It is our hope that our most frequently asked questions will be answered in the following pages, but if you have additional questions about any of our programs or services, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
What programs do I qualify for?
We offer a variety of programs and services for employers and jobseekers. They often change and have differing eligibility criteria. The best way to find out what we have for you is telling us what your goals are and a staff person can tell you how to get you there. You can submit a request for training on our website.
What training programs do you currently offer?
Michigan Works! training programs vary depending on funding and employer demand. Visit our website often, sign up for our mailing list, and follow our social networking sites to see updates on new trainings and other services.
I have filled out a lot of applications, but haven’t heard from anyone. When do you call me?
We try our best to send you local job openings that match your skills, education, and experience. If you have been applying for positions and have not been called for an interview, we encourage you to contact a Michigan Works! staff person who can help you troubleshoot. You may need to make some adjustments on your resume, or even go back to school.
What is the KeyTrain Assessment and/or WorkKeys Test?
The KeyTrain Assessment is a measurement of an individual’s work-readiness skills, including math, reading and locating information. This is a pre-test for WorkKeys, which measures the same skills and must be passed before individuals are allowed to enroll in a training program. Passing scores of WorkKeys will receive a gold (highest), silver or bronze National Career Readiness Certificate.
What is the TABE test?
The Test for Adult Basic Education (TABE) measures an individual’s grade level (1-12+) in math and reading. Some training applicants will be required to take the TABE before beginning a training program.
Can I re-take the TABE or KeyTrain tests to get a better score?
In regards to the TABE test, three to six months of remediation must take place before individuals will be allowed to retest. In the case of the KeyTrain Assessment, the program allows participants to take each section twice; however, after the second time, remediation work must be completed before being allowed to test again.
Do I have to put my social security number in the computer?
Michigan Works! does not require you to provide your social security number in order to access our services. However, if you are applying for unemployment insurance, the State requires that you submit your social security number.
Unemployment-related questions
Can you help me with my unemployment benefits questions?
Because we are not the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA), Michigan Works! is not authorized to answer any of your unemployment questions for liability reasons. We do, however, have a few of the basic unemployment forms and fact sheets available at the front desk that might assist you with some of your basic questions. You may also use our phones and computers to file your claim or to call the UIA with your questions.
How does the unemployment office know I was here?
After you register on the computer, fill out two additional forms (we provide) and put your resume on the MTB, you will present a printed resume and the forms to the front desk. The papers will be signed and date-stamped, and you will receive a form back to keep for your records that proves you have registered with us. At the end of the day, we input your data into a government database, which records that you have visited our location.
Why haven’t I received any unemployment money yet?
Only the UIA can answer this question; however, if you haven’t been to Michigan Works! yet to register, that may be one reason.
I didn’t receive my unemployment book yet, how am I supposed to study it before I call MARVIN?
Only the UIA can answer this question, and if it has been some time since you’ve filed your claim, we encourage you to call them to find out. In the meantime, the UIA website (www.michigan.gov/uia) contains a lot of information on how to file claims and what to do when you call MARVIN.
Do I still get my unemployment benefits if I enter a college, school or specialized training program?
This depends on the type of training you are doing as determined by the UIA. Please contact the UIA to find out about your specific situation.