Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Hi friend. Looking for work can feel like a lot, especially when other things are hard too. I'm really glad you picked this up. Michigan has help for finding a job, getting training and filing for unemployment.
Here is the easy first step: call Michigan Works! at 800.285.9675 to find a service center near you. We'll walk through the rest together.
A few things to know
- You choose. Use what feels right for you and skip anything that doesn't.
- Each program decides who it can serve. We can't promise a job or a spot in any training.
- Be careful with job offers that ask you to pay money up front.
Michigan Works! is a network of service centers across the state that help people find jobs and training. You can get help with job searches, resumes, training and connecting with employers.
To find the center near you, call 800.285.9675.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.michiganworks.org/
How to start, step by step
- Call Michigan Works! or visit its website to find your nearest center.
- Go in, or call, and say you're looking for work or training.
- Ask about help with resumes, interviews and job leads.
- Ask about training programs, and if any help pays for them.
- Write down your next appointment and who you talked to.
What to say when you call
"Hi. I'm looking for work in (town or county)."
"I've done (type of work) before, and I'm open to (kinds of jobs)."
"Do you have training programs I could join?"
"Can I make an appointment to meet with someone?"
Bring your story
Write down your past jobs, even short ones. Life experience counts, my friend.
How do I file for unemployment?
If you lost your job through no fault of your own, you may be able to get unemployment benefits from Michigan's Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA). You file and manage your claim online through a MiWAM account.
To reach the UIA by phone, call 866.500.0017. The UIA suggests avoiding Mondays and Tuesdays when you can.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.michigan.gov/leo/bureaus-agencies/uia
Can I get cash help while I look?
The Family Independence Program (FIP) gives temporary cash help to pregnant women and low income families with children under 18. MDHHS says most people who apply take part in PATH, a work program with a 21 day assessment.
As of April 1, 2025, MDHHS says FIP has a 60 month time limit. Apply on MI Bridges, on paper or at your MDHHS county office.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/assistance-programs/cash/fip
Things to have for a job search
What if I have a record?
Having a record can make things harder, but it doesn't mean you can't find work. Michigan Works! centers can help you find employers who hire people with records.
Michigan Legal Help has information about clearing criminal records.
Source (As of October 22, 2026): https://michiganlegalhelp.org/
Say you were laid off from a warehouse job in Grand Rapids
You could file for unemployment through MiWAM, then visit a Michigan Works! center for job leads and training. If money is tight, you'd apply for Food Assistance on MI Bridges too. One step at a time.
Questions people ask a lot
Can I get help if I don't have a computer?
Yes. Michigan Works! centers and libraries have computers you can use.
Can I get training if I'm already working?
Ask Michigan Works! Some programs help people move to a better job.
What if I don't have an address?
You can still get help. Ask where you can get mail.
What if I'm a veteran?
Tell Michigan Works! Veterans may get extra help. See guide 9 too.
Every step counts
Looking for work takes courage. Keep going, my friend. You've got this!
How do I make the most of each call?
Calling for help can feel like a lot. A little planning makes each call easier, and you'll get further, faster.
- Call early in the day if you can. It leaves time to follow up the same day.
- Have a pen, paper and your papers close by before you call.
- Say what you need in one or two sentences first. Then answer their questions.
- Ask, "Is there anything else I should apply for?" One call can open more doors.
- Before you hang up, ask who you talked to and what happens next.
- Write it all down in your call log at the back of this guide.
If you get put on hold or cut off
"Hi, I was just talking with someone about (what you need), and we got cut off."
"Can you help me pick up where we left off?"
"Is there a direct number I can use if this happens again?"
Keep going, friend
If one place can't help, ask them who can. Each call gets you closer.
What if I'm told no, or put on a waitlist?
A no from one place isn't a no from everyone. Programs have different rules, funds and space, and things change from week to week.
- Ask why. Knowing the reason helps you know what to try next.
- Ask, "Who else could help with this?" Write down every name and number they share.
- If you're on a waitlist, ask how long it usually takes and how you'll hear from them. Ask how often you should check in.
- Keep your phone number and address up to date with every program, so you don't miss a call or letter.
- If a state agency denies you, the letter should tell you how to ask for a hearing and the deadline. Read it right away, and call legal aid if you need help.
- Dial 211 any time to look for other options near you.
Keep your papers safe
You're doing great
Asking for help, and asking again, takes strength. I'm cheering you on every step of the way.
Here is help that works across Michigan, then job help in the biggest counties, then an MDHHS office list for other counties. Call ahead for hours.
Michigan
Here are some places to start.
Michigan Works!
What it offers No cost job search help, training and career services at offices across the state.
How to reach Find an office by ZIP code at https://www.michiganworks.org/ or call 800.285.9675.
Source https://www.michiganworks.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Family Independence Program (cash help)
What it offers Michigan's cash assistance program for families with children. Apply through MI Bridges.
