In an effort to help “streamline” the processing of claims, the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency will receive a new computer system within the next few years.

A Southfield man has been sentenced for using identity theft to obtain more than $400,000 in unemployment insurance benefits.

More than 55,000 Michiganders will not have to pay back a total of $431 million in pandemic unemployment benefits that was improperly awarded to them, the state announced.

A Southfield woman has been charged for using other people’s identities to make more than 35 fraudulent unemployment claims, police said.

A Detroit man pleaded guilty to stealing unemployment benefits from nine different states, and he tried and failed to do so in eight others, federal officials said.

“If we thought that people were going to be rushing to jobs because they saw their benefits about to expire, today’s jobs release numbers were not in accord with that,” Hershbein said.

Federal officials have charged 14 people from Wayne and Macomb counties in connection with a fraud scheme to steal COVID unemployment benefits.

Michigan is reopening 12 unemployment offices for in-person appointments.

People currently receiving unemployment benefits are going to start experiencing new changes.

Under the U.S.’ American Rescue Plan, unemployment benefits received in 2020 are not taxable -- to a certain extent.

A scam alert reveals how thieves are targeting Michiganders who are collecting unemployment benefits.

Despite fewer restrictions than previously, some businesses are finding it difficult to get back up and running. Although there are “Help Wanted” signs seen outside of businesses, not enough people are filling the positions.

The U.S. government’s American Rescue Plan has changed how unemployment benefits are taxed amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Extended unemployment benefits for Michigan residents will no longer be available after this week because the state’s unemployment rate dropped below the required threshold.

Michigan officials said unemployment numbers in the state declined in February for the second consecutive month. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate declined by half a percentage point during February, to 5.2%, according to the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget. Despite the jobless rate reduction, the state employment level edged down slightly over the month (-14,000), as did the number of unemployed (-28,000), state officials revealed. The unemployment rate in the U.S. decreased in February by one-tenth of a percentage point, to 6.2%, data shows. Since the height of pandemic-related layoffs in April 2020, Michigan unemployment fell by 841,000, or by 77.6%.

Some Michigan residents who were previously eligible will no longer receive additional weeks of unemployment benefits, the state revealed. Michigan is no longer in a high unemployment period, so claimants receiving extended benefits and pandemic unemployment assistance will not longer receive them for extra weeks, according to state officials. Under federal law, a state in a high unemployment period receives seven additional weeks of PUA and EB benefits. Since Michigan is no longer in a high unemployment period, those seven extra weeks will not be paid, according to officials. AdFor residents receiving extra benefits who have already been paid for the maximum number of weeks, their claim is considered exhausted, and there are no more weeks of extra benefits available, state officials said.

DETROIT – It has been riddled with problems since the start of the pandemic, but on Monday the Michigan Insurance Agency rolled out some badly needed changes. In order to help the thousands of unemployed people across the state it rolled out an updated computer system. It gives you an idea of just how dysfunctional the unemployment system is when the newly updated system crashed Monday morning. This new update covers pandemic unemployment assistance known as PUA and pandemic emergency unemployment compensation or PEUC. Answer: This is an issue with the state’s MiLogin system and is affecting more than the unemployment system.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan residents who had PUA and PEUC claims that ended in December can now reopen, certify or apply for benefits, state unemployment officials said. Officials with the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency said they have completed system updates for the recently extended federal unemployment insurance programs. All remaining Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation claimants whose claims ended when CARES Act programs were interrupted in December can now either reopen, certify or apply for benefits available under the Continued Assistance Act, according to the state. A new provision under the CAA requires PUA claimants to submit proof of employment or self-employment to maintain eligibility. Workers on regular state UI benefits will no longer receive the PEUC extension automatically.

