How long does unemployment insurance last in NY - running out of weeks?

In New York, regular unemployment insurance typically lasts for 26 weeks (6 months). However, the exact duration can vary slightly based on your work history and when you filed your claim. Once you exhaust your regular UI benefits, there usually aren't automatic extensions unless Congress passes special legislation during economic emergencies. You should check your my.ny.gov account to see your exact benefit year end date and remaining balance.

i think its 26 weeks but im not 100% sure. when mine ran out last year there wasnt anything else available, just had to find a job or apply for other assistance

You're correct that standard UI in NY is 26 weeks. After that exhausts, you might want to look into other programs like SNAP or temporary assistance while you continue job searching. Also make sure you're meeting all the job search requirements - NYS Department of Labor requires you to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and keep a log. If you're having trouble reaching them to ask about your remaining weeks, I actually found a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get through to NYS Department of Labor agents on the phone. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Really helped when I needed to speak to someone about my claim status.

Wait, I thought there were extended benefits or something? My cousin in another state got like 40+ weeks total during COVID but that was different I guess. This system is so confusing and they don't explain anything clearly on the website.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS A JOKE! They make it impossible to get through on the phone and the website barely works half the time. 26 weeks isn't enough when companies are being so picky about hiring. I've been looking for 5 months and still nothing decent!

Same boat here... running low on weeks and getting nervous. At least we're not alone in this struggle.

I feel your anxiety - I was in a similar situation a few months ago. The standard 26 weeks in NY goes by fast when the job market is tough. One thing that helped me was reaching out to local workforce development centers - they sometimes have additional resources or training programs that can extend your support while you search. Also, don't forget about partial unemployment benefits if you end up taking temporary or part-time work while still looking. The income requirements are pretty flexible and you might still qualify for some benefits. Hang in there, and definitely check that my.ny.gov account to see your exact remaining balance so you can plan accordingly.