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Job Loss Support and Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in Michigan

Job Loss Support & Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in Michigan (2025 Guide)

Last updated: September 2025

This is a straight‑talk field guide for Michigan single moms who lost a job or have been out of work for a while. Every step below is Michigan‑specific, with how to apply, what to expect, and where to call. Use the quick actions and numbers first, then go deeper by section. You can apply for most state help through the same account on MI Bridges and track unemployment in MiWAM (Michigan Web Account Manager). Keep this page open while you apply.


According to the state, Michigan raised unemployment pay and restored 26 weeks for new claims filed on or after April 2, 2025, and the maximum weekly benefit is scheduled to rise again in 2026 and 2027. Confirm details in your MiWAM account or by phone before you budget around an amount. (michigan.gov)

If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

Quick help box — phone numbers and links to keep handy

How to claim Michigan Unemployment Insurance (UI) without delays

Michigan law increased benefits in 2025 and restored up to 26 weeks for new claims filed April 2, 2025 or later. The maximum benefit rose from 362to362 to 446 in 2025, with scheduled increases to 530in2026and530 in 2026 and 614 in 2027; the per‑dependent amount also rose. File a claim in MiWAM, and monitor messages in your account for any identity or wage verification holds. (michigan.gov)

Key action first: File your claim online and book your Register‑for‑Work verification with Michigan Works! before you certify the first time; UIA requires both steps (create or update your job seeker profile on Pure Michigan Talent Connect and meet with Michigan Works! staff virtually or in person). Call UIA at 1-866-500-0017 if you hit a MiLogin/MiWAM issue. (michigan.gov)

  • Eligibility basics: You must be able and available for work, and complete at least one valid work‑search activity each benefit week (examples: applying for jobs, attending a job fair, building your MiTalent profile). UIA details are posted under Work Search and the Work Search Requirement page. (michigan.gov)
  • Payments and weeks: New claims filed on/after April 2, 2025 can qualify for up to 26 weeks; claims filed Jan 1–Apr 2, 2025 may get retroactive benefit increases (not extra weeks). Watch MiWAM for notices and use the UIA contact page to schedule a phone/virtual appointment. (michigan.gov)
  • Language & accessibility: The UIA phone system has Spanish/Arabic options and offers TTY at 1-866-366-0004. For hearing access during virtual appointments, closed‑caption is available; book via UIA appointments. (michigan.gov)

UI steps you can follow this afternoon

  • Create or sign in to MiWAM, start your claim, and upload your ID (front/back). Keep employer addresses and last day worked handy. If the site errors, call 1-866-500-0017. (michigan.gov)
  • Register for work: create a job seeker profile at MiTalent.org, then verify with your local Michigan Works! office (phone or virtual appointment). You’ll get an email when verification transmits to UIA. (michigan.gov)
  • Certify every two weeks in MiWAM (fastest) or by phone via MARVIN 1-866-638-3993 and report at least one valid work‑search activity for each week you claim. See UIA’s Work Search guide for what counts. (michigan.gov)

Special rules single moms ask about

  • If you quit for safety reasons: Michigan recognizes domestic‑violence related quits for UI (the exemption sunset in 2021 but lawmakers have considered reinstatement—check your current status with UIA or legal aid). See the legal background at MCL 421.29a and follow pending updates in the Legislature’s bill analyses. (codes.findlaw.com)
  • Child support and taxes: UI benefits can be reduced for child support withholding and tax withholdings. UIA’s tax FAQ explains that your 1099‑G includes amounts sent to third parties on your behalf. Call UIA to check what’s withheld from your weekly benefit. See UIA tax guidance. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for the free Unemployed Worker Advocacy Program after you receive a Notice of Hearing (call 1-800-638-3994), and read how to prepare for a MOAHR hearing at MOAHR Unemployment Appeals. If you need broader legal help, see Michigan Legal Help’s UI hub. (michigan.gov)

Quick UI timeline (typical, not guaranteed)