Unemployment claims in Michigan have been at an all-time high during the pandemic. DETROIT – Someone is hacking into the Michigan unemployment office and filing claims for people who aren’t unemployed, Local 4′s Rod Meloni has learned. The victims didn’t know about these fraudulent claims until they saw unemployment income that they didn’t receive included on their tax forms, officials said. Those residents are being pushed up into a higher tax bracket as a result, state officials said. Michigan officials have seen an increase in fraudulent activities surrounding unemployment as thousands of residents try to get benefits because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Federal officials said the two filed at least 66 fraudulent Michigan unemployment insurance benefits claims, causing a loss of more than $150,000. “As I have said before, those who steal unemployment benefits steal from all of us. Court records show they had the fraudulent benefits deposited into a variety of bank accounts, including some connected to prepaid debit cards. Officials said Armstrong has filed fraudulent applications for unemployment insurance benefits on behalf of people in Michigan, California and Pennsylvania. “The UIA remains committed to working closely with all of our federal and state partners on the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Fraud Task Force to bring unemployment fraud cases to justice.”

RELATED: Michigan unemployment: Residents can start to claim remaining PEUC, PUA paymentsThere’s a new way people who are battling the Unemployment Insurance Agency can get help to solve these issues. The University of Michigan’s Workers’ Rights Clinic has law students assisting residents in solving what can be frustrating issues. Before the coronavirus pandemic, the school said the Workers’ Rights Clinic would average about 15 phone calls each week. The Workers’ Rights Clinic -- formerly the Unemployment Insurance Clinic -- offers advice, provides representation at more. To apply for legal assistance through the Workers’ Rights Clinic, visit the University of Michigan Law School’s official website here.

Michigan residents who have remaining pandemic unemployment payments can start to claim them this week, including the additional $300 COVID-19 benefit, state officials announced. Residents who claimed Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation or Pandemic Unemployment Assistance benefits and had weeks remaining on their claim as of Dec. 26, 2020, can start to certify their claims, according to the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency. RELATED: Whitmer confirms start of $300 unemployment payments to Michiganders affected by COVID-19The certification process can be done through MiWAM accounts, officials said. Residents who didn’t exhaust their original 13 weeks of PEUC can claim the balance of remaining weeks, starting with the week ending Jan. 2, officials said. Claimants who didn’t exhaust their original 39 weeks of PUA payments can claim the balance of remaining weeks, beginning with the week ending Jan. 2, the state revealed.

The battle to collect unemployment benefits continues for many Michigan residents, but state officials said the $300 COVID-19 bonus is coming soon. State officials said that money is slowing making its way to Michigan. READ: Whitmer signs $106M relief bill, extends COVID-19 unemployment benefits through MarchThe Pandemic Unemployment Compensation payments run from Dec. 27, 2020, through March 13, 2021. They offer an additional $300 in benefits per week to Michigan claimants who were negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Claimants don’t have to take action to receive the additional payments.

That includes a Metro Detroit man who investigators said withdrew nearly $150,000 before he was arrested. The scheme spread across two states and involved fake social security numbers, addresses and driver’s license numbers. The investigator reported large cash withdrawals at bank machines across Oakland County. Federal investigators said Baker received unemployment benefits from Pennsylvania in various victims’ names on the prepaid debit cards and used those cards to make the cash withdrawals. Surveillance images from the banks where cash withdrawals were made were used to identify Baker.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan has started making the $300 weekly COVID-19 unemployment payments to eligible residents who were affected by the pandemic. The Pandemic Unemployment Compensation payments run from Dec. 27, 2020, through March 13, 2021. They offer an additional $300 in benefits per week to Michigan claimants who were negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. PEUC provides 11 additional weeks of benefits for those who have exhausted regular state unemployment benefits. PUA provides unemployment benefits to those not typically eligible for unemployment including self-employed and gig workers.

Gretchen Whitmer held a briefing Tuesday (Dec. 29) to discuss the state’s handling of COVID-19, a $106 million relief bill, unemployment benefits and more. Gretchen Whitmer signs a $106 million COVID-19 relief bill on Dec. 29, 2020. “I proposed this stimulus plan to the legislature in November because I know how much our families, frontline workers, and small businesses need relief,” Whitmer said. Whitmer vetoes other itemsWhen she signed the relief bill, Whitmer line item vetoed any items not subject to negotiated agreement. Requests for legislationWhitmer makes public requests of the Michigan Legislature during nearly every COVID-19 briefing, and Tuesday was no different.

Michigan’s most recent COVID-19 order has issued, extended and then revised tighter restrictions on the state over the past six weeks. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says the order has greatly improved the COVID-19 situation in Michigan, but does that timeline actually line up?

