The filing process for unemployment insurance can be overwhelming. The process of contacting the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) first before visiting Michigan Works leaves some individuals confused and unsure. 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, West Michigan Works! 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 (either in person, online or on the phone). Registering for work is the second step in the unemployment insurance filing process. This includes visiting a Michigan Works service center to complete a job seeker profile/resume on Pure Michigan Talent Connect. After your profile is complete, service center staff will verify that you’ve registered for work and give you a stamped form. This completes your unemployment insurance claim filing.
Do I have to come into a service center?
We recomend that you visit a service center so that staff can make sure you’re correctly registered on Pure Michigan Talent Connect (and MiLogin) and verify that your profile is complete. Bring an ID and current resume to help the process move more quickly. You will receive a stamped form with registration verification.
If you are unable to come into a service center, you may register to work via a virtual meeting.
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.
