DETROIT- Michelle Beebe, Senior Deputy Director, Unemployment Insurance Agency, issued a reminder today to federal employees impacted by the partial government shutdown that UIA offices are open extended hours to serve them as well as the general public.

"Laid off federal employees are facing trying times during the partial government shutdown," Beebe said. "We have continued our extended hours and hope that any federal employee will either go online or stop by one of our offices to determine if they are eligible for unemployment benefits."

As of January 5, about 400 federal employees have filed a claim for unemployment benefits.

Any individual can file an initial claim online 24/7 or by visiting one of our 13 local offices across the state or calling into the Claims Center at 1-866-500-0017.

UIA has a frequently asked questions about the partial federal government shutdown available on their website. Any federal employee impacted by the shutdown is encouraged to apply for benefits and report the details of their situation. Federal regulations currently state that if you are working, even though you are not being paid, you will not qualify for unemployment benefits.

"The partial federal government shutdown puts a strain on families across Michigan. Please know that we at UI are available to help with questions about unemployment benefits," Beebe added.

Unemployment Insurance Customer Service Locations Hours of Operation

Local offices in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Saginaw

Monday-Tuesday: 7 AM to 6 PM

Wednesday: 7 AM to 5 PM

Thursday-Friday: 8 AM to 5 PM

All other local offices - Benton Harbor, Gaylord, Hancock, Kalamazoo, Marquette, Mt. Clemens Muskegon, Sault Ste. Marie, Traverse City

Monday-Friday: 8 AM to 5 PM

Toll-free customer service line 1-866-500-0017

Monday-Wednesday: 7 AM to 6 PM

Thursday-Friday: 7 AM to 5 PM