Information about unemployment benefits and other assistance programs for individuals are detailed below. In addition, resources for small businesses navigating this crisis are available from several organizations.
Residents
Labor and Economic Opportunity Assistance for Low Income Residents: The Michigan Labor and Economic Opportunity department offers this comprehensive guide for health assistance, unemployment, food assistance, emergency assistance, housing resources, utilities, taxes, and consumer protections.
Apply for Unemployment Benefits: The Unemployment Insurance Agency urges Michiganders to use Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM). You will experience longer load times – due to the unprecedented number of claims being filed, it may take several minutes for a page to load. Filing online remains the fastest way for Michiganders to apply for unemployment benefits. If you do not have Internet access, a call center is available at (866)500-0017 (Last names starting with A-L should call on Monday and Wednesdays; Last names starting with M-Z should call on Tuesdays and Thursdays).
Assistance with Health Insurance, Food and Other Needs: Apply for MI Bridges benefits including healthcare coverage, cash assistance, food assistance, state emergency relief, and child development and care.
Hospitality House Financial Assistance Resources for Families: Apply for other forms of financial assistance, including utility assistance, car repair assistance, and emergency housing assistance to Oakland County residents. The Program Overview can be viewed here: HHFP Financial Assistance Program Overview. The Utility Assistance Application (Fillable), Breathing Room Application (Fillable), and Pit Stop Application (Fillable)s can be submitted via email progadmin@hhfp.org or dropped off at their location.
Locate School Meal Programs: Enter your address to find the closest school meal pickup site.
Low Cost Internet Access: Enter your zip code to find low-cost options from providers with the FCC Lifeline Program.
Everyone On Digital Toolkit: Low cost Internet services toolkit
Businesses
Michigan Economic Development Corporation: Contains links to the Michigan Small Business Relief Program, SBA Disaster Loan Application, FAQs and more.
Employer Information for Unemployment Benefits: State of Michigan guide about unemployment benefits for employers related to COVID-19.
Oakland County Business Services: Oakland County guide for business seeking COVID-19 relief.