Michigan Unemployment Benefits for Contract Workers: What You Need to Know

As a contract worker in Michigan, you may not be aware that you are eligible for unemployment benefits. In fact, the COVID-19 pandemic has put many contract workers out of work, and the state of Michigan has made efforts to ensure that they are not left behind in terms of financial assistance.

In this article, we will discuss how Michigan unemployment benefits work for contract workers, what you need to do to file a claim, and what other resources are available to you.

Who is Considered a Contract Worker in Michigan?

A contract worker – also known as an independent contractor – is someone who is self-employed and hired to complete specific tasks or projects for a client or company. They are not considered employees and therefore do not receive benefits like health insurance, paid time off, or sick leave.

Examples of contract workers include freelance writers, graphic designers, consultants, and construction workers.

How to Qualify for Michigan Unemployment Benefits as a Contract Worker

To qualify for Michigan unemployment benefits, you must have earned a minimum of $3,589 in at least two quarters of your base period. Your base period is the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before the date you file your claim.

For contract workers, the base period may be more complicated to determine. This is because contract workers often have irregular or sporadic income. However, the state of Michigan has made adjustments to their unemployment eligibility requirements to accommodate contract workers during the pandemic.

Under the current adjusted requirements, contract workers can qualify for unemployment benefits if:

– They have lost work due to the COVID-19 pandemic

– They have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms and are unable to work

– They are caring for a family member who has been diagnosed with COVID-19

– They are caring for a child whose school or daycare has closed due to the pandemic

If you meet any of these criteria, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits. However, it is important to note that you must still meet the earnings and work requirements as outlined above.

How to File a Claim for Michigan Unemployment Benefits

To file a claim for Michigan unemployment benefits, you can visit the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) website or call the UIA customer service number at 1-866-500-0017.

You will need to provide personal information, including your Social Security number, employment history, and reason for unemployment. You will also need to certify each week that you are still unemployed and looking for work.

What Other Resources are Available for Michigan Contract Workers?

In addition to unemployment benefits, Michigan contract workers may also be eligible for other forms of financial assistance. These include:

– Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA): This is a federal program that provides up to 39 weeks of unemployment benefits to individuals who are not otherwise eligible for regular unemployment benefits – including contract workers. To qualify, you must have lost work due to the COVID-19 pandemic and be unable to work due to a COVID-related reason.

– Michigan Small Business Relief Program: This program provides grants and loans to Michigan small businesses – including self-employed individuals and sole proprietors – who have been negatively impacted by the pandemic.

– Michigan Works!: Michigan Works! is a statewide network of centers that provides job seekers with career services, training, and employment opportunities. They also have resources for self-employed individuals and entrepreneurs.

Conclusion

Michigan contract workers have options when it comes to financial assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the eligibility requirements for unemployment benefits may be more complex, the state has made efforts to ensure that contract workers are not left behind.

If you have lost work due to the pandemic, don`t hesitate to explore your options for financial assistance. The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency and other organizations are there to help.