NYDOL: Can unemployment be extended past 26 weeks in NY? Desperately need advice!
Hey everyone, I've been on unemployment for 26 weeks now and I'm getting worried. My benefits are about to run out but I still haven't found a job. Does anyone know if its possible to extend unemployment benefits in New York State beyond the initial 26 weeks? I'm really stressing out about this and could use some advice on what to do next or if there are any special programs available. Thanks in advance for any help!
23 comments
Join the conversation
Sean Doyle
I was in the same boat a few months ago. Unfortunately, NY doesn't have any automatic extensions right now. But don't lose hope! There are a few things you can try: • Check if you qualify for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) if there's been a declared disaster in your area • Look into job training programs through the Department of Labor - sometimes these come with extended benefits • See if you're eligible for any other assistance programs like SNAP or rental assistance to help bridge the gap • Keep filing your weekly claims even after the 26 weeks just in case any new extensions get approved Hang in there and keep applying for jobs. It's tough out there but something will come through eventually!
0 coins
Zara Rashid
This is really helpful info, thanks for sharing! Do you know how long the DUA lasts if you qualify?
0 coins
Sean Doyle
DUA typically lasts up to 26 weeks after a disaster is declared, but it can vary. Best to check with NYDOL for the most up-to-date info!
0 coins
Luca Romano
The job training idea is smart. I did that and it helped me land a new gig. Plus you learn new skills. Win-win!
0 coins
Nia Jackson
ugh the system is so broken 🤬 26 weeks is nothing in this economy. we need REAL support not this bs
0 coins
NebulaNova
Preach! 👏 The govt needs to step up and actually help people instead of just paying lip service.
0 coins
Mateo Hernandez
ikr? other countries take care of their ppl but here were just left to sink or swim 🤷♂️
0 coins
Aisha Khan
Have you tried calling the unemployment office directly? They might be able to give you more specific info about your case and any possible extensions.
0 coins
Anastasia Fedorov
AuthorI've tried calling so many times but I can never get through. It's so frustrating!
0 coins
Ethan Taylor
Pro tip: call right when they open in the morning. You might have better luck getting through then.
0 coins
Yuki Ito
Or try calling at like 4:55pm lol sometimes they pick up right before closing 😂
0 coins
Carmen Lopez
Hey, I found a method to actually get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE
0 coins
AstroAdventurer
Sounds too good to be true. Does it really work? How long did you have to wait?
0 coins
Carmen Lopez
Yeah, it actually does work! I was skeptical too but I was desperate. I only waited about 10 minutes after they connected me. Way better than spending hours on hold myself.
0 coins
Andre Dupont
$20 just to talk to someone? That's ridiculous, we shouldn't have to pay for basic services 😤
0 coins
Carmen Lopez
I get it, but for me it was worth it to finally get answers. Time is money and all that jazz 🤷♀️
0 coins
Zoe Papanikolaou
I heard theres a new program coming soon for long-term unemployed peeps. Might be worth keeping an eye on the NYDOL website for updates!
0 coins
Jamal Wilson
my cousin works at the unemployment office (dont tell anyone lol) and she said theyre swamped rn. like worse than during covid. so dont take it personally if u cant get thru, theyre doing their best
0 coins
Mei Lin
That actually makes me feel a bit better. Thanks for the insider info! 🙏
0 coins
Liam Fitzgerald
Have you considered gig work to tide you over? Stuff like Uber, DoorDash, etc. It's not ideal but it could help bridge the gap while you're looking for something more permanent.
0 coins
Anastasia Fedorov
AuthorThat's not a bad idea, thanks! I'll look into it. Anything to keep some money coming in at this point.
0 coins
GalacticGuru
Just be careful with gig work and taxes. Make sure you set aside money for quarterly estimated tax payments!
0 coins
Olivia Clark
I'm going through the exact same thing right now - 24 weeks in and getting really anxious about what happens next. One thing I found that might help is checking if you qualify for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) if your job loss was due to foreign trade or outsourcing. It can extend benefits and provide retraining funds. Also, some people don't know about the Work Sharing Program - if you find part-time work, you might still be able to collect partial benefits. Definitely worth looking into! Stay strong, we're all in this together 💪
0 coins