Step Where Typical time Pro tips
File initial claim MiWAM Same day Save/print your confirmation. Keep your routing/account for direct deposit. (michigan.gov)
Register for work MiTalent.org + Michigan Works! 1–3 days Don’t wait—verification must post before your first certification. (michigan.gov)
First certification MiWAM or MARVIN 1-866-638-3993 End of week 2 Log at least one valid work‑search activity per week. (michigan.gov)
Decision/payment MiWAM Varies Respond to any fact‑finding in MiWAM on time to avoid delays. (michigan.gov)

How to stop a utility shutoff in Michigan today

Key action first: File State Emergency Relief (SER) in MI Bridges and call your utility the same day. The state notes that when you apply for SER shutoff help online, a notice is automatically sent to DTE to place a temporary hold on disconnection while MDHHS reviews your case. Use MI Bridges, then call your provider to log your case ID and ask about payment options. (michigan.gov)

Utility shutoff quick steps

Step What to do Proof to gather
Apply for SER Submit in MI Bridges; note your case number ID, shutoff notice, last 30 days income, recent bill. (michigan.gov)
Call your utility Tell them you filed SER; ask for a hold and a payment plan review Case ID, last 4 of SSN, address
Contact a MEAP grantee If SER requires a copay or you’re denied, ask a grantee to help cover the gap (e.g., THAW). SER decision or pending letter. (thawfund.org)
Claim Heating Credit File MI‑1040CR‑7 by 9/30 Household resource info and heat costs. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the MPSC at 1-800-292-9555 to log a complaint and explore payment protections; ask about eligibility changes under the expanded MEAP (income criteria moving to 60% of state median income starting Oct 1, 2025). Dial 2‑1‑1 to find a local agency with emergency funds. (michigan.gov)

Water bill help (including Birmingham and Detroit)

Key action first: If you’re in a GLWA community (most of SE Michigan), apply for WRAP. The Great Lakes Water Authority’s WRAP offers arrears help, bill credits, and minor plumbing repairs for households up to 200% FPL. Wayne/Monroe residents apply via Wayne Metro at 1-313-386-9727; Oakland and Washtenaw residents may apply through United Way SEM (water programs line 1-844-211-4994). (glwater.org)

  • Birmingham Water Bill Help: Call the City of Birmingham Water Department at 1-248-530-1830 for billing questions, and ask if you are in a WRAP‑eligible service area for referrals. Keep GLWA’s general line (844-455-4592) handy for regional questions. (stories.opengov.com)
  • Detroit customers: Detroit has the income‑based DWSD Lifeline Plan (as low as 18–18–56 monthly; past‑due debt erased upon enrollment). New enrollments may be paused while funding is replenished; if paused, ask about DWSD EasyPay ($10 down; 36‑month terms) or recertification via Wayne Metro at 1-313-386-9727. (detroitmi.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 2‑1‑1 or your county Community Action Agency listed under WRAP partners for any local water fund, and ask MDHHS about the statewide Water Assistance Program (up to $3,000/year in bill assistance, plumbing repairs where available). (glwater.org)

Cash, food, and healthcare while you search for work

Key action first: Apply on MI Bridges the same day you file for unemployment so benefits can stack correctly. Use Food Assistance (FAP/SNAP) for groceries; Healthy Michigan Plan for medical coverage; and WIC if you’re pregnant/postpartum or have kids under 5. (michigan.gov)

  • Summer grocery benefits for school‑age kids: Michigan’s Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) provides $120 per eligible child for summer groceries in 2025; many families get it automatically. Check MDHHS updates and eligibility windows. (michigan.gov)
  • School meals: Funding in the 2024‑25 School Aid Budget continued universal free meals in public schools statewide; families should still complete income forms. For 2025‑26, check your district’s notice and MDE updates as budgets renew. (michigan.gov)
  • Cash assistance while unemployed: The Family Independence Program (FIP) lifetime limit rose from 48 to 60 months effective April 1, 2025. Applicants must also engage with PATH (work participation) where required. Apply in MI Bridges. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a Navigator at MI Bridges Help 1-844-799-9876, and call Michigan 2‑1‑1 to locate a pantry or short‑term cash fund. If you’re in SE MI, Gleaners Community Food Bank can route you to nearby distributions. (michigan.gov)