LANSING, Mich. – The three major metrics Michigan uses to gauge the spread of COVID-19 continue to improve, according to an update from the state’s top health official. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, updated the state’s case, hospitalization and positivity rates during Gov. These regions also have the highest case rates, though both are declining in that regard. As of Tuesday, 13.8% of inpatient hospital beds across the state are being used for COVID-19 patients, Khaldun said. While the numbers improve, nearly 71,000 people have been vaccinated in Michigan, Khaldun said.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s COVID-19 numbers have continued to improve in recent weeks, and Gov. READ: Timeline of how COVID trends have actually changed since Michigan issued, extended, revised order“Since my last press briefing, our numbers have continued to improve,” Whitmer said Tuesday. According to the governor, Michigan’s focus on science-based action, along with cooperation from residents, is responsible for the improving numbers. “Now, because of the actions that we’ve taken, and because so many Michiganders have done their part, our numbers are better than all of our Midwestern neighbors,” Whitmer said. “These numbers are encouraging.”While no announcement was made about further reopening parts of the state, Whitmer said officials are continuing to monitor COVID-19 trends closely to see if they’re affected by holiday travel.

Gretchen Whitmer has signed a $106 million relief bill and also extended COVID-19 unemployment benefits through March 2021. Gretchen Whitmer signs a bill extending COVID-19 unemployment benefits on Dec. 29, 2020. Forty states, including all of our neighbors, automatically provide at least 26 weeks of unemployment relief. Whitmer vetoes other itemsWhen she signed the relief bill, Whitmer line item vetoed any items not subject to negotiated agreement. Whitmer wants the Legislature to pass a permanent extension of unemployment benefits and an increase in weekly benefits.

The additional $300 weekly unemployment payments for residents who qualify for COVID-19 relief will be delayed in Michigan, officials said. Congress passed a COVID-19 relief package that extends the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation federal unemployment programs. “This federal extension will bring much needed relief to nearly 700,000 Michigan workers who are currently receiving benefits under the PUA and PEUC programs,” said Liza Estlund Olson, acting director of the Unemployment Insurance Agency. “We will have to make updates to our systems to extend benefits and renew the FPUC $300 supplemental payments,” the release says. Year-end tax statements for anyone who received unemployment benefits in 2020 will be available online in mid-January.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer estimates that the unemployment lapse would affect nearly 700,000 Michigan residents who are dependent upon unemployment benefits amid the pandemic. “We have hundreds of thousands of people in my state who are risk of losing their benefits,” Whitmer said on CNN Sunday morning. Get some relief to people,” Whitmer added, addressing Trump’s initial refusal to sign the $900 billion COVID relief bill that has been passed by Congress. Good news on Covid Relief Bill. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 27, 2020“Good news on Covid Relief Bill,” Trump tweeted.

DETROIT – Last month, when the director of the Michigan Unemployment Office resigned, promises were made that critical fixes would be made and help would arrive for the thousands struggling to get benefits. On Monday, those problems still remain. Many people have been going back and forth with unemployment officials for months with no end in sight. Many people are desperate for help. Watch the video above for the full report.

Gretchen Whitmer wants the state Legislature to pass a permanent extension of unemployment benefits as residents continue to deal with the consequences of the coronavirus pandemic. “I also urged the Legislature to pass a permanent extension of unemployment benefits,” Whitmer said. “Just yesterday, they invited the Republican colleagues to join forces with them to protect unemployed Michiganders,” Whitmer said. Michigan looks to overhaul unemployment officeThe state of Michigan is looking to overhaul its unemployment office after the director’s sudden resignation. Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, the Michigan unemployment office has worked through significant issues.

