NY unemployment benefits ending after 26 weeks - what's next when benefits run out?

When your regular UI benefits end in NY, you should still receive a formal notice by mail explaining your options. Even though you've reached your 26 weeks, you might qualify for the Extended Benefits program if it's currently activated (depends on state unemployment rates). You should definitely keep your account active and continue checking it weekly for any updates or messages from NYSDOL. They might send you information about training programs or other resources through your online account.

same thing happened 2 me last month. they dont really tell u anything lol. i just stopped certifying cuz there was no point. but yeah check ur mail for something from them maybe.

You should also check if you're eligible for the NY Career Services program. When your UI benefits exhaust, you automatically get enrolled in their system for job placement assistance. They'll connect you with job opportunities matching your skills and experience. Regarding your account - don't close it. Keep it active as you may need to access important tax documents (Form 1099-G) for your unemployment benefits when filing taxes for 2025.

NOBODY ever tells you what to do after benefits end!! I was in this exact situation in January and spent WEEKS trying to figure out if there was anything else I could apply for!! The system is designed to confuse people and make it impossible to get answers. I got absolutely ZERO help from the website and couldn't talk to anyone!!!

when my benefits ended i got a letter about 3 weeks later with some pamphlets about job training and workforce programs... but i already found a job by then lol. good luck!

There are actually several steps you should take when your NY unemployment benefits exhaust: 1. Look for the official NYSDOL notice (usually arrives 1-2 weeks after final payment) 2. Check if the Extended Benefits program is active (as of March 2025, it's not currently available in NY, but this changes based on state unemployment rates) 3. Apply for the NY Career Bridge Program - this requires a separate application and provides both training opportunities and a small weekly stipend 4. Update your work search records in your online account for at least 4 more weeks (this is required if any retroactive extension programs become available) 5. Register with your local NY Career Center - many services continue even after benefits end 6. Apply for SNAP/food assistance if needed, as loss of unemployment benefits qualifies as an income change You definitely want to keep your account active, as there are occasionally retroactive extensions passed, and you'd need an active account to receive those benefits.

i'm panicking about this exact same situation!! my benefits end next week and i have NO IDEA what i'm supposed to do? has anyone successfully gotten an extension beyond the 26 weeks? i have three kids and rent is due and im freaking OUT!!!

hey so random question but did anyone else's final payment take longer to process? mine took like 10 days instead of the usual 2 days for some reason

I wanted to follow up about the Career Services program someone mentioned. It's actually called the Re-Employment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) program. You might receive an invitation to participate, and if you do, it's mandatory. But regardless, you can access free career counseling, resume help, and job search assistance through your local NY Career Center even after your benefits end. These services aren't tied to your unemployment benefits and are available to all NY residents. And to answer your original question - no, you don't need to formally close your claim. The system automatically processes it as exhausted once you reach the maximum benefit amount or weeks.