Child care while job hunting or in training

Key action first: Apply for the Child Development and Care (CDC) child care subsidy through MI Bridges and use Great Start to Quality to find providers; you can call the statewide Resource Center at 1-877-614-7328 for help finding openings and flexible hours. (michigan.gov)

  • The state posts current parent policies and provider rates on the CDC program site, including 2024–25 updates to scholarship rates and I‑Billing access changes. If you need help navigating the system, your Michigan Works! case manager can often coordinate with MiLEAP or MDHHS. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Great Start to Quality for low‑cost or sliding‑scale spots and check your school district’s preschool/Head Start slots. For short‑term care during interviews, call your local Michigan Works! to see if supportive services are available. (greatstarttoquality.org)

Health insurance after a layoff

Key action first: Check Medicaid first, then the Marketplace. Adults 19–64 can qualify for the Healthy Michigan Plan (income‑based). If you don’t qualify, use HealthCare.gov during Open Enrollment or your Special Enrollment Period after job loss; for free enrollment help, search LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov. (michigan.gov)

  • Michigan still uses the federal Marketplace platform for 2025 coverage; DIFS posts dates and contact info on the state health insurance page. If you prefer phone help, call the Marketplace at 1-800-318-2596, or the Michigan Health Care Helpline 1-855-789-5610. See DIFS Health Insurance and CMS Marketplace snapshot. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Michigan 2‑1‑1 about free Navigators in your county, or connect with ACCESS Navigators if you need help in Arabic or other languages. The DIFS page lists enrollment dates if you miss deadlines. (mi211.org)

Re‑employment, training, and tuition options that work for parents

Key action first: Call your local Michigan Works! and request a same‑week appointment to review resumes, training vouchers, apprenticeships, and job fairs. Use the statewide Michigan Works! map or call 1-800-285-WORKS (9675) to book. (michiganworks.org)

  • Ask about short‑term certificates that pay (CNA, CDL‑B/C, IT help desk) and if you qualify for WIOA‑funded tuition or supportive services (bus passes, work gear). Check your local board’s website for hiring fairs (example: West Central’s summer Hiring Party series). (bigrapidsnews.com)
  • For college‑level training, Michigan Reconnect remains open for adults 25+ to attend community or Tribal college tuition‑free; the temporary 21–24 expansion ended Dec 31, 2024 (those accepted must have enrolled by Summer 2025). Call the Reconnect help line 1-888-447-2687. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Michigan Works! case manager about short programs aligned to local employers, or try employer‑paid training pipelines posted on MiTalent.org. If you need a GED first, many boards host adult education co‑enrollment. (michiganworks.org)

Quick Reference “Who to Call” Cheat Sheet

Need Best first call Backup
UI benefits UIA Claimant Line 1-866-500-0017 Schedule a UIA appointment; Advocacy Program 1-800-638-3994. (michigan.gov)
SER/utilities MI Bridges; MPSC 1-800-292-9555 THAW 1-800-866-8429; 2‑1‑1. (michigan.gov)
Water bills WRAP 1-313-386-9727 (Wayne/Monroe) DWSD Lifeline/EasyPay 313-267-8000. (glwater.org)
Food/WIC MDHHS Food; WIC Local pantries: Gleaners 866‑GLEANER. (michigan.gov)
Child care CDC subsidy via MI Bridges Great Start to Quality 1-877-614-7328. (michigan.gov)

Application Checklist (printable/screenshot‑friendly)

