NYS Department of Labor unemployment extension - is there an extension for unemployment benefits in 2025?

The federal extensions like PEUC ended back in 2021. Right now in 2025, you can get up to 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits in New York. After that, there's no automatic extension unless your state triggers Extended Benefits (EB) due to high unemployment rates, which isn't happening right now. You might want to look into other programs like SNAP or contact your local workforce development office for job placement assistance.

Check if you qualify for a new benefit year. If you worked enough during your current claim period, you might be able to file a new claim when your benefit year expires. The NYS Department of Labor will automatically review your account, but you can also call to ask about your options. Just be prepared for long wait times when calling.

I had such a hard time getting through to NYS Department of Labor when I needed to check on my extension options. Spent hours on hold and kept getting disconnected. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me through to a real person. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me so much frustration trying to get answers about my benefit year ending.

ugh the whole system is such a mess!! why cant they just automatically extend benefits when people are still looking for work?? makes no sense to cut people off when jobs are still hard to find

Just to clarify for everyone - Extended Benefits (EB) can trigger in New York if the unemployment rate gets high enough, but that's based on economic conditions, not individual circumstances. The trigger is when the state's unemployment rate reaches certain thresholds compared to previous years. Right now in 2025, New York's rate isn't high enough to activate EB.

@PaulineW I'm in a similar situation - just hit week 22 myself and starting to panic about what comes next. Have you looked into any job training programs while you're still receiving benefits? Sometimes the state has workforce development programs that might provide additional support or even extend your eligibility if you're enrolled in approved training. Also, definitely keep detailed records of all your job search activities - applications, interviews, networking events, etc. If you do end up needing to apply for other assistance programs later, having that documentation can be really helpful. Hang in there, the job market is still tough but don't give up!

@PaulineW I went through this exact same situation last year and it's definitely scary when you're approaching that 26-week limit. One thing that helped me was contacting my local One-Stop Career Center (part of the workforce development system) - they have counselors who can review your entire situation and let you know about any programs you might qualify for. Some people don't realize that if you've worked even part-time during your benefit year, you might have earned enough wages to establish a new claim when your current one expires. Also, while you're still receiving benefits, take advantage of any free career services, resume workshops, or job fairs they offer. The waiting lists for some assistance programs can be long, so it's better to get on them now rather than waiting until your benefits actually run out. Keep your head up - I know it feels hopeless but there are people and resources out there to help bridge the gap.

@PaulineW I understand your anxiety about this - I'm currently at week 18 myself and already losing sleep over what happens next. One thing I learned from calling the DOL (after many attempts) is that they automatically send you a notice about 4 weeks before your benefit year ends explaining your options. If you haven't gotten that yet, it should be coming soon. Also, even if you don't qualify for a new regular UI claim, there might be state-specific programs for emergency assistance or temporary aid while you continue job searching. I've been keeping a spreadsheet of every single application I've submitted with dates, company names, and follow-up actions - it helps me feel like I'm being productive even when the rejections pile up. We're all in this together and I really hope something breaks for both of us soon!