How to apply for unemployment if you get laid off due to coronavirus

The novel coronavirus pandemic is wreaking havoc on the economy, and many people could find themselves laid off or unemployed as a result.

Here is how to file for unemployment if you get laid off as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

You can apply for unemployment assistance online. First, file a claim. Visit www.michigan.gov/UIA. You will need some basics, like your Social Security number, driver's license number, names and addresses of employers over the last 18 months, quarterly earnings, last day of employment at each place, employer's federal ID number and alien registration number if you aren't a U.S. citizen. 

Normally, you must register for work at Michigan Works!

But that rule was suspended Monday under sweeping changes made by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to make it easier for Michiganders affected by the novel coronavirus to receive benefits.

Among the other changes:

• Benefits will be expanded to those workers who are sick, quarantined, immunocompromised and have an unanticipated family care responsibility, and first responders who become ill or must self-quarantine. Benefits also eventually may be extended to self-employed and contract workers.
• Benefits go from 20 to 26 weeks,
• The application period has been extended from 14 days to 28.

Unemployment benefits pay up to $362 a week. 

Contact Maryann Struman 313-222-6457 or @mastruman on Twitter.