  • ID & SSNs: State ID/driver’s license, Social Security numbers (you and kids). Use UIA ID tips and upload clearly. (michigan.gov)
  • Income proof: Last 30 days of pay stubs; unemployment letter; child support; any benefits (see MI Bridges document list). (michigan.gov)
  • Bills & notices: Shutoff, past‑due utility bills, lease, water bill, property tax statement, childcare invoice. The MPSC guide outlines SER paperwork. (michigan.gov)
  • Bank info: Routing/account numbers for direct deposit (UIA and MDHHS programs). See UIA contact if you need to switch to a benefits card. (michigan.gov)
  • Job history: Names/addresses of all employers in last 18 months and last day worked for MiWAM filing. (miwam.net)

Common mistakes to avoid (real‑world)

  • Missing the Register‑for‑Work step: Many claims stall because claimants didn’t verify with Michigan Works!. You must create a job seeker profile and confirm it with staff before your first certification week. (michigan.gov)
  • Skipping weekly work search: You must report at least one valid work‑search activity each week you claim benefits—there’s no “make‑up” week. Read UIA’s Work Search rules and keep receipts/screenshots. (michigan.gov)
  • Not telling your utility you applied for SER: Filing SER triggers a hold for certain utilities, but calling to note your case helps ensure the flag is on the account during review. See MPSC guidance and call your provider. (michigan.gov)
  • Waiting to file the Home Heating Credit: Many families forget MI‑1040CR‑7 (due every Sept 30). It’s separate from SER/MEAP and puts money back into your budget. (michigan.gov)

Reality check

Funding, staffing, and law changes can slow things down. You might face long phone waits with UIA, delayed MI Bridges messages, or limited MEAP/WRAP slots mid‑year. Always time‑stamp your filings, keep screenshots, and call to confirm receipt. If a program says “paused,” look for alternatives (ex: DWSD EasyPay when Lifeline is paused; MEAP partner funds when SER requires a copay). (michigan.gov)

Resources by region (examples you can call now)

Local organizations, charities, churches, and support groups

How to find or keep housing if income dropped

Key action first: If you face homelessness or eviction, contact your HARA (Housing Assessment and Resource Agency) for your county. MSHDA funds HARAs to coordinate shelter, diversion, and rapid re‑housing; find your HARA via MSHDA Looking for Help and ask about prevention funds. (michigan.gov)

  • Emergency rent assistance statewide is limited since CERA closed, but HARAs may have local funds. For SER rent help, apply in MI Bridges and ask your worker about local prevention funds. (michigan.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask 2‑1‑1 for local eviction diversion or legal clinics, and check HUD’s renter resources for counseling. If you get a court date, bring proof you applied for aid. (mi211.org)

Diverse Communities: getting what you need quickly

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for affirming providers through Michigan 2‑1‑1 and request language/identity accommodations up front. UIA phone menus offer Spanish/Arabic, with TTY access at 1-866-366-0004; schedule UIA captioned virtual appointments if you’re hard of hearing. (mi211.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Note access needs on all applications (large print forms, extended call time). For Medicaid transportation and care coordination, see MDHHS policy updates (managed care covers NEMT to covered services). Use Healthy Michigan Plan and ask Michigan Works! for accommodations at appointments. (medicaid.gov)
  • Veteran single mothers: Check benefits with the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency and ask about emergency funds; ask United Way 2‑1‑1 for veteran‑specific energy and rent aid. If you live in Wayne County, see Wayne County Veterans hardship services links from DWSD. (mi211.org)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: Getting help does not affect your children’s eligibility for WIC or Summer EBT; ask for interpreters at MDHHS. UIA can add interpreters through its customer service line. (michigan.gov)
  • Tribal‑specific resources: If you are an enrolled member or parent of a tribal child, ask MSHDA HARAs and your tribal social services about rent or utility assistance and apply in MI Bridges to layer benefits. (michigan.gov)
  • Rural single moms: Ask your Michigan Works! board about virtual services and supportive mileage; energy aid through MPSC/MEAP can be done by phone. Use 2‑1‑1 to find mobile pantries and church funds. (michigan.gov)
  • Single fathers: Apply for aid in MI Bridges—caregiver gender doesn’t change eligibility. If you need to establish or modify support, start at MiChildSupport or call 1-866-540-0008 for the Office of Child Support. (michigan.gov)
  • Language access: Request interpreter services on every call; UIA phone tree offers Spanish/Arabic, and Michigan 2‑1‑1 supports 180+ languages. For TTY, dial 711 relay or the UIA’s dedicated TTY line. (mi211.org)

