely can relate to that it is so frustrating and honestly just so crappy that they can do this to us. Single mom of a seven-year-old girl and a four-month-old boy, doing everything by myself relying on that kind of stuff. And it can just be delayed. Or better yet cut off, no warnings out of nowhere. Then randomly reinstated without communicating in any way. I bet they don’t delay Pelosi‘s or Biden‘s or anyone else’s checks. just ours. After they drastically take away

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      • Stop blaming Biden and Pelosi. They have zero to do with Michigan’s unemployment system. They are the reason you have any benefits now through September 2021.

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    • I have been receiving a stop payment indicator for a year now also ! They sent me a letters a couple different times saying I am initiated to the benefits , so I certified, then they place another stop payment. They will not respond to me or tell me what I need to do next ! Everything I have is now in late fees and collections. I don’t know what to do I had a business, some savings and Michigan shut it down , cost me all my savings and now holds up the unemployment. The state officials that run this should be stripped of everything they have until the help the people

      Reply
    • Call Michigan Works in Southfield keep trying once you get through ask for the unemployment office they’ll connect you direct with a live person .good luck

      Reply
  10. I filed a new claim Jan 3,202 for regular UI. Was asked to verify my ID on the 15th. Done. I am now certified for 6 weeks and can’t get those checks released. With nowhere to turn/ no on to help me where do I turn? UIA personnel have been told to direct callers to the United Way and food stamp office. We should not be forced to beg from charity because UIA can’t get it together.

    Reply
    • Ok. It’s me again. 10 weeks into my UI claim and the uia still won’t release my funds. I received a notice dated 02/22/2021 that my ID has been verified and my claim is legit. It’s now 03 09. Why won’t my 10 weeks be released to me?

      Reply
      • Hi Martha,

        Just won all 3 of my appeals for my claims from August 2021. Today is 02/02/2023, and I do not have my money. They sent me a bill for $1086. I appealed it and then it was removed. They haven’t released the money though. My claim says Additional Claim Needed. I go to create a claim and it says that the dates are too old to file a claim. They dragged my case out to the point that I can’t get my money released even after proving before a judge that I was not at fault and I filed everything timely.

        Reply
  11. Trying to understand the Extended Benefits (EB) Program in Michigan.
    “Claimants currently receiving benefits through the Extended Benefits program must finish all weeks of EB before receiving additional weeks of PEUC.”
    Is the EB still triggered ON in Michigan??
    According to michigan.gov if you are on EB you stay on EB and no action is needed, but now my EB claim is closed.
    Anyone know??

    Reply
    • Yes you are required to open a new claim. Rules.. click on to your claim number then go to claimant services and follow instructions. You will then be put on PUEC.

      Reply
  12. I was given an additional 17 weeks with the new stimulus package but can not being certifying them. I have googled everything and gotten to this post to look for answers. I was sent an email saying do not contact unemployment.

    Reply
    • You need to call the 0017 number and sort out your issue. If your claimant services page says needs more docs means you need to send proof of employment. W2 or whatever

      Reply
  13. I actually got through to unemployment today, as I was waiting on hold I had my son call MARVIN and MARVIN allowed him to certify for weeks past Dec. 26 which we were unable to do on MiWam. As he was certifying on MARVIN unemployment came on the line and I told him that my son was on MARVIN and it was allowing him to certify because we couldn’t certify past Dec. 26 online and he put me on hold again and fixed it and were able to certify the last three weeks and payment is pending! Praise the Lord! I am no longer certifying under the PUA, I am certifying under a previously denied UI claim?! So that was interesting and am also getting 32.00 more wba than i was under PUA. Good luck yall, hope you can get yours soon too, try MARVIN – I also did wait for the interpreter prompt as someone stated above, maybe thats how I got to talk to a live person?

    Reply
  14. Wish someone could answer this question. My last claim week was Dec 19th. That was my last claim as I have exhausted my pua of 39 weeks. My account isn’t giving any information. Just looks like it’s closed. My last week I sent michigan unemployment a message asking about the 13 week extension. Only instead of answering my question they closed my account. According to the website it says that I would get the extension and to continue filing. Only there is no way to certify for any weeks. What do I do? Start a new claim? Wait until they catch up? Or am I just not getting the extension? They have no information for anyone who exhausted the 39 weeks already and waiting to see if we get the 13 week extension. Please someone answer this.

