How long do I have to collect unemployment benefits in NY - time limits?

In New York, you can collect regular unemployment benefits for up to 26 weeks (6 months) during a 12-month period. This is the standard duration for most people. Your benefit amount is based on your earnings history, not how long you can collect. You're required to actively search for work starting immediately - there's no grace period. You'll need to file weekly claims and document your job search activities.

yep 26 weeks is right but make sure you file your weekly claims on time or you'll lose those weeks. happened to my cousin

The job search requirement is typically 3 work search activities per week, but it can vary. You'll get specific instructions when you file your first claim with NYS Department of Labor. Keep detailed records of every application, interview, and job fair you attend. They can audit your search activities at any time.

I've been trying to reach someone at NYS Department of Labor for weeks to get clarification on my own claim timeline and it's impossible to get through on the phone. The hold times are insane and half the time they just hang up on you. I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me connected to an agent in like 10 minutes. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI. Might be worth checking out if you need to talk to someone directly about your specific situation.

Just remember the 26 weeks starts from when you first file, not when you got laid off. So don't wait too long to apply! I made that mistake and lost a couple weeks of benefits.

@Mateo Rodriguez Just to add to what others have said - with your $28k income last year, you should qualify for benefits. The weekly benefit amount is roughly half your average weekly wage (up to the state maximum). Since you worked retail for 2 years, you definitely meet the work history requirements. One tip: file your claim online at labor.ny.gov as soon as possible, even if you're still figuring things out. You can always ask questions later, but you don't want to lose any potential benefit weeks by waiting. The system will walk you through the process step by step.

One thing to keep in mind is that if you receive any severance pay from your employer, it might affect when your unemployment benefits start. NYS considers severance as wages, so your benefits could be delayed until after the severance period ends. Also, make sure you have all your employment documents ready when you file - things like your last pay stub, separation notice, and Social Security card. The application process goes much smoother when you have everything organized upfront.

@Mateo Rodriguez Welcome to the unemployment process! As others mentioned, NY's standard duration is 26 weeks. Since you're new to this, here are a few practical tips: 1) File your claim ASAP online at labor.ny.gov - don't wait, 2) Set up direct deposit to avoid delays with benefit payments, 3) Keep a job search log from day one (I use a simple spreadsheet with company names, positions, dates, and contact info), and 4) Save all correspondence from NYS DOL in a folder. The system can seem overwhelming at first, but once you get into the weekly routine of filing your claim and documenting your job search, it becomes manageable. Your retail experience should definitely help you find something new - lots of employers value that customer service background. Good luck!