Can I get unemployment if my job closes permanently - NYS Department of Labor eligibility?

Yes, you absolutely can get unemployment benefits when your job closes! This is considered a layoff due to lack of work, which is one of the qualifying reasons for UI benefits. You should be eligible as long as you meet the basic requirements - having worked enough quarters and earned enough wages. Start your claim as soon as possible after your last day of work through the NYS Department of Labor website.

When you file your claim, make sure to put 'business closure' or 'lack of work' as your reason for separation. The NYS Department of Labor will verify this with your employer, but business closures are pretty straightforward. You'll need your employer's information and your work history for the past 18 months. Also keep any documentation about the closure your boss gives you.

i went through this same thing last year when my retail store closed. it was actually pretty easy to get approved since there was no question about why i lost my job. just file online and be honest about everything

I had a nightmare time getting through to NYS Department of Labor when I needed to talk to someone about my claim status. Spent hours trying to call and either got busy signals or hung up on. Someone here recommended this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you actually get through to unemployment agents on the phone. They have this demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me so much frustration when I needed to resolve an issue with my weekly claims.

One thing - make sure you understand the job search requirements once you start getting benefits. You'll need to keep a log of your job search activities and apply for jobs each week. The requirements are different now than they were during COVID so don't assume anything.