State Unemployment Benefits in Michigan: when someone dies
A 3-step process for Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) after a death in Michigan.
OverviewWhen someone dies
Administering agency
Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA)
Phone1-866-500-0017
WebsiteVisit website →
Verified Jul 2026
Steps to take
- Call UIA at 1-866-500-0017 to report the claimant's death so benefit payments stop.
- Any benefits issued for weeks after the date of death are an overpayment the agency recovers through recoupment (UIA Fact Sheet 174).
- Ask UIA whether accrued benefits are owed for eligible weeks before death and what documentation is required; the agency determines documentation requirements administratively.
Frequently asked questions
The death should be reported to UIA so payments stop. Benefits issued for weeks after the date of death are an overpayment the agency recovers through recoupment, and UIA determines whether accrued benefits are owed for eligible weeks before death.
Under MCL 421.27(e), accrued unpaid benefits become due and payable to the claimant's legal heir or guardian, or to any other person UIA finds equitably entitled because they incurred burial or other necessary expenses on the claimant's behalf. Call UIA at 1-866-500-0017 to initiate the claim and learn what documentation is required.
Sources
Data sourced from State Unemployment Benefits in Michigan primary sources (4 pages reviewed). How we research.
Administering agency
Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA)
Phone1-866-500-0017
WebsiteVisit website →
Verified Jul 2026