URGENT UPDATE: Nearly 48,000 Michiganders will receive retroactive unemployment payments totaling $34 million under a newly enacted law. The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) has confirmed that checks will be issued following adjustments to weekly benefits that were implemented on April 2.
The changes come after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a bill in December, marking the first increase in unemployment benefits since 2011. The law, which took effect on January 1, raised weekly benefits from $362 to $446, benefitting thousands of residents who have struggled during the pandemic.
UIA Director Jason Palmer stated, “This money will help thousands of Michiganders across the state pay their bills and feed their families.” The agency has received numerous calls from grateful residents eager for the additional financial support while they continue their job search.
The retroactive payments cover claims made between January 1 and April 1, during which the state received over 78,000 claims. Of these claims, approximately 47,000 have been identified as eligible for the increased benefits. Claimants can verify their eligibility and review the details of their increased payments by accessing the Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM), where they will also receive a letter explaining the adjustments.
Looking ahead, the law stipulates that unemployment benefits will continue to rise over the next two years. The maximum weekly benefit is set to increase to $530 starting on January 1, 2026, and will further rise to $614 on January 1, 2027. Future amounts will be determined by the state treasurer based on federal data.
Additional provisions in the legislation include extending the duration of unemployment benefits to 26 weeks and adjusting work reporting rules. Beginning in July 2026, those who leave work due to being victims of domestic violence will also be eligible for benefits.
For further information on the retroactive payments and to check eligibility, residents are encouraged to visit the state’s official website.
This significant financial relief comes at a critical time for many Michiganders, highlighting the ongoing efforts to support unemployed individuals as they navigate the challenges of finding work in a recovering economy.