How many weeks unemployment benefits can I get from NYS Department of Labor?
I just started collecting unemployment and I'm trying to figure out how many weeks of benefits I can get total. My friend said it's 26 weeks but I've seen different numbers online. Does it depend on how much I worked before or is it the same for everyone? Also does the amount I get each week affect how many weeks I can collect? Really confused about this whole system.
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Luca Bianchi
In New York, you can get up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits in most cases. This is standard regardless of your weekly benefit amount. The total weeks available depends on your work history and earnings during your base period, but 26 weeks is the maximum for regular UI benefits.
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Zara Shah
•Thank you! So even if I get a higher weekly amount, I still get the same 26 weeks maximum?
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GalacticGuardian
Actually it can be less than 26 weeks depending on your work history. NYS Department of Labor calculates your benefit duration based on your earnings in the base period. If you didn't work enough quarters or earn enough, you might only qualify for fewer weeks. Check your determination letter for your specific number.
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Zara Shah
•I haven't gotten my determination letter yet. How long does that usually take?
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Nia Harris
26 weeks is correct for most people but there used to be extended benefits during covid times. those are gone now though so dont expect more than 26
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Mateo Gonzalez
If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to ask about your specific benefit duration, I had luck using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get connected to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling and getting hung up on.
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Aisha Ali
•How much does that cost? Seems like we shouldn't have to pay extra just to talk to someone at our own state agency.
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Mateo Gonzalez
•I hear you on that frustration, but honestly the time I saved was worth it. The regular phone lines are just impossible to get through on.
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Ethan Moore
Same boat here - filed 2 weeks ago and still waiting to hear back about anything. This whole system is such a mess, no wonder people can't get straight answers about something as basic as how long benefits last.
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