How long can someone claim unemployment benefits through NYS Department of Labor?
I'm trying to figure out the maximum duration for unemployment benefits in NY. My friend told me it's 26 weeks but I've heard different numbers from other people. Does anyone know the exact limit? Also, if you exhaust your regular benefits, are there any extensions available? I want to plan ahead since I might be losing my job next month due to company layoffs.
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Harper Collins
Regular unemployment insurance (UI) benefits in New York are up to 26 weeks maximum. This is based on your base period wages and work history. There used to be federal extensions during COVID but those ended in 2021. The 26 weeks is pretty standard across most states now.
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Donna Cline
•Thanks! So after 26 weeks there's nothing else available? That seems pretty short if someone can't find work.
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Kelsey Hawkins
The 26 weeks is correct for regular benefits, but the actual amount you get each week depends on your previous earnings. NYS Department of Labor calculates your weekly benefit rate based on your highest quarter of earnings in your base period. You can check the current maximum weekly benefit amount on their website.
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Donna Cline
•Good to know about the calculation. Do you know what the current maximum weekly amount is?
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Kelsey Hawkins
•I think it's around $504 per week maximum but that changes annually. Best to check the NYS Department of Labor site for current rates.
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Dylan Fisher
wait i thought it was only 20 weeks? my cousin got cut off after 20 weeks last year
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Harper Collins
•Your cousin might not have qualified for the full 26 weeks. The duration depends on how much you worked and earned during your base period. Some people get less than the maximum.
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Edwards Hugo
If you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor to get specific info about your potential claim, I had luck using a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Really saved me hours of busy signals when I needed to ask about my benefit calculation.
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Donna Cline
•Interesting, I'll check that out if I need to file. The phone system sounds like a nightmare from what I've heard.
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Gianna Scott
The whole system is a joke honestly. 26 weeks goes by fast when you're actually trying to find decent work that pays what you used to make. And don't get me started on the job search requirements - you have to apply to 3 jobs per week and keep detailed records. It's exhausting on top of already being stressed about money.
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Alfredo Lugo
•I hear you on the stress. The job search requirement is real though - make sure you keep good records in case they audit your claim.
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Sydney Torres
just wanted to say good luck with everything! losing a job is never easy but at least you're planning ahead
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