Michigan Employer Advisor: October 2023

Greetings, Employers!

A reminder that time is running out to submit 3rd Quarter Wage and Tax Reports to the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA). They are due by Oct. 25. Also, don’t forget to confirm in MiWAM that your business is caught up with any previous reports. Late or missing reports could lead to being charged a penalty or interest.

As the strike against the Big Three continues, please take note of three helpful employer services UIA offers to ease the unemployment insurance benefits process for your employees:

• Work Share.
• Registration and Seeking Work Waiver.
• Employer Filed Claims.

Learn more about these programs and others on the Employer Homepage at Michigan.gov/UIA.

Speaking of the labor dispute, if your business hires a union member who is out on strike, you must classify them as an employee. For more information, see our Independent Contractor or Employee fact sheet.

In this month’s newsletter we provide an update about a shorter application form to apply for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) when a business hires from targeted groups. We also have a new video that explains how to set up a Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM) account, instructions on how to file a Freedom of Information Act request, and a reminder about upcoming Employer Seminars.

If you want to suggest an article or topic for a future edition of the Employer Advisor newsletter, or just want to tell us how much you enjoy reading it, please send a message to UIA-EmployerAdvisor@Michigan.gov. You can find past newsletters on the Employer Homepage at Michigan.gov/UIA.

Shorter WOTC Application Makes it Easier to Apply for New Hire Tax Credit

The U.S. Department of Labor has updated the 9061 form for its Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which is a federal business credit available to private, for-profit employers who hire workers from targeted groups that experience difficulty finding work. The UIA processes WOTC applications filed by Michigan employers.

The new application is shorter, however the eligibility requirements for new hires have not changed. Tax credits are available to employers who hire military veterans, ex-felons, those on assistance programs, and workers from other specific groups.

WOTC requests submitted using the expired form will not be accepted. Applications for a tax credit must be submitted within 28 days of a new hire’s start date to be considered having been filed in a timely manner. Paper applications should be temporarily sent to: UIA/WOTC Unit, 3024 W. Grand Boulevard, Suite 12-400, Detroit, MI 48202-6024

The new application is available at Michigan.gov/WOTC. If you apply for the tax credit, the fastest and most efficient way to have your application processed is to submit it to UIA through your MiWAM account.

Not familiar with WOTC? Go to Michigan.gov/WOTC for videos, infographics, brochure, links to forms, and more.                            

Need Help Creating a MiWAM Account? Let This New Video be Your Guide

Creating a Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM) account for your unemployment insurance needs can be quick and easy. You must have an account to be able to file your quarterly wage and tax reports electronically.

The Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) has created a helpful video that explains in easy-to-understand language how to set up an account, what information is needed and what to do when you get your authorization code.

Even if you use a third-party administrator, it’s still best practice to make sure you have access to your company’s MiWAM account to keep up to date with any correspondence or requests from the UIA. As an employer, it’s your responsibility to monitor your account and any related activity.

There's Still Time to Sign up for Helpful Employer Seminars that Explain UI

We had another outstanding Employer Seminar this month. There is strong interest in the online sessions and small and large businesses are encouraged to attend to learn more about unemployment insurance.

Upcoming seminars are schedule for:

• November 8, from 10 a.m. to noon.
• December 13, from 10 a.m. to noon.

The seminars, led by staff from the UIA’s Office of Employer Ombudsman, address topics ranging from navigating your Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM) account, to benefit claims, to appeals. There’s also an opportunity to ask questions. Additional, helpful resources will also be provided.

You can watch previous seminars by going to the Employer Homepage at Michigan.gov/UIA. 

Register for a seminar.

Countdown to the UIA’s Launch of Its New, User-Friendly Computer System

[Click on the image above for more information.]

The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency has scheduled a Fall 2024 launch of the first phase of its new computer system that will serve employers and claimants.

The new system puts a high priority on ease of use and efficient design with the user in mind.

Employers will be the first group with live access to the system and services UIA provides. We will continue to communicate updates as we progress through the design and development.