Can I get more than 26 weeks of unemployment benefits from NYS Department of Labor?

Unfortunately, New York only provides the standard 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits. There used to be federal extended benefit programs during high unemployment periods, but those aren't currently active. The only exception would be if there's a federal emergency extension program enacted, which isn't the case right now. You might want to look into other assistance programs through DSS or consider filing for standby status if you have any part-time work opportunities.

same boat here, hit my 26 weeks last month and that was it. no more benefits. the system just cuts you off even if you've been doing everything right with job searches and weekly claims

The 26 week limit is federal law, not just a NYS Department of Labor rule. During the pandemic there were temporary extensions like PEUC that added extra weeks, but Congress hasn't renewed those programs. Your best bet now is to maximize your remaining weeks by making sure you're filing your weekly claims correctly and meeting all job search requirements. Also check if you qualify for SNAP benefits or other assistance programs to bridge the gap.

I was in a similar situation last year and had trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to ask about options. Spent weeks calling and either getting busy signals or hung up on. Finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. The agent confirmed there are no extensions available but helped me understand other benefit programs I could apply for. Worth checking out if you need to speak with someone directly.

wait I thought there were extended benefits when unemployment rates are high? isn't that automatic or something