Unemployment Update #11

The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) is transitioning to a new unemployment tax and benefits system called MiUI, which will replace the current Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM). MiUI is being launched in two parts, with Tax functions now live, and Benefits functions scheduled to be available beginning November 9, 2026.

In this issue of the MiUI Unemployment Update, we are sharing details about what to expect leading up to Go Live and how to be prepared. Please distribute this newsletter throughout your networks and to all those who need to know about the transition to MiUI.

Get Ready for MiUI Go Live!

The launch of MiUI for benefits functions is right around the corner, with Go Live scheduled for November 9, 2026! In preparation, here are some things you need to know and how to prepare.

The Downtime Period

A Downtime Period is a period during which UIA transitions data and information to the new MiUI user platform. It will start at 4:30 p.m. Monday, November 2, and end at 8 a.m. Monday, November 9, when MiUI goes live.  

The current MiWAM system will go permanently offline at 4:30 p.m. Monday, November 2. Users will not be able to use MiWAM nor MiUI during the Downtime Period. Also, all UIA Local Offices and phone lines will be unavailable while the system transition is made. 

The Michigan.gov/UIA website and chatbot will be accessible to answer general unemployment questions.

How to Prepare for the Downtime Period  

To receive timely payment, claimants are strongly encouraged to certify for weekly benefits early prior to the start of the Downtime Period, when MiWAM will be shut down. Those who certify by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, November 2, should not experience a delay in receiving benefits. Certifications will not be possible during the Downtime Period as MiWAM and MiUI will not be available. You will be able to go back and certify for any past weeks in MiUI beginning Monday, November 9, including the week MiWAM was unavailable during the Downtime Period.

For more details about the MiUI launch, what to expect during the Downtime Period, and answers to frequently asked questions, visit Michigan.gov/ReadyforMiUI.

Once MiUI is Live

Please reference the wealth of resources available on MiUI University to assist you in navigating MiUI. 

Register for an Introduction to MiUI Webinar

In preparation for the full transition from MiWAM to MiUI, UIA is hosting Introduction to MiUI webinars to explain MiUI and its benefits functions. Stakeholders or partners who work with claimants may benefit from attending one of these informational sessions.

The one-hour webinars can be scheduled through Nov. 6, 2026. Click the button below to choose your session today:

Register for a MiUI Webinar

Note: Scroll down the page past the FAQs to select the MiUI Webinar.

Stay Informed at MiUI University

To keep you informed and help you stay on track ahead of the launch, be sure to check out the MiUI University for Workers page, which offers information about the transition to MiUI. This page will be updated regularly with support resources to educate you about MiUI, including overviews, guides, and videos.

Visit MiUI University for Workers

Thank you for your continued support as we transition to the new MiUI system. We look forward to collaborating with you beyond the launch to make this transition a success.

We're here to help every step of the way! 

Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency