If you’ve been laid off for the winter in Michigan, or you’re expecting it, a few things about unemployment work differently this year. Here’s what changed and what to do, in plain terms.
Already collecting? Certify before 4:30 p.m. ET Monday, Nov. 2
Michigan is switching to a new unemployment system. The current one, MiWAM, goes offline at 4:30 p.m. ET on Monday, Nov. 2. The new one, MiUI, is scheduled to open at 8 a.m. Monday, Nov. 9.
- Certify before the shutdown, even if Nov. 2 isn’t your usual day.
- The UIA phone line is closed Nov. 2–9 too.
- Missed a certification? Submit it once MiUI opens.
- Starting Nov. 9, you’ll certify every week instead of every two weeks.
3 work searches, every week
Since July 19, unless you have an approved work search waiver, you have to complete and report at least 3 different work search activities each week. Fall short and that week isn’t paid. Keep doing them during the shutdown week too.
✓ These count:
- applying for a job or interviewing
- going to a job fair
- a job search workshop or job-related skills course
- registering with an employment agency or recruiter
✕ These don’t:
- only browsing job listings
- only asking whether someone is hiring
- reapplying to the same job with the same employer within 4 weeks
Keep proof of each one, like confirmation emails or screenshots. Applying for jobs counts, so if you’re looking anyway, browse green industry jobs on GreenIndustryCareers.com.
Filing for the first time
- File online at Michigan.gov/UIA. Your employer’s UIA 1711 notice has the employer details you’ll need.
- Unless UIA waived it, create a job seeker profile at MiTalent.org. Michigan Works! has to verify it at least one business day before your first certification.
Coming back soon?
Back within 45 days? Your employer may have requested a work search waiver, and if it’s approved, your Monetary Determination letter will say so. Back within 15 days? You can ask for one when you file. No approved waiver means the weekly rule applies.
Picking up some work? Report it
Doing some snow work or other hours during your layoff? Report your gross earnings (before deductions) for the week you did the work, even if you haven’t been paid yet.
How much, and for how long
Benefits last up to 26 weeks. The weekly maximum is $530 for 2026 claims and $614 for claims filed Jan. 1, 2027 or later. Your amount depends on your past wages.
Keep this handy
We put the key points on one printable page. Save it to your phone or stick it on the fridge.
Where to get help
Michigan UIA: Michigan.gov/UIA · How MiUI works: MiUI overview · Help finding work: your local Michigan Works! office (MichiganWorks.org)
🗓️ Current as of Oct. 29, 2026, based on guidance from Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance Agency. Rules and dates can change, so always go by what UIA tells you.
