Michigan workers wrongfully asked to repay pandemic unemployment benefits have until December 20, 2024, to join a $55 million class action settlement.
$55 Million Settlement Aims to Address Pandemic-Era UIA Issues
A critical deadline is approaching for Michigan workers who may have been wrongfully required to repay unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lawsuit, Saunders v. Unemployment Insurance Agency, led to a $55 million settlement, offering financial relief to claimants affected by improper collections. Workers must act by December 20, 2024, to file a claim, opt out, or object to the settlement terms.
An independent claims administrator will oversee the process, determining eligibility for payments from the settlement fund. Workers can find more details or submit claims at bwclassactions.com.
Five Key Points for Claimants
- Information Available: Visit the UIA Claimant Homepage at Michigan.gov/UIA for detailed information about the settlement, deadlines, and court documents.
- Contact the Settlement Administrator: Call 1-866-499-4565 or email info@bwclassactions.com for assistance.
- Check Notifications: Log into your MiWAM account for messages titled “Saunders v. UIA Improper Collections Alert.”
- Resolve Account Issues: For help with MiLOGIN or MiWAM passwords, contact UIA Customer Service at 1-866-500-0017, selecting Option 7 for account access.
- Upcoming Hearing: A final hearing in the Michigan Court of Claims is scheduled for March 20, 2025, to determine next steps.
Pandemic-Era System Overload at the Heart of the Lawsuit
During the pandemic, the surge in unemployment claims overwhelmed the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency’s (UIA) MiWAM system. Many claimants were asked to repay benefits before the agency could verify the timeliness or legitimacy of their protests and appeals. This led to widespread confusion and financial stress for thousands of Michigan workers.
In response to the lawsuit, the Michigan Court of Claims halted most collections for claims filed on or after March 1, 2020, where workers may have submitted protests or appeals. The court will decide when collections may resume.
UIA’s Modernization Efforts and Reforms
The settlement reflects broader efforts by the UIA to address systemic issues and improve services for Michigan workers. Under Director Julia Dale, the agency is undergoing a transformation to enhance efficiency, transparency, and fraud prevention. Key initiatives include:
- A New MiUI System: Set to replace MiWAM, MiUI will streamline the claims process with a user-friendly interface, improved speed, and enhanced fraud prevention.
- Expanded Tools for Workers: These include the UIA Claimant Roadmap, online coaching sessions, and the Community Connect program, which provides hands-on assistance with unemployment applications.
- Improved Office Services: Renovations in offices across Michigan aim to enhance customer experience and security, while scheduling tools now allow workers to book in-person, phone, or virtual appointments up to 14 days in advance.
Fighting Fraud and Ensuring Accountability
The UIA has intensified its efforts to combat unemployment fraud, partnering with law enforcement agencies to prosecute bad actors. Since 2020, over 160 individuals have been charged with unemployment fraud, leading to significant convictions and restitution. Additionally, new ethics and security measures are in place to prevent internal misconduct.
To improve transparency, the agency launched the UIA Economic Dashboard, offering in-depth data on unemployment trends, claimant demographics, and regional impacts.
Act Now to Secure Relief
For workers impacted by improper pandemic-era unemployment benefit collections, the December 20, 2024, deadline marks a crucial opportunity to seek compensation or resolve concerns. Claimants are encouraged to review their options carefully and take advantage of the resources provided by the UIA.
For questions or assistance, workers can schedule a meeting at Michigan.gov/UIA, use the agency’s chatbot, Ava, or call Customer Service at 1-866-500-0017.
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