Michigan officials are warning residents of an email scam that is attempting to retrieve personal information from individuals collecting unemployment benefits. According to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, an email is being sent to claimants seeking personal information. Michigan residents are being warned of an email scam targeting individuals who collect unemployment benefits. (Michigan Department of Attorney General)Officials say the UIA would never ask a claimant to reply to an email with personal information. “Bad actors are increasingly sophisticated in their efforts to deceive people into giving away personal information,” Nessel said.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan workers who returned to work after being on unemployment and are now temporarily unemployed again should reopen their claims online, officials said. “Michiganders who were on unemployment, went back to work, and are now temporarily unemployed again due to COVID-19 can reopen their claim online,” the UIA said in a release. Click here for more information on filing or reopening an unemployment claim, including FAQs, tutorial videos and other resources. UIA encouraged Michigan employers to file employer filed Claims online on behalf of their full-time workers who are temporarily or permanently laid off. The program allows job providers to retain their skilled workforce and avoid layoffs by reducing employee hours while employees collect partial unemployment benefits to make up for the lost wages.

The state of Michigan is looking to overhaul its unemployment office after the director’s sudden resignation. Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, the Michigan unemployment office has worked through significant issues. The UIA has been flooded with calls, as more than 2 million Michigan residents have applied for benefits since the start of the pandemic. The system couldn’t keep up with demand, and many people were frustrated. UIA Director Steve Gray tried to answer questions from lawmakers, but now he is out.

Michigan looks to overhaul unemployment office after resignation of directorIf you need help with the Public File, call (313) 222-0566.

Gretchen Whitmer has signed bills that extend unemployment benefits for residents who have lost work due to COVID-19 until the end of the year. Senate Bills 886 and 991 codify part of Whitmer’s orders that expanded unemployment benefits to Michiganders. “When we get back to session I look forward to taking up our bills to expand unemployment benefits and create stronger pathways to get Michigan families the resources they need during a pandemic,” said Rep. Darrin Camilleri (D-Brownstown). Since March 15, the state has paid more than $25 billion in benefits to 2.2 million workers. Michigan was one of the first states to begin issuing the additional $600 pandemic benefit from the U.S. government.

LANSING, Mich. – A major compliant for thousands of Michiganders working to collect unemployment benefits has been trying to reach someone on the phone to answer questions. With Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency offices closed, residents have no choice but to rely on the website or phone -- but some changes are being made to make it easier. Millions of Michiganders have filed for unemployment and many have collected, while others have had issues from fraud to basic problems like reaching a person. The website had many issues early on -- it simply couldn’t keep up with the enormous demand and the phone system kept crashing. However, UIA branch offices remain closed with no open date scheduled.

LANSING, Mich. – Hundreds of thousands of Michigan residents could lose their unemployment benefits if lawmakers don’t act in the next few days, according to Gov. On Tuesday, she called on the Republican-leg legislature to return to the Capitol and negotiate new orders. The two side haven’t been able to reach agreements since Whitmer extended the state of emergency without legislative approval in April. “These are the men and women who’ve lost a job and were counting on expanded benefits to put food on the table for their kids,” Whitmer said. On Sept. 8, Whitmer signed a bill to allow Michigan residents who qualify for unemployment to earn an extra $300 per week.

LANSING, Mich. – Billions of dollars from the federal government have helped keep Michigan afloat amid financial hardships caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. With the federal government’s help, two of the major traditional budget concerns in Michigan -- K-12 schools and local revenue sharing -- will not take any cuts. House Appropriations Chairman Shane Hernandez tells Local 4 News that the federal government bought Michigan some time. “They bought us time to understand COVID, understand how we deal with it and open our businesses and schools," Hernandez said. Hernandez believes that Michigan businesses cannot afford to operate under such heavy restrictions much longer.

Gretchen Whitmer has signed a bill to allow Michigan residents who qualify for unemployment to earn an extra $300 per week as the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continues. The bill appropriates $2.8 billion in supplemental funding from revenues awarded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The $300 payments will continue until the relief funding has been exhausted. The bill also includes $8 million toward the Brandon Road Lock and Dam in Illinois, a barrier to prevent invasive carp from entering Lake Michigan. It also provides match funding for disaster flood cleanup in Midland and Gladwin counties, as well as funding to cover costs for flood response and mitigation efforts in Detroit.

Michigan unemployment worker charged with stealing money from agency amid record demandPublished: August 26, 2020, 5:44 pmA Michigan unemployment worker has been charged with stealing money from the state’s Unemployment Insurance Agency at a time when thousands of residents are still having trouble getting benefits.

