How much money can I get from NYS Department of Labor unemployment benefits in 2025?
I just lost my job at a warehouse in Buffalo and need to file for unemployment. I was making $22 per hour working about 35 hours a week. Does anyone know how much money I can expect to get from NYS Department of Labor? I've never filed before and I'm trying to figure out if it will be enough to cover my rent and basic expenses while I look for another job. Also wondering how long the benefits last and if there are any special requirements I need to meet.
10 comments
Join the conversation
Malia Ponder
NY unemployment benefits are calculated based on your highest earning quarter from the past 18 months. The maximum weekly benefit amount for 2025 is $504, but most people get between $200-400 depending on their previous wages. At $22/hour for 35 hours, you were earning around $40,000 annually, so you'd probably qualify for somewhere in the $350-450 range per week. Benefits last up to 26 weeks if you remain eligible.
0 coins
Holly Lascelles
•That's actually better than I expected! Do I need to do anything special to maintain eligibility besides filing my weekly claims?
0 coins
Kyle Wallace
You'll need to actively search for work and log your job search activities. NYS Department of Labor requires at least 3 work search contacts per week, and you need to keep detailed records in case they audit your claim. Also make sure you're available and able to work - can't turn down suitable job offers or you risk disqualification.
0 coins
Ryder Ross
•this is so confusing, what counts as a work search contact? does applying online count or do i have to actually talk to someone
0 coins
Kyle Wallace
•Online applications definitely count! You can also include networking contacts, job fairs, interviews, even calling employers directly. Just keep good records of dates, company names, and what type of contact you made.
0 coins
Gianni Serpent
I've been trying to get through to NYS Department of Labor for weeks to ask about my benefit amount calculation and it's impossible! Their phone lines are always busy or they just hang up on you after being on hold forever. It's so frustrating when you need answers about your claim. I actually found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get through to unemployment agents - they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling and redialing.
0 coins
Henry Delgado
•Never heard of that before but anything is better than spending entire days trying to reach someone at NYS Department of Labor. How does it actually work?
0 coins
Gianni Serpent
•Basically they handle the calling and waiting for you, then connect you when an agent is available. Much easier than the endless busy signals and dropped calls.
0 coins
Olivia Kay
Just remember the money is taxable! I made the mistake of not having taxes withheld from my unemployment benefits and owed a bunch at tax time. You can request federal and state taxes be taken out when you file your weekly claims.
0 coins
Holly Lascelles
•Good point, I definitely don't want any surprises come tax season. Thanks for the heads up!
0 coins