    Reply
    • You are in the same boat as all of us. Supposedly you are not to reapply. This is all that they will say. Could be up to 7 weeks delay. Michigan can hold the money draw interest and keep it while we wait. They are saying they are waiting instructions from dept of labor but thats a lie. Other states already paying. So we are stuck.

      Reply
      • They really aren’t holding our money to collect interest. What they need to do is difficult technically and they didn’t get (and may still not have) all the information they need about the legislation. Ot was just signed recently and there were the holidays. Patience grasshopper.

        Reply
    • Hey, love! I had the same issue of not being able to certify. I’m assuming you’re referring to them being grayed out? You can click the date of the claim (in gray) and it’ll take you to the page where you’re able to certify. Only one of the two dates has a link to verify your most recent two weeks so if the one you initially click doesn’t have them, try the other one! Hope this helps.

      Reply
    • We had the same problem. Called the unemployment 0017 number and they explained to go under the claimant services tab and renew you PUA. We did that and then certified our weeks back from Dec through current. Now we are in review but it was a step forward.

      Reply
    • The same applied to me. It is now in June of 2022 and I still show to have weeks left, but could not and cannot apply for them. NOBODY IS ANSWERING ME AT MIWAM. Now I can’t even get in, as there is another technical MILOGIN problem.
      Were you able to resolve this? Any advice?

      Reply
  15. So if I am reading right there is an extension after Dec 26 2020?????????????????????????? That’s like in a week it runs out. what the heck I haven’t even found a job yet and I have been applying since like August to every where.

    Reply
  16. It is currently November 30th and I still not received any additional $300 payment whatsoever. Is anyone in this boat?

    Reply
  17. I’m confused. I’m on pua. My account is locked due to forgotten password. Haven’t been able to access miwam for 45 days now. I’ve had to certify on Marvin. It says on Marvin I have 3 weeks left but when I could access miwam it said end date was December 26th? I too only received one LWA payment on September 14th. I found a number for miworks 1-800-285-9675. It said they could help you get through to unemployment. I called yesterday and I’m on their list to call today. They have a direct line to uia and get you to an agent then they hang up she said. I’ve been trying to call them for 45 days, every day, multiple xs a day to no avail. I’m really hoping on getting some much needed questions answered. I will post any useful information I may find out.

    Reply
  18. Trying to find out if LWA back pays for weeks unemployed after the cares act $600 ran out? I had 5 weeks of unemployment benefits only, after the cares act $600. Do I qualify for the LWA $300 for those weeks? I have since been back to work. Please no judgement, we all lost a lot during this pandemic.

    Reply
  19. Im still waiting for mangement appoval I do believe. I haven’t received anything. It would be nice if a mircle happens. My anxiety is to the roof.

    Reply
    • Same. I haven’t received a dime yet even though I’ve been approved and it says “payment pending”

      Reply
      • Me too when I talk to a person same answer everything good on my end been approved for everything on july17 for 39 weeks. processed pending payments ever since. .. Got the last 2 of the 600 payments was getting payments of 160.. that stopped 4 weeks ago… now everything is processed pending payments…. call and still same answer but today the person said nobody is on processed payment… not true my girlfriend has got everything all money… and still get paid and we both filed same day….

        Reply
      • Me neither I’ve certified an wasn’t getting nothing the otta nowhere I received 9 weeks then I was stopped again ! I’m still owed 40 weeks of back pay! It just says processed pending payment! I called meny times an they said I’m in the clear just keep checking my miwam! But it’s been awhile now! Soo idk ! I just pray an hope me an everyone else gets there things figured out!

        Reply
      • I haven’t recieved a dime either and i have been certifying for 51 week saying processed pending payment

        Reply
  20. Got the LWA question link in my MiWAM account on Wednesday September 30th. Got the full $1,800 deposited today, October 2nd. I too was skeptical. Hang in there, it’s coming…..

    Reply
    • I received 900 on September 14th but didn’t receive the second payment of 900. I’m gonna call w miworks today and I’ll post whatever I find out.

