Can I file for unemployment after 2 years? NYS Department of Labor eligibility question

Unfortunately, there are strict time limits for filing unemployment claims in New York. You generally need to file within a reasonable time after becoming unemployed, and 2 years would be way past any filing deadline. NYS Department of Labor requires that you file your initial claim promptly after job separation. The base period for calculating benefits also looks at wages earned in specific quarters, and being out of work for 2 years means you likely don't have recent enough work history to qualify.

yeah thats way too long sorry. unemployment is meant for people who just lost their jobs not people who have been out of work for years. you would have needed to file right after you left in 2023

The NYS Department of Labor uses what's called a 'base period' to determine eligibility - this looks at wages from the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you file. After 2 years, you wouldn't have qualifying wages in that timeframe. However, if your health issues qualified as a disability, you might want to look into other programs. Have you considered checking if you're eligible for disability benefits instead? That might be more appropriate for your situation.

I had a friend who tried to file after like 18 months and got nowhere with NYS Department of Labor. The system is pretty rigid about timing. If you're looking for work now though, you might qualify for other assistance programs through social services. Also check if there are any workforce development programs in your area that can help with job training or placement.

When I had issues getting through to NYS Department of Labor about my claim timing questions, I used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you actually reach a live agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Might be worth getting definitive answers about your specific situation since every case can be different, even though 2 years does seem like it would be past any filing window.

Unfortunately the timing issue aside, even if you could file, unemployment requires that you be able and available for work immediately. If you were dealing with health issues that prevented you from working, that could also be a disqualifying factor. NYS Department of Labor is pretty strict about the able and available requirement. Glad to hear you're feeling better now though!

I'm really sorry to hear about your situation. Unfortunately, everyone here is correct about the timing issue - 2 years is definitely well beyond the filing window for unemployment benefits in New York. The system is designed for people who file shortly after job separation. However, since you mentioned your health has improved and you're looking to get back into the workforce, I'd suggest reaching out to your local One-Stop Career Center (part of the American Job Center network). They often have programs specifically for people who've been out of work for extended periods and can help with job training, resume assistance, and connecting you with employers. You might also want to check if you qualify for SNAP benefits or other assistance programs while you're job searching. Don't give up - there are resources available even if unemployment isn't an option at this point.