Frequently searched questions (Michigan‑specific)

  • How much can I get on unemployment in 2025, and for how long? Michigan’s maximum weekly benefit is $446 for 2025, with scheduled increases in 2026 and 2027; maximum weeks are now up to 26 for new claims filed on/after April 2, 2025. File and certify in MiWAM. (michigan.gov)
  • How do I prove I’m looking for work every week? Log at least one valid activity each week (apply to jobs, attend a fair, update your resume in MiTalent). See UIA’s Work Search guide for the exact items UIA accepts. (michigan.gov)
  • Can I get UI if I quit because of abuse or safety risks? Michigan law has recognized domestic‑violence related quits as good cause in the past; watch for current status or talk to UIA Advocacy and legal aid. See MCL 421.29a background. (michigan.gov)
  • What’s the fastest way to stop a shutoff? File SER in MI Bridges, then call your utility to place a hold and ask about a payment plan. For energy, ask a MEAP provider if you need help with a SER copay. (michigan.gov)
  • Is there water help in Oakland County or Washtenaw? Yes—apply for WRAP through United Way SEM’s portal or call 1-844-211-4994. For Detroit addresses, check DWSD Lifeline/EasyPay. (glwater.org)
  • Can I get cash assistance if I’ve already hit 48 months in the past? Possibly—Michigan raised the FIP lifetime limit to 60 months as of April 1, 2025. You must meet current eligibility and PATH rules. Apply in MI Bridges. (michigan.gov)
  • Do kids still get free school meals? For 2024‑25, yes—Michigan funded universal school meals; for 2025‑26, check your district updates and MDE notices as the new budget is finalized. (michigan.gov)
  • Where do I appeal a UI denial? Your hearing is with MOAHR; get a free Advocate via the UIA Advocacy Program by calling 1-800-638-3994 after you receive a Notice of Hearing. (michigan.gov)
  • What’s the childcare number to call if I can’t find a spot? Call Great Start to Quality at 1-877-614-7328; apply for CDC subsidy in MI Bridges to help cover costs. (greatstarttoquality.org)
  • How do I get a live person at MI Bridges? Use the MI Bridges Help Desk at 1-844-799-9876 or visit your local MDHHS office (county map on the same page). (michigan.gov)
  • What if I need child support services while jobless? Apply online at MiChildSupport or call the Office of Child Support 1-866-540-0008. UI benefits may be withheld for current support. (michigan.gov)

County‑specific notes (where programs differ)

“If Your Application Gets Denied” — troubleshoot fast

  • Unemployment: Immediately file a protest/appeal in MiWAM and request a free Advocate (1-800-638-3994). Read MOAHR’s hearing guide so you know what to bring (witnesses with first‑hand knowledge, separation documents). (michigan.gov)
  • SER/MEAP: Ask your MDHHS worker what was missing (common: shutoff notice, ID, income). Re‑apply with the complete docs; call a MEAP grantee to cover the copay if required. (michigan.gov)
  • Food/Medicaid: If something looks off in MI Bridges, call the Help Desk 1-844-799-9876 and your county MDHHS office; ask for a case conference to resolve quickly. (michigan.gov)

Tables you can skim fast

Programs at a glance (single‑mom, job‑loss edition)

