Servers, Call Centers Added To Handle Michigan Unemployment Calls

MICHIGAN (CBS DETROIT) - After Michigan's unemployment online system crashed Monday, state officials say they've added more computer servers and staff, according to The Detroit News.

The record-setting number of unemployment claims caused the online system to be down for about six hours.

Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity Director Jeff Donofrio stated in a press conference, one million have applied for aid — which is nearly a quarter of the state's workforce — and Michigan has paid $350 million so far in benefits to 600,000 people. He added going forward the number would continue to grow.

To help Michiganders receive unemployment benefits as a result of COVID-19, the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency has developed a schedule for workers to file for benefits based on the first letter of their last name. Customers are encouraged to use off-peak times 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.

Donofrio stated in the press conference those with last names beginning with A-L should file claims online on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Last names beginning with M-Z should file online Sundays Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The UIA site is experiencing very heavy volumes this morning. We know newly eligible workers are eager to get benefits....

Posted by Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity on Monday, April 13, 2020

If your last name begins with M-Z, today (Tuesday) is one of your filing days. Visit Michigan.gov/UIA to file your claim. #MichiganCOVID19 #MichiganUnemployment #Unemploymentinsurance #UnemploymentBenefits

Posted by Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity on Tuesday, April 14, 2020

If Michiganders want to file their claim by phone, those with last names beginning with A-L should call on Mondays and Wednesdays and those with last names beginning with M-Z should call Tuesdays and Thursdays. The call center's schedule is 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday - Friday and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at 866-500-0017.

To help Michiganders receive unemployment benefits as a result of COVID-19, the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency...

Posted by Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity on Monday, April 13, 2020

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