How many weeks can I get unemployment benefits from NYS Department of Labor?
I just started my first unemployment claim and I'm trying to figure out how long I can collect benefits. I worked full time for about 18 months at my last job before getting laid off. Does anyone know the maximum number of weeks NYS Department of Labor allows for regular unemployment? I keep seeing different numbers online and want to make sure I understand what to expect.
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Emma Davis
The maximum is 26 weeks for regular unemployment insurance in New York. Your actual benefit duration depends on your work history and wages during your base period. If you worked 18 months full-time, you should qualify for the full 26 weeks assuming you meet the wage requirements.
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Javier Hernandez
•Thank you! That's really helpful. Do you know if there are any extensions available beyond the 26 weeks?
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LunarLegend
wait i thought it was longer than that?? i collected for like 30+ weeks during covid but maybe that was different
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Emma Davis
•Yes, during COVID there were federal extensions like PEUC that added extra weeks, but those programs ended. Regular state unemployment is capped at 26 weeks now.
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Malik Jackson
The 26 weeks is correct for regular UI. However, your actual duration could be less if you don't have enough wage credits in your base period. NYS Department of Labor calculates this based on your earnings in the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters before you filed. Make sure you're filing your weekly claims on time to avoid losing any weeks.
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Javier Hernandez
•Good point about the weekly claims. I've been doing those every week. How do I check how many weeks I have left on my claim?
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Malik Jackson
•Log into your my.ny.gov account and check your payment history. It should show your benefit year end date and remaining balance. If you can't access it online, you might need to call NYS Department of Labor, though that can be challenging with their phone volume.
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Isabella Oliveira
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Ravi Patel
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Isabella Oliveira
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Freya Andersen
Just make sure you keep up with the job search requirements too! You need to document your job search activities or they can cut off your benefits even if you have weeks left.
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GalacticGladiator
Based on what others have shared, 26 weeks seems to be the standard maximum for NY state unemployment. I'm curious though - has anyone here had experience with the job search requirements that Freya mentioned? I want to make sure I'm documenting everything correctly from the start so I don't run into issues later. What exactly do they require you to track?
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