A Michigan unemployment worker has been charged with stealing money from the states Unemployment Insurance Agency at a time when thousands of residents are still having trouble getting benefits. More than 1.5 million Michigan residents have filed for unemployment benefits during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but the need is so great that many people have had trouble collecting their payments. READ: FEMA approves Michigan for additional $300 in weekly unemployment paymentsNow, officials are investigating a disturbing new twist: employees on the inside stealing from the UIA. Anyone who steals unemployment funds steals form the people of Michigan.Rose and another employee, Serenity Poynter 36, of Detroit, are accused of filing almost 100 fraudulent unemployment claims. Investigators said they used Poynters name to file the claims and used different social security numbers.

WEST BLOOMFIELD, Mich. The federal governments $600 per week coronavirus (COVID-19) unemployment bonus is set to expire by the end of the month, but will it be extended before then? Michigans economy is in a strange place, as businesses that have reopened are having a hard time finding workers who are making more money through unemployment. PREVIOUS: Will extra COVID-19 unemployment benefits be extended or replaced by back-to-work bonus? Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D) got emotional Thursday while talking about the number of unemployed people across Michigan and the country. Part of the program extended benefits to many who otherwise wouldnt qualify, especially small business owners.

DETROIT Michigan unemployment official have revealed a staggering number of residents are still waiting for their benefits. Numbers from the Unemployment Insurance Agency reveal just how hard Michigan residents were hit by the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown. Tens of thousands of people still need help getting their checks, which has many asking why UIA offices are still closed. UIA offices have been shut down for months, and even as other government offices, such as Secretary of State branches, reopen across Michigan, unemployment locations remain closed. Since March 15, UIA has paid out a total of $15 billion, and more than 2.4 million Michigan residents have filed for benefits.

LANSING, Mich. – The state of Michigan overpaid $8.2 million in duplicate unemployment payments to about 3,000 residents and is going to attempt to collect the money. The Unemployment Insurance Agency issued duplicate payments to “a small percentage of claimants" as it worked to expedite payments to the millions of workers that were laid off during the coronavirus pandemic. The UIA will reach out directly to those who received duplicate payments about repayment.They can voluntarily repay the full amount, can pay it down periodically or schedule future payments until paid in full. During the coronavirus pandemic, Michigan has experienced staggering level of unemployment. More than 2 million residents have applied for state and federal benefits since March 15.

DETROIT – Scammers are targeting thousands of Michigan residents trying to get their unemployment benefits, making an already frustrating process even harder. Officials said scammers are somehow getting their hands on a list of people who have filed for benefits. They’re using that list to target residents who have already been hit hard by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Filing for unemployment has been a well-documented struggle for thousands of Michiganders. Help Me Hank has learned scammers are targeting those who have accounts locked and asking them to verify information over the phone.

DETROIT – Many businesses in Metro Detroit and around the state of Michigan are having a hard time finding workers since the coronavirus (COVID-19) unemployment bonuses don’t expire until the end of the month. Help wanted signs have been popping up all around town as businesses battle a lack of workers. “The economy can’t restart fully until employees are willing to return to work,” Block said. The shortage of workers should end after July, unless Congress decides to approve another stimulus. The state unemployment rate is at around 20% despite the many job availabilities.

DETROIT – A new scam is targeting thousands of Michigan residents who are still struggling to get answers about their unemployment benefits. Scammers are on social media offering people help with their unemployment problems in exchange for cash. Scams have made the process even more difficult, and now, there’s a warning from Attorney General Dana Nessel about scammers on social media. Those scammers are offering help to Michiganders, but unfortunately, they only want to steal their money. “Do not, under any circumstances, pay a fee or offer up your personal information to someone on social media.”

LANSING, Mich. – Officials are promising everyone who filed for unemployment prior to May 1, whose benefits are held up, will be resolved by the 4th of July. READ: Why are Michigan unemployment offices still closed? The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) was asked about the situation at the state capitol on Wednesday. Officials say unpaid claims filed before May 1 comprise only 0.5 percent of all claims in Michigan. Watch the video above for the full reportREAD MORE: Unanswered unemployment claims to receive response by July 4

Unemployment agency promises to pay, respond to claimants who filed before May 1Published: June 24, 2020, 5:24 pmOfficials are promising everyone who filed for unemployment prior to May 1, whose benefits are held up, will be resolved by the 4th of July.

