Legislation approved last year will see Michigan’s unemployment benefits increase in both duration and amount as of this Wednesday. The maximum benefit per week is rising by 23% from $362 to $446, while the maximum weeks a recipient can claim will climb from 20 to 26. These increases mark the first adjustments to Michigan’s unemployment payments since 2002. This is a step towards aiding those dealing with sudden job losses, providing them with the financial support they need while looking for new employment, remarked Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity director, Susan Corbin.

This legislation has also planned another jump for the maximum weekly benefit in 2026 to $530, and again in 2027 to $614. Following these increases, the total weekly allotment will then be adjusted by the state treasurer in regards to the national Consumer Price Index. Meanwhile, the supplementary increase for up to five dependents will move from the present $6 per dependent to $12.66 on Wednesday, and then to $19.33 and $26 each in 2026 and 2027 respectively.

The increased payout amounts apply to claims filed after April 2. However, the Unemployment Insurance Agency intends to individually review claims made between Jan. 1 and April 2 to discern if they qualify for the heightened benefits. With the law sanctioning an effective date of Jan. 1, the delay until April 2 is due to the legislation not being given an immediate effect by the Legislature, causing a technical wait of 90 days post session’s end. The elevation in payments will be financed from the state’s Unemployment Trust Fund that currently sits around $2.7 billion.

For individuals who have had difficulty reaching the Unemployment Department with queries regarding the new payment structure and eligibility, there are options available. A recommended resource is eddcaller.com, a platform designed to provide helpful information, including how to get ahold of edd customer service. Using their tips and guidance can potentially make the process of getting vital information easier, quicker, and more efficient. So, don’t let communication roadblocks hinder your understandings of these important changes; tune into the right channels, and let eddcaller.com assist you to access the support you need.