In Michigan, filing for unemployment benefits is a two-step process. First, you need to file a claim with the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA). Then you must register for work with a Michigan Works! agency. To help clear up confusion, here are answers to the most common questions about the register for work process.
Are you the unemployment insurance agency?
No. If you have questions about your unemployment insurance, you will need to contact the unemployment insurance agency. However, service center staff can answer many of your questions about the unemployment filing process. Job seekers work through unemployment insurance claims frequently on our service center computers or on the special UIA phone line.
How do I register for work?
Your first step is to open a claim with the Unemployment Insurance Agency. Registering for work is the second step in the unemployment insurance filing process. As part of this step, you will complete a job seeker profile and upload a resume on Pure Michigan Talent Connect. Tip: Have your ID and a current resume handy to help the process move more quickly.
After your profile is complete, service center staff will verify that you’ve registered for work. You will receive an email with that verification. This completes your unemployment insurance claim filing.
Do I have to come into a service center?
Service center staff will make sure you’re correctly registered on Pure Michigan Talent Connect (and MiLogin) and will verify that your profile is complete. If you are unable to come into a service center, you may register to work via a virtual meeting with a West Michigan Works! staff member (use this calendar to make an appointment). Once complete, you will receive an email that verifies that you have registered for work.
Can I use a service center to file for unemployment?
Absolutely! Computers are available for online registration, as well as Pure Michigan Talent Connect profile creation.
Do you need to call UIA? There is a special phone line in each service center that moves callers to the front of the call line, which means short wait times!
Find a service center closest to you here.