How to reach Details at https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/assistance-programs/cash/fip Apply at https://newmibridges.michigan.gov/
Source https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/assistance-programs/cash/fip
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS county offices and customer service
What it offers The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) runs Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief, Medicaid and child care help through an office in every county. You can apply online at MI Bridges or at any county office.
How to reach Call MDHHS at 844.464.3447, or use the county directory to find your office.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Wayne County (Detroit)
Here are some places to start.
Detroit at Work
What it offers No cost career centers where you can meet a career adviser, plus job fairs and events. A Michigan Works! agency.
How to reach Career center hours: Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm. Find a center at https://detroitatwork.com/
Source https://detroitatwork.com/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Goodwill of Greater Detroit
What it offers No cost education, training and support for people facing barriers to work, including career training in welding, construction and customer service.
How to reach Learn more at https://www.goodwilldetroit.org/
Source https://www.goodwilldetroit.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Oakland County (Pontiac and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Michigan Works!
What it offers No cost job search help, training and career services at offices across the state.
How to reach Find an office by ZIP code at https://www.michiganworks.org/ or call 800.285.9675.
Source https://www.michiganworks.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Macomb County (Clinton Township and nearby)
Here are some places to start.
Michigan Works!
What it offers No cost job search help, training and career services at offices across the state.
How to reach Find an office by ZIP code at https://www.michiganworks.org/ or call 800.285.9675.
Source https://www.michiganworks.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Kent County (Grand Rapids)
Here are some places to start.
West Michigan Works!
What it offers No cost help to find a job, build career skills and get training.
How to reach Learn more at https://www.westmiworks.org/
Source https://www.westmiworks.org/
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Other counties (call your MDHHS county office)
Here are some places to start.
MDHHS Bay County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Bay County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 1399 W. Center Rd., Essexville. Call 989.895.2100. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Berrien County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Berrien County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 401 Eighth St., Benton Harbor. Call 269.934.2000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Calhoun County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Calhoun County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 190 E. Michigan Ave., Battle Creek. Call 269.966.1284. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Chippewa County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Chippewa County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 463 East 3 Mile Rd., Sault Ste. Marie. Call 906.635.4100. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Genesee County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Genesee County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 125 E. Union St., 7th Floor, Flint. Call 810.760.2202. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Grand Traverse County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Grand Traverse County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 701 S. Elmwood, Ste. 19, Traverse City. Call 231.941.3900. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Ingham County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Ingham County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 5303 S. Cedar St., Lansing. Call 844.464.3447. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Jackson County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Jackson County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 301 E. Louis Glick Hwy., Jackson. Call 517.780.7400. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Kalamazoo County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Kalamazoo County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 427 E. Alcott St., Kalamazoo. Call 269.337.4900. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Livingston County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Livingston County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 2300 E. Grand River, Ste. 1, Howell. Call 517.548.0200. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Marquette County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Marquette County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 234 W. Baraga Ave., Marquette. Call 906.228.9691. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Monroe County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Monroe County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 903 S. Telegraph, Ste. A, Monroe. Call 734.243.7200. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Muskegon County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Muskegon County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 2700 Baker St., Muskegon Heights. Call 231.733.3700. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Ottawa County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Ottawa County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 12185 James St., Ste. 200, Holland. Call 616.394.7200. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Saginaw County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Saginaw County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 411 E. Genesee, Saginaw. Call 989.758.1100. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS St. Clair County office
What it offers The state benefits office for St. Clair County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 1430 Military St., Suite 4, Port Huron. Call 810.966.2000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
MDHHS Washtenaw County office
What it offers The state benefits office for Washtenaw County. Ask here about Food Assistance (SNAP), cash help, State Emergency Relief for rent, deposits or a shutoff, and Medicaid.
How to reach 22 Center St., Ypsilanti. Call 734.481.2000. Call ahead for hours.
Source https://mdhhs.michigan.gov/CompositeDirPub/CountyCompositeDirectory.aspx
Last checked October 22, 2026
Other local groups may also help.
Things to have for a job search
My job plan
Fill this in with a pen, or snap a photo and keep it on your phone. You've got this!
My next steps
Calls I made today
My call log
Write down every call. It helps you keep track, follow up and remember what people told you.
Call 1
Call 2
Call 3
Key numbers to keep
You're doing the right thing
Asking for help is a strong thing to do, my friend. You don't need to have it all figured out before you call. Take it one step at a time, and call again tomorrow if you need to.
About this guide
Made by the Bunklow team. No sign up, no paywall, no cost. Please share it with anyone who could use it. Bunklow does not run these programs and cannot speak for them. We list what each place says it offers and how to reach it, and you decide what to use. This is not a full list of every place that can help. Every source was checked on October 22, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it. We are always happy to hear from you!
Please note. This guide shares general information only. It is not legal, financial, tax or professional advice. Laws vary by state and city. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed professional.
Affordable living. Simplified
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