LANSING, Mich. – Eligible Michiganders who are still waiting to receive unemployment insurance benefits may receive funds by July 4. The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) announced Tuesday a goal to respond to all unanswered claims filed before May 1 by July 4. Officials say unpaid claims filed before May 1 comprise only 0.5 percent of all claims in Michigan. When the pandemic hit the state in March and forced residents to isolate at home, claims for unemployment benefits were filed at unprecedented rates. Officials say the UIA will announce a target date to respond to unanswered claims filed after May 1, 2020.

Here’s what scammers are doing to target Michiganders filing for unemploymentPublished: June 19, 2020, 5:46 pmScammers are targeting thousands of Michigan residents trying to get their unemployment benefits, making an already frustrating process even harder.

LANSING, Mich. – Most of the state has reopened as the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) slows, but why are Michigan unemployment offices still closed? Secretary of State offices have reopened, but that’s not true for the Unemployment Insurance Agency. Residents are frustrated because they need answers and information from the UIA, but offices remain closed. With the website having issues and the phone system jammed, it seems like opening offices would help make the process smoother. Unemployment has become a hot button issue in Michigan, and the challenges have angered many residents.

Why are Michigan unemployment offices still closed? Published: June 18, 2020, 6:37 pmMost of the state has reopened as the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) slows, but why are Michigan unemployment offices still closed?

LANSING, Mich. – Lawmakers will have to figure out how to fix the Michigan unemployment system after hearing from frustrated residents about their struggles. Thousands of people are still struggling to file for unemployment in the state, and others are dealing with identity theft issues. On Thursday, lawmakers in Lansing got to hear about the challenges real Michiganders are facing. Now, massive identity theft dangers have hurt many trying to file. Lawmakers will now need to help the people who are still struggling to get their benefits and make sure this doesn’t happen again.

Lawmakers tasked with fixing Michigan unemployment problems after hearing from frustrated residentsPublished: June 18, 2020, 5:23 pmLawmakers will have to figure out how to fix the Michigan unemployment system after hearing from frustrated residents about their struggles.

If you need help with the Public File, call (313) 222-0566. Copyright © 2020 ClickOnDetroit.com is managed by Graham Digital and pubished by Graham Media Group, a division of Graham Holdings.

LANSING, Mich. Michiganders struggling to get their unemployment benefits told lawmakers how frustrating the system is Thursday. An estimated 1.5 million people applied for unemployment benefits across the United States last week. Applications peaked at about 7 million applications in March. In Michigan, many residents are still having problems getting their unemployment benefits, leading to Thursdays hearing. Lawmakers heard complaints from employers and employees, all frustrated with the unemployment system.

DETROIT – With the extra $600 in unemployment benefits during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis set to expire next month, will the weekly payment be extended or replaced by a new “back-to-work” bonus? President Donald Trump’s administration wants to replace the $600 unemployment payment with a new “back-to-work” bonus. What does this mean for Michigan residents collecting unemployment right now? Millions of Americans, and around 1.3 million Michiganders, are collecting unemployment right now. “The idea is to give a bonus to incentivize people to come off of unemployment and go back to work,” financial expert Kirk Cassidy said.

STERLING HEIGHTS, Mich. – Michigan unemployment filers are fuming Monday after they showed up to an office that was supposed to be open and found it is still shut down. This is the latest bump in the road for Michiganders struggling to claim their unemployment benefits. Some drove a long distance, hoping to finally talk with a real person at the Michigan Unemployment Agency. Residents saw online that the office in Sterling Heights would be open Monday, and all day, a steady stream of people arrived and were disappointed to learn that wasn’t the case. PREVIOUSLY: Attorney threatens lawsuit over Michigan freezing unemployment paymentsThere is some good news on the unemployment front.

The state is bringing on a forensic accounting firm and experts to help weed out fraud and clear legitimate claims. People who receive what is known as a monetary determination letter without having applied for jobless benefits or whose name does not match what is on the form may be a victim of identity theft. Michigan has seen 2.2 million new jobless claims since COVID-19 officially arrived in March and businesses were closed to curb the spread. The federal government said this week 21.5 million people are receiving jobless aid, creating added opportunity for criminals. An extra $600 a week in benefits provided as part of a U.S. coronavirus rescue law makes it more lucrative.

