Just went through this process myself after getting laid off from a similar salary range. One thing to keep in mind is that the $504 maximum is based on the state-wide average, but it really doesn't account for regional cost differences. Since you mentioned rent being a concern, you might want to look into other assistance programs too - like SNAP benefits or utility assistance programs that you can apply for while on unemployment. Also, if you have any side income or freelance work, make sure to report it properly when you file your weekly claims. NYS is pretty strict about that and you don't want any issues down the line.

One thing I'd add to the great advice already shared here - make sure you understand the base period calculation. NYS uses the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you get laid off next month and file in say February, they'll look at your earnings from roughly April 2023 through March 2024. If you've had any salary increases in the past year, that might affect which quarters give you the highest earnings for the calculation. Also, while $504 is the current max, keep an eye out for any updates to the benefit amounts - they do adjust periodically based on state wage data.

Based on your work history, you should definitely qualify for a new unemployment claim! Working from September 2024 to April 2025 gives you wages in multiple quarters (Q3 and Q4 of 2024, plus Q1 of 2025), which easily meets NY's requirements. I was in a similar situation - had an old claim from 2022, then worked for about 8 months before getting laid off again in early 2024. I was nervous about reapplying but it turned out to be straightforward. The system automatically calculates which base period gives you the best benefit rate, so you don't have to worry about that part. When you file, use your existing NY.gov account and select "File a New Claim" rather than trying to reopen your old one. Have your employment dates and employer info ready, but don't stress too much about the wage amounts since they pull that data from employer reports anyway. The hardest part honestly is just getting past the anxiety of navigating their website - once you actually start the application it's pretty step-by-step. Good luck!

Hey Rami! I was in almost the exact same boat last year - got laid off in late 2023, collected benefits, then worked a contract job from August 2024 until February 2025 when it ended. I was super worried about whether I'd qualify again but it turned out to be no problem at all! Your work from September 2024 to April 2025 definitely qualifies you for a new claim. Since you worked across multiple quarters (Q3 2024, Q4 2024, and Q1 2025), you easily meet the requirements. The system will automatically use whichever base period gives you the higher benefit amount. When I filed my new claim, I used my existing NY.gov login and selected "File a New Claim" - don't try to reopen your old one from 2023. The application asked for all my employment info from the past 18 months, so have your temp job details ready (start date, end date, employer info, reason for separation). One thing that surprised me was how much faster the process was the second time around - I think because all my basic info was already in the system. Got approved within about 10 days and payments started right after that. Don't stress too much about the wage calculations or whether you'll qualify - your work history clearly meets the requirements. The hardest part is just getting through their confusing website interface! You've got this.

The whole system is ridiculous if you ask me. 26 weeks isn't enough time to find a decent job in this economy, especially if you're trying to find something that actually pays a living wage instead of just taking the first minimum wage job that comes along!

Just wanted to add that if you exhaust your regular 26 weeks of unemployment benefits, you might be eligible for extended benefits during times of high unemployment, though this depends on economic conditions and federal programs that may be available. Also, make sure you're familiar with the online system at labor.ny.gov - it's much easier than trying to call. You can check your payment history, weekly claim status, and get most of your questions answered through their online portal. Good luck with your job search!

Just wanted to add that you should definitely file for unemployment benefits as soon as possible after your termination. NYS Department of Labor has a waiting period anyway, so there's no advantage to delaying. The key is maintaining your job search documentation since that's required for both your visa status and your weekly claim certifications.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago when my company had layoffs. The most important thing to understand is that the 60-day grace period and unemployment benefits are completely separate matters. I filed for NYS Department of Labor benefits immediately after my termination and it had zero impact on my H1B status. In fact, the unemployment benefits were crucial for covering my rent and expenses while I was job hunting. Just make sure you keep detailed records of your job search activities - both for the weekly unemployment certifications and to show you're actively seeking new employment within your grace period. I found a new position on day 52, so cutting it close but it worked out. Don't let fear of immigration issues prevent you from getting the financial support you're entitled to.

I've been on unemployment for about 6 months and holidays definitely affect timing. From my experience, if there's a federal holiday during the week, payments usually get delayed by one business day. So if you normally get paid on Tuesday, it would come Wednesday instead. The important thing is that you certified on time (which you did on Sunday), so your payment is in the queue - it's just the bank processing that gets delayed. I'd suggest setting up text alerts if you haven't already, and maybe keep a small buffer for rent timing in the future since holiday delays are pretty predictable. Your money will come through, just maybe a day or two later than usual.

I've been through this exact situation multiple times and I completely understand the stress! From my experience with NYS unemployment, holiday delays are pretty common but predictable. Since you certified on Sunday as usual, your claim is processed - it's just the payment release that might be delayed. I usually see delays of 1-2 business days during holiday weeks, with direct deposit typically being faster than the debit card option. The frustrating part is that NYS DOL doesn't always communicate these delays clearly upfront. For future reference, I've learned to expect delays around major holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas/New Year's. Try checking your account Wednesday morning if you don't see it Tuesday - that's when mine usually shows up during holiday weeks. Hang in there!