Like most states, Michigan requires individuals who receive unemployment benefits to recertify their eligibility every few weeks. In an attempt to streamline this process and free up staff for other responsibilities, the state uses a system called MARVIN – Michigan's Automated Response Voice Interactive Network. Using your phone’s keypad, you can dial in to MARVIN and submit the required information in a few minutes, ensuring that you continue to receive your benefits.

Making Your First MARVIN Call

When you file for unemployment benefits in Michigan, you receive a booklet that contains information and instructions for making your biweekly claims. To make your first MARVIN unemployment call, you first call in and select a four-digit PIN number that you use for the duration of your claim. You need this number every time you call MARVIN, so don’t lose it. After you establish your PIN, follow the voice prompts to complete your claim or get the information you need. Using the system, you can find out basic information about your payments, including the date and amount of your last payment.

Biweekly Unemployment Certification

To continue receiving benefits, you may need to certify that you are still unemployed and that you have been looking for work every other week. To do so, call MARVIN on the dates you are given when you first file for unemployment. You need to know the week-ending dates for the weeks you’re claiming. All weeks use Saturday as the week-ending day. Follow the instructions provided by the system and wait for MARVIN to say “Goodbye” before you hang up. Hanging up too early could result in your claim not being processed. Also, background noise – including people talking and the television – can prevent your claim from being processed correctly, so call from a quiet place with a strong signal.

Troubleshooting Marvin Unemployment Calls

If you have trouble using MARVIN or the system cannot answer your questions automatically, you are transferred to an operator who can provide assistance. In some circumstances, you may not be able to use the MARVIN toll-free number. If you have a rotary phone or a disability that prevents you from using the system, call the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency at 1-800-500-0017 for assistance. You also need to contact UIA at that number if you are self-employed and want to submit a profit and loss statement as part of your claim, if you are claiming a flexible week, or if you are in a UIA-approved training program. If the service isn't working when you call MARVIN, reach out to UIA for assistance.