      Reply
  21. Call 1 866 500 0017 when they start talking push 3 slowly 4 times it will say something about an interputer just hold you can usually get through that way I have been able to 3 times

    Reply
    • Just tried, does say I requested interpreter assistance, goes back to heavy call volume, then hangs up. I only qualify for 08/01 & 08/08 due to a job start. That temporary job has now ended. I have had alerts on both my original claim and my extension claim. I have resolved everything I can see on the site. Still nothing about the $600.00. Just a certification on Monday. I have called, emailed, and tried chat. No response, busy call volume, busy chat. How has anyone gotten to a person to ask a simple question?

      Reply
  22. i have the same problem i done mine and i came back to work on sept 1 but i dont know if they will give the retroactive payment since august first because i was laid off

    Reply
  23. I pray we all get our $1800 tomorrow!
    The UIA is on some bs! How do they pay a person who is working fulltime and making $18 both $extra lwa payment just cause they also work a side hussle a few days a week but make the rest of us wait?
    I’ve called over 10 times to find out wth is going on and got different bs reasons why/excuses. I feel they need to either hire more workers or get a expert to update their system cause this sucks!

    Reply
  24. Just certified for LWA in Michigan. How long does it take to get the money in my account after LWA certification? Hope someone knows… My house payment and many other Bill’s are late because of this mess!! Hellppp!!

    Reply
    • I just found a page that said MI LAW 300.00 payment funds were all used up. I Hope that does not mean those who should get it and need it will not ! Myself included. 7 months laid off due to COVID Lost both parents and an Aunt. UIA is a little over 1/2 what I got working.

      Reply
    • Hello Hoping maybe you could help me as to how I go back and apply for lwa ? I was given misinformation and thought I didn’t qualify for lwa so I didn’t certify for those weeks ( which I actually did qualify for under employment at that time, but didn’t realize till now that I did ) . I recently reopened my claim for unemployment do to work place shut down again , but I can’t figure out how to go back and certify for the weeks lwa started ( (aug 1st) any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance :)

      Reply
  25. I just filed last month and was quickly approved for pua, I certified, received payment, certified again, got payment, certified the third time, it was a week ago and still havent received payment. No Lwa either, and also they owe me around 20 weeks of backpay that they approved me for and I havent received anything. I cant get through to ask questions in any way. Is all this money eventually coming. Or is something wrong? The site looks like everything is fine in my account. Im so confused.

    Reply
  26. same here i applied 4 july and have not received one dollar….it just says processed payment pending….

    Reply
  27. My UIA MiWam account for Michigan day says total weeks available 0. This is after my first 26 weeks. I did try my 1st payment of $900 LWA. Now, the account says closed under claim status. I never received a link any link or information for the 13 weeks of EB-PEUC. My UIA account did say to recertify on October 5, but the day my account said closed. I called and talked to a UIA Rep. and they said my benefits for the 13 weeks would be added, per not having to re-apply or file a new claim within the same benefit year. I asked the team rep. after that, So, then since it closed now, you’ll reactivate the old claim with the 13 week extension, seen I’m eligible for 39 weeks and have only received 26 thus far. I was told yes, it’s on my account and the UIA will add the 13 weeks on and I don’t need to do anything and the system will update and give me the same certification date as I seen before the account was closed when it reached 0 weeks available to be credited with the new EB 13 weeks. How confusing and what a nightmare. Back in 08-09, the benefit extension were just added after the last cert without having people panic and the UIA account says closed. So, has anyone else gone through these hoops of fire waiting for their account that says closed to suddenly say week’s added with a new cert date? Also wondering, will I get the second $900 being lost in this closed/reactivated sanerio.

    Reply
    • Had similar problem july 25th they switched me from pua to uia and my account looked closed. It just would not update on my side of miwam. It took 5 weeks for them to fix and reactivate my account. But then it messed up my LWA . I still haven’t received one penny from lwa yet. So it can be worse. I make 362 a week and covid related layoff

      Reply
    • I keep checking Mine nearly daily. For a week or so My Miwam account showed closed and no 13 week extension . A day ago the 13 weeks and prompt to certify appeared. I hope the same holds true for LWA payment But I am not optimistic on that .

      Reply
  28. I was wondering if anyone has received the LWA payments. I see now that I have read a few messages that some people have. I haven’t received any payment yet and I can’t believe they are telling us not to contact unemployment if we haven’t received it. So what are we supposed to do….? Wait until it is too late and they run out of money? I have already had my issues with unemployment here and barely get any money as it is and its all because I started my claim ONE WEEK TOO EARLY!!??? Anyway, I guess there is still hope that I might get the additional LWA. I am glad I found this link. I was starting to feel like I was the only one out here. Thank you for the link about the issues they are having.

