By Staff
LANSING – Michigan's Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) has been overwhelmed by a flood of new unemployment claims, resulting in jammed phone lines that make it difficult for workers to receive benefits.
In response, new state Rep. Matt Lori, R-Constantine, reminds residents that his office is available to help.
"It is completely unacceptable that unemployed workers are not able to get the benefits they've earned because of poor planning on the government's part," said Lori. "If you are having trouble filing for benefits, don't be afraid to call my office. My staff and I will do whatever we can to help."
The easiest way to file a claim is online at www.michigan.gov/uia.
The UIA Web site is available from 7 a.m. Monday through 7 p.m. Saturday.
Although the UIA has added an additional server to speed up the Web site, residents are advised that the best time to file is outside of normal business hours, when there is less traffic and the site is less likely to be busy.
Workers who have applied for unemployment benefits must call the UIA's automated system once every two weeks to certify eligibility requirements; callers who have not been able to get though at their appointed time due to high call volume should call 1-888-638-3993 Thursday or Friday between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Residents who are still having difficulty can contact Lori's office by calling him toll-free at 1-877-262-5959 or by e-mailing him at mattlori@house.mi.gov.