DETROIT – An attorney is trying to help people who are in a battle with the state of Michigan after unemployment payments to thousands of residents were paused during an investigation into fraudulent claims. State officials are rushing to investigate the fraudulent unemployment claims, which led to payments to thousands of people -- including those with legitimate claims -- to be frozen. READ: Scammers causing even more delays for Michigan unemployment systemThe Michigan unemployment system has been a mess, and it’s a challenge for many residents to get their benefits, according to attorney Jennifer Lord. Right now, almost 350,000 Michiganders have their unemployment locked due to scams and identity thieves. She said even though it’s frustrating, the best thing residents can do is continue to rely on the resources available online.

Kohl is the director of the University of Michigan Workers Rights Project, which helps workers get unemployment benefits free of charge. The CARES Act created the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) to cover more workers who are not typically covered by many state unemployment programs (like low-income workers, part time workers, self-employed workers, independent contractors, etc.). See the above example about how receiving a pension in Michigan will reduce or eliminate that claimant's ability to collect unemployment benefits. Discuss the balance between a healthy worker not feeling comfortable with returning to a now-opened business that may want to end the unemployment benefits. Plus, the unemployment benefits from workshare programs are paid from the CARES Act's funds rather than states' trust funds.

DETROIT An attorney is threatening to sue the state of Michigan after unemployment payments to thousands of residents were paused during an investigation into fraudulent claims. State officials are rushing to investigate the fraudulent unemployment claims, which led to payments to thousands of people -- including those with legitimate claims -- to be frozen. READ: Scammers causing even more delays for Michigan unemployment systemNow, a lawyer is threatening legal action. The Michigan unemployment system has been a mess, and its a challenge for many residents to get their benefits, according to attorney Jennifer Lord. She said even though its frustrating, the best thing residents can do is continue to rely on the resources available online.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel created a new task force to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of fraud in the unemployment insurance program amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The task force plans to use IP addresses and financial records to identify and prosecute the fraudsters. Officials say this year’s surge in unemployment claims from Michigan families due to the COVID-19 crisis and the urgency to process the claims created opportunities for fraudsters to exploit the system. MORE: Scammers causing even more delays for Michigan unemployment systemThe task force will be led by Nessel, the U.S. Department of Labor, Michigan State Police (MSP) and the Michigan departments of Labor and Economic Opportunity, Management & Budget and Treasury. “Our message to those who wish to fraudulently benefit from the COVID-19 crisis is that we’re watching and you will be caught.”Individuals can report fraud in the unemployment insurance program online here.

DETROIT Help Me Hank found some Michigan companies that are hiring as job numbers start to turn around amid record unemployment caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19). The U.S. economy added 2.5 million jobs last month. Now, they thought the number would be a loss of 9 million jobs, and it was a gain of almost 3 million jobs. Local 4s Help Me Hank set out Friday to find companies that are hiring right now. You can watch the full Help Me Hank report in the video posted above.

DETROIT – Scammers targeting Michigan residents who have legitimately filed for unemployment are causing even more delays in the system as officials are forced to investigate. These scams are affecting thousands of Michiganders who have filed for unemployment, and many others who haven’t filed. READ: New problem keeps more Michigan residents from getting unemployment checksThe problem has gotten so serious that some people who have filed legitimately are having their accounts put on hold as the Unemployment Insurance Agency investigates. Scammers are also working to steal the identities of people who haven’t filed for unemployment. Our WDIV human resources team received letters that appeared to be from the unemployment agency about employees who never filed.

DETROIT – A new scam is impacting thousands who have filed for unemployment and even many who haven’t. The problem is so big that some residents who have filed legitimately are now having their accounts put on hold as the Unemployment Insurance Agency investigates. RELATED: New problem keeps more Michigan residents from getting unemployment checksFormer Lt. Governor Brian Calley and president of the Small Business Association of Michigan announce on Twitter that he was targeted by the scam. Several WDIV team members are now concerned their personal information is in the wrong hands.