    Reply
      • Yes, I agree. I just wish there was something in my account that states that I am going to receive it. The not knowing anything at all is the worst. The recordings say that in the beginning of the month payments went out. Well this is almost the end of the month. So I think we should have gotten something by now.

        Reply
    • There is some good news. The “blurb” on the UIA policy page changed yesterday. It used to have a message fromn September 10th. This is is undated (Hmmm…..) but has news that those on regular unemployment / not covid-19 related will see link later this week to answer questions attesting to the fact that our unemployment is at least partially related to covid-19. A person in a reddit thread said they called UIA today and they were told to expect the link on Friday.

      It appears to a link that will appear independent of when we certify. Some people are skeptical or downright disbelieving but I feel good about it.

      I get what you mean about worrying that the money will run out. Because even if they say six weeks what if somehow within the state’s “pot” of money it does run out? I hope not. I wish they would have waited to give the people who already got a first round their second round before some of us get it.

      Bottomline I am hopeful. If I don’t see anything by next Tuesday ( a link I mean) I will call. I have never called. I guess I’m waiting until I have a huge problem before I call.

      Reply
  29. I’ve been waiting for them to process my claim I Put a claim on July 17th and still haven’t gotten anything.. I verfied sucessfully I have done everything they have told me and yet I still wait. So waiting this is ridiculous..

    Reply
    • Bobby my name is Amy and this is going to sound weird but go with me on this. I actually do collections for a living but I have been helping people with unemployment since this mess started, fortunately or unfortunately I have done it for myself more than once over the years and have had to fight for it so I started helping my customers and reading all of this makes me so mad I could….oh I don’t know I can’t put on here what I would like to do lol I have also called 2 tv channels through this disaster that the state calls unemployment and plan on doing it again when this is over but my popint is if you or anyone else would like some help I would help

      Reply
      • Hey Amy I’ve been waiting 12 weeks with no pay. Non Monetary issue. No help. Have wrote, called, ‘chatted’, wrote governors office etc

        Reply
      • Me too! I have verified my identity not once but twice due to receiving two different letters with different client Id numbers. When I called the rep said sign and date the 2nd one and upload it without my selfie holding two pieces of ID because they had the first letter that i uploaded the week before. It’s a good thing I read everything and noticed the client ID number was different.
        When I went into MIWAM it kept rejecting due to not including the selfie
        When I tried to re-send my selfie with ID it rejected saying they already had it
        The only thing I could do was upload my drivers license, then it finally accepted the new signed/dated id,smh
        That was 4 wks ago and I am still under ” in process” or “processing”.
        I worked through the whole pandemic and now due to everyone who took advantage last year those of us who are honest and need temporary help are going to have to fight for what is due us.
        This has been a nitemare and I can’t seem to wake up.
        If there is anyway or anything I can do to speed this up please let me know.
        I am by myself so I have absolutely not income and I empathize with everyone else who are struggling.
        Thank-you!
        Respectfully,
        Donna

        Reply
  30. Ive used up my 26 weeks. When will my 13 week peuc kick in? Is it automatic or do i need to apply again? My account said i have no more weeks remaining.

    Reply
      • Mine didn’t. I sent them a message through miwam when I had 4 weeks remaining on my regular unemployment, asking if I needed to do anything to get on the peuc. Never got a reply. So I just figured I would certify every two weeks as usual. But when I went to do that for the first time under Peuc, I found that I had to file a new claim. And because of that I technically filed a week late. I got ahold of someone to explain why (I can’t afford to miss a week) and they said OK, they would notate it. Unfortunately that has now stopped ALL my payments until they get to my case . Im drowning with no timeframe as to how long it will take for them to get to my case .

        Reply
  31. Both my gf and I originally filed our claim in March, and our 13 week extension just got auto approved a couple days ago. We haven’t received either lwa payments yet, im wondering if its because our original claim ended September 12th and since it just updated a couple days ago, maybe we will get the lwa payments in the next week or so. We haven’t had a single issue with our payments until now, so just hoping it comes soon

    Reply
    • I spoke to a representative yesterday. I too am waiting. I was assured that if you certified for those LWA weeks and you get more than 100. Most do. You are eligible. He says there is no method on delivery of payments. He said if not in my account by Friday to give them a call. I dont get what is going on either. VERY FRUSTRATING.

