Stores are recognizing the recession with reduced prices.

"It's a big benefit right now because people can take advantage of it right now," said Kmart Hardlines Manager Nick Trier.

Kmart stores kicked off their Smart Assist Program -- a pilot program only in Michigan Kmart stores offering 20 percent off Kmart brands for six months for Michigan's jobless.

"They bring their state issued ID, that card they get on the website, and then also the State of Michigan unemployment confirmation, and then once they have those 3 items they can come in and get their 20 percent discount off the brand items," Trier said.

Because of the 20 percent savings, the Kmart brands are selling out quickly forcing them to bring in additional units to replenish the shelves.

"A lot of phone calls, customers asking about it, use at the registers," Trier said.

Customers like Rose DeSander say the program is perfect for her husband who recently lost his job

"I think it would really help because I love Kmart and I'm always here, I think it's a great idea," DeSander said.

Sears is also giving customers a break with its Buyer Protection Program that just began Monday on major appliances more than $399 like washing machines.

"If you were to get unemployed after 60 days of buying them, we pretty much pay on your sears card 1/12 of the price for 12 months or until you're re-employed," said Sears manger Michael Wendel.

And if you're still unemployed after 12 months the balance on your Sears card is paid off, Wendel say it's a must-have for Michigan workers.

"You never know when a GM plant might go down or one the suppliers for it that have all the full-time positions, most people will be able to buy in confidence and not worry about if they ever lose their job," Wendel said.

The Kmart Smart Assist Program Visit lasts until the end of 2009, for more information visit: http://www.kmart.com/shc/s/dap_10151_10101_DAP_Unemployment+Program?keywordRedirect=smart+assist

The Sears Buyer Protection Program lasts from July 6 - Aug. 1, for more information visit: http://www.sears.com/shc/s/v_10153_12605_Appliances?adCell=WF