What's the max weekly unemployment benefit amount in NY for 2025?

The maximum weekly benefit rate for regular unemployment insurance in New York for 2025 is $504 per week. This is calculated as 50% of your average weekly wage during your base period, but it can't exceed that $504 maximum. Since you were making $68k annually, that works out to about $1,307 per week, so 50% would be around $653 - but you'll be capped at the $504 maximum.

wait is that right?? i thought the max was like $450 or something. ive been getting way less than $504 and i made decent money at my last job.

I've been trying to get through to NYS Department of Labor for weeks to ask about my benefit calculation and it's impossible to reach anyone. The phone lines are always busy and the online chat never works. Has anyone found a way to actually talk to someone there? This is so frustrating when you just need basic information about your claim.

The whole unemployment system is such a mess. They make it so hard to get basic information and then wonder why people get frustrated. I remember when I could actually call and talk to someone without waiting hours or using some third party service.

Just wanted to add that if you're on standby status or have partial unemployment, the calculations work differently. The $504 max still applies but you might get a reduced amount based on any work you're doing. Make sure you report any earnings on your weekly claim certification.

For what it's worth, I just went through this process myself after being laid off from a tech company in NYC. Made about $75k annually and am getting the full $504 weekly maximum. One thing to keep in mind is that while $504 might sound decent, it only lasts for 26 weeks in New York (unless there are extended benefits due to high unemployment). Also, don't forget that unemployment benefits are taxable income - you can choose to have taxes withheld or pay them later when you file. The application process through the NY.gov website was pretty straightforward once I got all my documents together.

I'm going through a similar situation right now - just filed my unemployment claim after being laid off from a nonprofit in Syracuse. Made about $55k so I won't hit the full $504 max, but this thread has been so helpful for understanding how everything works. One thing I learned during my application process is that you can actually check your benefit amount estimate before you finish filing by logging into the NY.gov unemployment portal. They have a calculator tool that shows you what to expect based on your earnings history. It was pretty accurate compared to what I'm actually receiving now. Also wanted to mention that if anyone is struggling with the job search requirements, the NYSDOL website has a list of approved job search activities beyond just applying to jobs - things like attending career fairs, networking events, or even taking skills assessments can count toward your weekly requirements. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences here!

Thanks everyone for all the detailed info! This has been incredibly helpful as I prepare to file. Just to summarize what I've learned from this thread: I should expect the $504 weekly maximum based on my $68k salary, file ASAP after my layoff date, have my Social Security card, ID, and employment records ready (including that FEIN number), and be prepared for a one-week waiting period. The benefit calculator tool on NY.gov sounds like a great way to double-check everything before I submit. I really appreciate everyone sharing their real experiences - it's so much more useful than trying to parse through the official government websites. Hopefully my application process goes as smoothly as it did for Grace and others here!

Just wanted to add my experience as someone who recently went through this process in Buffalo. The $504 maximum is definitely correct for 2025 - I can confirm that personally. One thing that caught me off guard was that even though I qualified for the maximum weekly amount, my first payment was slightly delayed because they had to verify my identity through ID.me. The verification process took about 3-4 business days, so don't panic if there's a short delay beyond the usual waiting period. Also, make sure your direct deposit information is accurate when you set up your account - any errors there can cause additional delays in receiving your payments. The whole system actually worked pretty well once I got through the initial setup. Good luck with your application Grant!

This has been such an informative thread! I'm in a similar boat - just got notice that my position at a tech startup in Rochester is being eliminated next month. Making about $72k so it sounds like I'll also qualify for the $504 maximum. I'm wondering though, does anyone know if there are any differences in the application process or benefit calculations if you get advance notice of a layoff versus being laid off immediately? I have about 3 weeks before my last day, so I'm trying to figure out if I should wait until my actual termination date to file or if there's anything I can do to prepare in advance. Also, has anyone dealt with severance pay and how that affects the timing of when you can start collecting benefits? My company mentioned a small severance package but I'm not sure how that interacts with unemployment eligibility.