Program Who it helps Where to apply Typical wait
Unemployment Insurance Recently laid‑off, able/available for work MiWAM Varies; watch MiWAM; respond to fact‑finding. (michigan.gov)
SER (utilities/rent) Households with shutoff/eviction risk MI Bridges Crisis cases prioritized; utility hold may apply. (michigan.gov)
MEAP Energy bills, SER copays Contact a MEAP grantee Depends on funding cycle (Oct 1–Sep 30).
WRAP (water) GLWA community households ≤200% FPL WRAP partners Rolling; varies by county/partner.
Healthy Michigan Plan Adults 19–64, low income MI Bridges Eligibility review in MI Bridges.
WIC Pregnant/postpartum; kids <5 WIC intake Appointment required; local clinic schedules.
CDC Child Care Parents working/school/job search MI Bridges Depends on provider availability.

Quick contact directory (save these to your phone)

Service Number Link
UIA Claimants 1-866-500-0017 UIA Contact
MI Bridges Help 1-844-799-9876 MDHHS Contacts
MPSC (energy) 1-800-292-9555 Get Help
2‑1‑1 statewide 1-844-875-9211 mi211.org
Wayne Metro WRAP 1-313-386-9727 WRAP/Wayne Metro

Unemployment essentials (what changed in 2025)

Item 2024 2025 Source
Max weekly benefit $362 $446 (scheduled to rise in 2026/2027) LEO press
Max benefit weeks Up to 20 Up to 26 (new claims 4/2/2025+) LEO press
Dependents addon $6 each $12.66 each (2025) LEO/UIA

Water help options (SE Michigan)

If you live in… Try this first Backup
Detroit (DWSD) Lifeline Plan via Wayne Metro 1-313-386-9727 EasyPay; WRAP.
Oakland/Washtenaw WRAP via United Way SEM 1-844-211-4994 Call 2‑1‑1 for local funds.
Birmingham Call Water Department 1-248-530-1830 and ask about WRAP eligibility Apply for SER in MI Bridges.

Where to find food fast

Region Primary resource Notes
SE Michigan Gleaners 866‑GLEANER SE MI pantry/mobiles; call early for schedules.
East/Thumb Food Bank of Eastern MI 1‑810‑239‑4441 County‑by‑county distribution calendars online.
Statewide mi211.org Search “food pantry” and your ZIP; chat available.

Real‑world examples (from the field)

  • Detroit mom with a DTE shutoff notice: She filed SER in MI Bridges the morning she received the 10‑day notice and called DTE to flag her pending case. A MEAP partner (THAW, 1‑800‑866‑8429) covered her SER copay. She then enrolled in LSP with help from a partner agency.
  • Birmingham renter behind on water and gas: She called the Birmingham Water Department (1‑248‑530‑1830), confirmed WRAP coverage for her block, then filed SER for energy in MI Bridges. MEAP funds bridged the required copay.
  • Flint caregiver on fixed income: She called the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan and was routed to a pantry near her school pickup time. She also applied for WRAP via the local administrator to handle arrears and minor plumbing repairs.

What to say when the phone menus are long

  • UIA: “Schedule appointment” (phone or virtual) via UIA Contact; ask for interpreter if needed. Keep your MiWAM ID and last 4 of SSN ready.
  • Utilities: “I filed SER today in MI Bridges; please place a hold for case review.” If denied or short, ask, “Which MEAP agency covers my ZIP?”
  • Water: “I’m calling to ask about WRAP enrollment” (or “DWSD EasyPay if you are in Detroit and Lifeline is paused).

Spanish summary (resumen en español)

Esta sección es una traducción generada por herramientas de IA para su conveniencia. Para solicitudes oficiales, use los sitios y teléfonos del estado.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur—email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is for general information for Michigan residents and is not legal advice. Program rules, dollar amounts, and funding can change at any time. Always confirm with the official agency before you act. Use MiWAM for UI claims and MI Bridges for MDHHS benefits. If you face an urgent safety or health risk, call 9‑1‑1.

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