Michigan’s self-employed workers, gig workers, 1099-independent contractors and low-wage workers affected by COVID-19 can apply for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) beginning Monday, April 13 at 8AM. Under the federal CARES Act, workers on state unemployment have already begun receiving the set $600 federal weekly payment in addition to their state benefit amount. Michigan is one of the first states to begin sending the $600 payment.  

Customers are encouraged to use off-peak times 8 p.m. – 8 a.m. Earlier today, the UIA announced new resources to help workers resolve online technical issues with their account. 

• Last names beginning with letters A-L: file claims on Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays. 
• Last names beginning with letters M-Z: file claims on Sundays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays. 
• Saturdays will be available for anyone to accommodate those who could not file during their allotted window.