New scam steals personal information to file false unemployment claimsPublished: May 29, 2020, 6:19 pmA new scam is impacting thousands who have filed for unemployment and even many who haven’t.

DETROIT – A new problem is keeping more Michigan residents from getting their unemployment checks, and this time, it has nothing to do with a computer glitch. Now, fraud concerns are keeping Michiganders from getting their badly needed benefits. Whitmer says everyone who qualifies for unemployment benefits will get themSandy Hurt, a woman who lives in Houston, started receiving benefits from Michigan that she said she never requested. A UIA spokesperson said the fraud threat is causing issues for some people who are still trying to file and collect unemployment claims. It’s an unfortunate snag affecting a Michigan unemployment system that’s already been riddled with problems.

New problem keeps more Michigan residents from getting unemployment checksPublished: May 27, 2020, 5:10 pmA new problem is keeping more Michigan residents from getting their unemployment checks, and this time, it has nothing to do with a computer glitch.

Gretchen Whitmer is assuring the thousands of residents still struggling to claim their unemployment benefits during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis that they will receive them. While many looking for unemployment benefits have had trouble logging on or calling, this is viewed as an opportunity to look at the situation step by step. As of last week, the director of Michigans Unemployment Insurance Agency said more than a million Michiganders are still trying to get benefits. I will continue working around the clock to ensure everyone who qualifies for unemployment benefits receives them during this time, Whitmer said. Latest numbers show that 92% of eligible claimants have received benefits or have been approved to receive benefits.

LANSING, Mich. – The director of Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance Agency provided an update Wednesday on how close the state is to getting unemployment benefits to the many eligible Michiganders trying to navigate the system. Navigating Michigan’s unemployment system has been difficult for many, as 1.6 million eligible applicants have filed for benefits. Local 4 Consumer Investigator Hank Winchester has been digging into the problems with the system as Steve Gray, the head of the Unemployment Insurance Agency, testified. “It’s now become clearer than ever that it can be hard to get unemployment benefits.”While many looking for unemployment benefits have had trouble logging on or calling, this is viewed as an opportunity to look at the situation step by step. “On average, before this crisis, just 26% of unemployed workers in Michigan received unemployment benefits.”More than a million people are still trying to get benefits, and many have had problems.

DETROIT – One million Michigan residents are already receiving unemployment benefits, but there are thousands who are still struggling to get their own. Consumer Investigator Hank Winchester is answering some key questions about the process. If UIA needs to do further investigation, the process could be delayed. READ: 6 new symptoms officially added to list of coronavirus symptomsCan I work part-time while collecting unemployment? If UIA needs more information from you, you will be contacted.

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Unemployment Agency (UIA) announced Thursday that it has supplied $1.37 billion in benefits to 820,000 unemployed workers in the state amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. According to the agency, most workers who have not yet received their unemployment benefits will receive payments after certifying their claim two weeks after filing. Officials say 1,178,021 Michigan residents have filed for unemployment since March 15, with 134,119 of those claims filed just last week. Whitmer extends unemployment eligibility, cost-sharingTo assist Michigan residents who are financially impacted by the pandemic, the state has opened the unemployment application to self-employed and independent contractors. Michigan residents are encouraged to apply for unemployment benefits online here.

Gretchen Whitmer expanded unemployment benefits to the self-employed and others amid the coronavirus outbreak. READ: Michigan expands unemployment to include self-employed, gig workers; increases weekly benefitsThe new order grants benefits to workers who don’t already qualify for unemployment aid, including those who are self-employed, independent contractors and low-wage workers who can’t work because of the pandemic. The agreement also increases weekly benefits for all unemployed workers by $600. MORE: Michigan implements unemployment filing schedule based on last nameOne of the biggest issues, is actually being able to apply. Michigan’s online system has been swamped and just hasn’t been able to keep up with the demand.

Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak in Michigan, Gov. Whitmer signed an executive order to expand eligibility for unemployment benefits. Access to unemployment benefits will also be extended:Benefits will be increased from 20 to 26 weeks. If you need to apply for unemployment in Michigan, you can visit the state government’s website to file a claim by clicking here. For more information on the application process click here for a fact sheet on applying for unemployment benefits in Michigan.