      Reply
      • I’m reading information on this site and a few people have said after your 13 week extension runs out which mine did you will automatically get another extension. I’ve had nothing what does it mean if it says you have 29 weeks pua and 29 weeks remaining. You can’t reach anyone so I’m hoping somebody out there knows the answer to my questions Thankyou in advance

        Reply
    • Your whole paragraph .. Is me too . i got my extintion 3 days after my regular payments rN out . i am now on peuc . i got that letter yesterday . but i had already got that notice in my correspondence in miwam . so im hopeing by friday this week . i see some type of LWA . my husband got his first one on the 18th . i started my claim in march ..he stated his in may . and he still got a payment from LWA . so i hope to see something soon.

      Reply
  32. Trying hard to reach somebody at UI is like searching for a needle in a haystack. My 13 week regular unemployment extension ended last month and it now says im allowed 29 weeks PUA with 29 weeks remaining but i never get a link to certify. Cant reach anyone to clarify things so im asking if anyone out there as any info for me

    Reply
  33. I have exhausted both my UI and Extension after the September 5th. Will i be eligible to receive LWA benefits for the weeks i did certify (Aug 1st -Sept 5th)

    My account is closed on the UIA website.

    Reply
    • Yes…if your claim was in effect in August,you are eligible. Also…..I think there is an emergency extension until this pandemic is over as long as your benefit year has not expired. But……….you have to call. Sorry. I don’t remember where I heard this info.

      Reply
      • Thanks Shirley so I reopened my claim I had before my last job which I only had for three months due to covid then I got the 13 weeks extension which finished end of August and now it says I’m entitled to 29 weeks at 160 PUA which I’ve never been able to certify or reach anyone so I have no idea what’s real except the bills keep rolling in and I can’t find work in the restaurant bar area

        Reply
        • The $160 is the minimum if there is no wage information. What’s tripping you up trying to certify? Maybe I can help?

    • i have the same problem i done mine and i came back to work on sept 1 but i dont know if they will give the retroactive payment since august first because i was laid off

      Reply
      • Yes you will receive LWA. As long as you certify for the weeks of aug 1st and September 12th. And you recieve more than 100 a week. I am in the same boat. Still waiting for my first round

        Reply
  34. Still waiting for the LWA and having household expenses like everyone else to take care of I also have a son in college so having some type of info as to when we’d receive these funds would be greatly appreciated instead of being ignored. Being able to give expected dates as to when you can pay rent, or a car payment etc etc Is allot better then telling them nothing at all.

    Reply
    • It’s been so weird that there hasn’t been any news about this from the Michigan papers. It’s hard to wait for the money but, at least for me, it’s WAY more anxiety-inducing when I feel like I don’t know if I’ll ever be paid. At least this link gives me hope. I see the system has been having problems. They are doing scheduled maintenance all day tomorrow so the system will be down. I hope it will help but maybe the maintenance is just the routine updates of the operating system or other technical routines that won’t have a bearing on this.

      I will try to call next week if necessary. I sent a message through the system but I don’t know if those get read. I try to avoid calling because they are already swamped but it sounds like I could miss out all together if some cases are falling through the cracks. I never saw a link in my account to self-certify.

      At least we know we will get 6 weeks’ worth ($1800) when we do get paid. I’ve read earlier that we would get only 5. One less thing to worry about.

      Reply
  35. I am still waiting on first round. Thier was a glitch on my miwam. Doesnt look like I’m getting it till next week at least. Michigan unemployment sucks this is twice they screwed up my account

    Reply
    • Actually I’m grateful to get the money. It’s unfortunate when glitches happen but I remain thankful.

      P.S. In my comment just before this one: The URL can be copied ending at “remain”. It’s a good source of new info.

      Reply
      • Oh no, my original comment that had the URL in it hasn’t been approved. It was chock full of new and good info. I hope they approve it. It didn’t have an “active” link in it but a typed one that could be copied and pasted. It was a source of new information about why some of us may be having issues getting the extra $300/wk / total $1800. I wish I had copied it because I spent some time composing it and I think it’s helpful.

        Reply
        • Try this link but add https colon slash And www to front
          “. .savingtoinvest.com/michigan-mi-unemployment-benefits-news-including-updates-on-extended-benefit-pua-peuc-programs/ “
          I’m hoping this will make it through the filter.

