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If you are a Michigan casino worker who is currently unemployed because your employer has temporarily closed down as a result of the coronavirus, you need not worry about being left without support. You might be eligible to receive unemployment insurance benefits from the state.
Gaming facilities in the Wolverine State contribute to this insurance on your behalf, but to benefit from the program, you need to meet the eligibility criteria and submit an application.
Info on unemployment insurance for Michigan casino workers
Michigan has been granted increased flexibility on unemployment programs through new federal guidelines. These revised guidelines may enable you to qualify, even if you wouldn’t have been eligible under regular circumstances.
For instance, in the event of a temporary layoff where the casino intends to rehire you after the shutdown, you may still meet the requirements for qualification. Similarly, if your working hours have been reduced but you are still employed to some extent, you may also be eligible.
In your state, the administration of unemployment insurance is handled by the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA), not the federal government. Therefore, if you wish to file a claim, it is necessary to do so directly with the UIA.
While the UIA has temporarily closed its offices to the public, individuals can still receive assistance by calling 1-866-500-0017. However, the Michigan UIA highly recommends residents to file their claims online.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan has recently taken action by signing an executive order concerning unemployment insurance. This order brings about two noteworthy modifications to the existing regulations.
Whitmer has effectively increased the benefits period from 20 weeks to 26 weeks, equivalent to half a year. Additionally, she has extended the eligibility period for filing a claim from 14 days to 28 days.
Additionally, Whitmer suspended the obligations for reporting work and conducting work searches, recognizing the unfavorable job market conditions currently affecting numerous individuals.
Filing a claim promptly is crucial as it directly impacts the time you may receive benefits. Nevertheless, it is equally important to determine your eligibility beforehand.
How do I know whether I qualify for benefits?
If you are solely engaged in contract work for Michigan casinos, it is unlikely that you will meet the requirements under the existing regulations. However, if you have previously submitted a W-9 form during your employment with the casino, you may be deemed eligible.
Although you may work for a Michigan casino, you must be a resident of Michigan in order to be eligible. If you legally reside in another state, you will need to file a claim with your state of residence.
Rest assured that all casinos operating within Michigan have fulfilled their obligation of paying into the state’s unemployment insurance system, so there is no need to be concerned about this requirement from your employer.
Under normal circumstances, the state requires a specific duration of employment with a Michigan company. However, even if you had a brief period of employment at a casino before its closure, you may still meet the eligibility criteria.
If you are working less than usual, you may still be eligible for partial benefits. It is advisable to promptly file a claim so that the UIA can assess your individual situation.
Once you understand the application’s requirements, completing the process is fairly simple. You just need a few pieces of information and either a computer or a smartphone to begin.
What do I need to file a claim in Michigan?
To apply for benefits, you must provide the UIA with some relevant information. While completing the online application, you have the option to save your progress and resume later in case you need to gather additional details.
To complete the application, you will need the following information:
- Your Social Security number.
- Please provide the names, addresses, and gross wages (pre-tax) of all employers you have been employed by in the last 18 months.
- Michigan ID refers to a form of identification issued by the state, specifically a driver’s license.
- The final day of employment with each of your previous employers within the last 18 months.
- If you have received a W-2 form from your most recent employer, you can find their Federal Employer ID Number (FEIN) and Michigan Employer Account Number (EAN) listed on the form.
- If you do not hold US citizenship, you will be required to present your alien registration card.
Michigan casino workers can expect a return to normalcy in their work soon, and until then, state programs are available to provide assistance.
