What MiLogin is and why you need it
MiLogin is Michigan's single sign-on system that gives you access to state services, including the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) portal. If you file for unemployment in Michigan or need to manage an existing claim, you will use MiLogin to log in — it is the gateway, not a separate unemployment system.
MiLogin works like a master key: one username and password opens multiple Michigan government services. The UIA portal sits behind MiLogin, so you cannot reach your claim status, upload documents, or file weekly certifications without first logging in through MiLogin.
You create a MiLogin account the first time you need to access any Michigan state service. If you already have one from explore for something else in Michigan — a driver's license renewal, a business license, or another benefit — you use that same account to access unemployment.
Key Takeaways
- MiLogin is Michigan's login system for state services; you must create an account before you can access the UIA unemployment portal.
- You will need a valid email address and a way to receive a verification code (by email or text message) to set up your account.
- If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the MiLogin login page — do not call the UIA directly for password help.
- Two-factor authentication (a code sent to your phone or email) is required every time you log in, so keep your contact information current.
- If you cannot log in after following the steps, contact the MiLogin Help Desk, not the UIA — they handle account and login issues.
Creating a new MiLogin account
Go to milogin.michigan.gov and select "Create Account" or "Sign Up." You will see a form asking for your email address, a password you create, and your name. Enter the information exactly as it appears on your government ID — mismatches can cause problems later when you try to file a claim.
After you submit the form, Michigan will send a verification code to your email. Open that email, copy the code, and paste it into the verification field on the MiLogin page. This step confirms that you own the email address and can receive messages there.
Once verified, you will be asked to set up a second verification method — usually a phone number where you can receive a text message. This is required. MiLogin will send a code to that number; enter it to complete setup. Write down your phone number and email address somewhere safe — you will need them every time you log in.
After verification is complete, you are logged in. You can now navigate to the UIA portal or other Michigan state services. If you are filing for unemployment for the first time, the UIA portal will guide you through the claim form.
Logging in to MiLogin and accessing the UIA portal
Each time you log in, go to milogin.michigan.gov, enter your email address and password, and select "Sign In." MiLogin will when ready send a verification code to your phone or email (whichever you set up). Enter that code on the next screen.
After you enter the verification code, you will see a list of services you can access. Look for "Unemployment Insurance" or "UIA" and select it. This takes you to the Michigan UIA portal, where you can file a new claim, check the status of an existing one, upload documents, or file your weekly certification.
You will stay logged in for a set period of time (usually several hours), but if you close your browser or step away for too long, you will have to log in again. Each login requires a new verification code.
What to do if you forget your password
On the MiLogin login page, select "Forgot Password." Enter your email address. Michigan will send a password reset link to that email — check your inbox and spam folder.
Click the link in the email. You will be taken to a page where you create a new password. Make it at least 12 characters long and include uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and a special character (like ! or @). Write it down or use a password manager so you do not lose it again.
After you set your new password, go back to milogin.michigan.gov and log in with your email address and the new password. You will be asked for a verification code as usual.
Fixing common login problems
You see "Invalid credentials" or "Username or password incorrect." Double-check that you are using your email address (not your name) as your username. Make sure Caps Lock is off. If you are certain your password is correct, use "Forgot Password" to reset it.
You do not receive the verification code. Check your email inbox and spam folder — codes sometimes land there. If you still do not see it, wait a few minutes and request a new code. If you set up text message verification, make sure your phone number is correct and that you can receive texts. If the problem continues, contact the MiLogin Help Desk (see below).
You see "Account locked" or cannot log in after multiple attempts. MiLogin locks your account temporarily after several wrong password entries to protect it. Wait 15 minutes and try again. If it stays locked, contact the MiLogin Help Desk.
You are logged in to MiLogin but cannot see the UIA portal option. This usually means your account has not been linked to the UIA system yet. File a new claim through the UIA website directly (uia.michigan.gov), and the system will create the link. You may also contact the UIA at 1-866-500-0017 to confirm your account is set up.
Keeping your MiLogin account find
Never share your MiLogin password with anyone, including UIA staff or Michigan government employees. State workers will never ask for your password. If someone claims to be from Michigan and asks for it, that is a scam.
Keep your email address and phone number current in your MiLogin account. If you change your phone number or email, log in and update it when ready — otherwise you will not receive verification codes and will be locked out.
If you think someone else has accessed your account, change your password right away and contact the MiLogin Help Desk. They can review your account activity and help you find it.
Contacting the MiLogin Help Desk
If you cannot log in or have questions about your MiLogin account, contact the MiLogin Help Desk at 1-844-645-6446. They are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Have your email address and phone number ready.
Do not call the UIA for login or password problems — they handle unemployment claims, not MiLogin accounts. The MiLogin Help Desk is the right place for account issues.
You can also visit milogin.michigan.gov/help for a list of frequently asked questions and troubleshooting steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the same MiLogin account for multiple people in my household?
No. Each person must have their own MiLogin account with their own email address. If two people in your household file for unemployment, each one creates a separate account. Sharing an account can delay claims and cause verification problems.
What if I do not have a cell phone to receive text messages?
When you set up MiLogin, you can choose to receive verification codes by email instead of text message. Select "Email" as your verification method during account setup, and codes will be sent to your email address each time you log in.
Do I have to use MiLogin every time I file my weekly certification?
Yes. Every time you log in to the UIA portal to file your weekly certification or check your claim, you must first log in to MiLogin and enter a verification code. This is a security requirement and cannot be skipped.
What if I created a MiLogin account but never finished filing my unemployment claim?
Log back in to MiLogin using your email and password, request a verification code, and navigate to the UIA portal. Your incomplete claim should still be there. You can pick up where you left off and finish filing.
Is MiLogin the same as the UIA website?
No. MiLogin is the login system; the UIA portal is what you access after you log in. MiLogin is the door, and the UIA portal is the room inside. You cannot reach the UIA portal without logging in through MiLogin first.