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Michigan Set To Increase Unemployment Benefits Starting January 1st
Russ Survance
Fri, 19 Dec 2025 08:34:42 EST
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Michigan's maximum weekly unemployment benefit will rise to $530 on January 1st, 2026, marking the latest phase of a bipartisan legislative overhaul designed to modernize the state's social safety net.
New claims filed in 2026 will qualify for a maximum of $530 per week, an $84 increase from the 2025 rate. The allowance for dependents is also rising to $19.33 per individual (capped at five).
These changes stem from a 2024 law signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The reform previously extended the benefit duration from 20 to 26 weeks and ended a two-decade freeze on rate increases.
To maintain benefits, recipients must remain registered with MiTalent.org and be actively seeking full-time work. Notably, work search requirements will become stricter in July 2026, requiring three weekly activities instead of one.
On New Year's Day, the state minimum wage will also climb to $13.73 per hour, which may impact future benefit calculations for claimants.
The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) plans to launch MiUI, a modernized claims system, in Summer 2026.
Claimants should also watch for 1099-G tax forms arriving by mid-January for the 2025 filing season.