        • Trying for the fifth time. This is hard. I’m only trying to help and it won’t approve because I have a URL. Earlier tonight I posted the wrong one because I’ve labored over this so much. Arrrghhh. Just paste this fragment into google and you should be able to find the link:


          bridgemi.com/business-watch/michigans-unemployed-get-900-more-system-glitches-remain

    • Actually I’m grateful to get the money. It’s unfortunate when glitches happen but I remain thankful.

      P.S. In my comment just before this one: The URL can be copied ending at “remain”. It’s a good source of new info.

      Reply
  36. I wish Michigan had more information for us. I have been very happy with how smoothly my claim has worked for me since April bu they’ve been opaque with information on LWA payments. The Ohio page of this site has so much useful info including commenters and Andy’s chart entry specifying that PUA filers will receive theirs before “traditional” filers.
    I was calm until Wednesday when my payout was the regular amount. None of my local papers have any stories about it so I assumed (incorrectly I hope) that no one was having any issues getting the LWA pay. Michigan UIA website not enlightening. In two days their expected payout end date will have passed.

    Reply
    • Same here, I haven’t received the $300 yet either my boyfriend has but he gets the pua unemployment I got my regular payment Wednesday, doesn’t say anything when you go on the website either, very frustrating

      Reply
  37. What us going on with LWA in Michigan? They ard giving zero information about our money. I dont know anyone who has received anything from LWA. Therd have been no updates in MIWAM . The governor needs to put a fire under unemployment butts. This is ridiculous..

    Reply
    • Michigan need to do better on communication And we are the only STATE .. That said DONT contact customer service. Who says that!!? But if They OVER PAY U … THEY JUMP ON TOP STUFF THEN

      Reply
    • i received $900 Tuesday. I’m just wondering if they will pay the second round in another $900 lump payment or separate $300 payments. The LWA is payed separately from your regular WBA deposit.

      Reply
    • I received the LWA in two batches of $900, one on 9/11 and the second on Friday 9/18. Hang in there they are getting to it.

      Reply
      • I havent recieved no payments either. My husband got his first payment on 18th . nothing for me . i got my claim done 2 months before him back in march . michigan is worst at anything involveing paying money . while they sitting by their pools eating Salmon and crap . get us our money! Your bills may be paid but not the rest of us.

        Reply
        • I still haven’t gotten mine either, I’m so confused. ?????? And there’s no one even available to speak with. It’s frustrating.

  38. I just certified on Sunday Sept. 13 and miwam says I get my regular pay for the 2 weeks I certified for. And one of those weeks what the week ending Sept. 5th. When will we be getting ours. The table says Sept. 10th. Anyone in michigan start getting their 300 yet

    Reply
      • Did you receive the extra $900 with the benefit payments, or separately? My problem is I started a new job on the September 18th and my extra 13 weeks just started. I did have the link to self verify that I was employed due to COVID. But I’m holding off on doing my normal certification, because when I say I’m employed, I’m afraid I won’t get the LWA that I should.

        Reply
  39. I haven’t seen the additional $300 yet and have unemployment right now. Was wondering when I will getting it????

    Reply
    • That’s a good question. I just read that Ohio approved 20 extra weeks after the 13 week extension. They did that months ago. I’m worried Michigan won’t be able to afford it but I think Ohio had to borrow from the Federal government to do it.

      I haven’t received the LWA yet. Some states are paying it to those on PUA (non-traditional unemployment for gig worker, self-employed, etc.) first because of the way the computer systems are set up. Then the regular unemployment receivers will get it next. I don’t have a clue if that’s the case in Michigan. I have been so satisfied with Michigan UIA so far. I still am but I wish we could get more info. I am pretty worried about the requirement that our original reason for layoff was DIRECTLY related to covid-19. Mine wasn’t but I lost a job opportunity I was supposed to get right after the layoff due to covid-19. I’m nervous.

      Reply
      • must be nice. My claim has glitches two separate times now. And because of it I am still waiting on my lwa. I have zero .one and now it says I gotta wait till next week. This is such b.s.

        Reply
    • Yes it will automatically do it for you, it will say extension on it. Mine took a few days and I was panicking but I went in and it was there. I have not received my lwa yet though

      Reply

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