Senators, Representatives and Staff,

We wanted to provide you with this update on an additional action UIA has taken today relative to attempts by criminals to file imposter claims and commit fraud against unemployment claims.

To accelerate the process of verifying ID documents for claimants, UIA has created a new ID verification tool in MiWAM. The email below was sent out today to all claimants impacted by the potential imposter claim situation.

Email to claimants impacted by potential imposter claims

You recently received a notice from us about attempts by criminals to file imposter claims and commit large-scale fraud against state unemployment programs across the country. Your claim was identified as requiring additional identity verification steps to protect against unemployment identity theft. This is indicated by the “stop payment” indicator on your account.

To help expedite the process of verifying your ID documents, UIA has created a new ID verification tool in MiWAM. If you have already submitted your documents by sending a message and uploading attachments, please re-submit using the new method for faster processing.

How to verify your identity using the new tool:

1. Log into your MiWAM Account at michigan.gov/uia.
2. Under “Alerts” on your dashboard click the “VERIFY YOUR IDENTITY HERE” link.
3. Enter the Letter ID, found on Form UIA 6347, Request for Identity Verification.
4. Upload ID verification documents.
5. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation of submission.
6. You will receive a notice once your identification has been verified.

If you no longer have Form UIA 6347, you will need to follow the steps previously emailed to you to send us a message. Click on the “Send Unemployment a Message” link under the “I Want To” tab. There you can send a message and attach a copy of your identity verification documents.

The UIA currently has more than 350 agency employees dedicated to quickly authenticate legitimate accounts, with additional staff being added next week, bringing the total number of customer facing staff to more than 2,000. These staff are working around the clock to process claims and pay benefits.

If any further information is needed, UIA will contact you by phone from our customer service line, 866-500-0017. There is no need to contact UIA.

Accepted ID Verification Documents are listed below. For a complete list of other acceptable documents, go to Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, at www.uscis.gov/i-9.

• US Passport or US Passport Card,
• Permanent Resident Card or Alien Registration Receipt Card,

       OR

• Driver’s license or ID card

      AND

• Social Security Card, or
• Original or certified copy of birth certificate

Thank you for your patience as we work to protect the integrity of the unemployment insurance system, while making sure you get the benefits you deserve.