If you lost your job through a layoff, business closure, or other reasons beyond your control, you may qualify for Unemployment Insurance (UI).
Heads Up
To collect unemployment benefits, you must be ready, willing, and able to work, and you must be actively seeking work. You'll need to keep a written record of your job search activities.Not sure if you qualify? File a claim anyway. New York State will review your application and determine your eligibility.You can file a claim for UI if you worked in New York State within the past 18 months but are now unemployed.Once your claim is approved, you can get up to 26 weeks of benefits while you're unemployed.Income from unemployment benefits is taxable on your federal and state tax returns.You'll need a valid Social Security Number and government-issued ID or employment authorization card (work permit).After you applyProcessing your claim takes 3 to 6 weeks on average. New York State uses this time to review your information and verify your eligibility. You will not receive payments during this period, which is why you may see your claim status as "pending."Your first payment arrives 2 to 3 weeks after your claim is completed. In some cases, New York State needs additional information before payment can be made, and your first payment may take longer.Watch out for scamsAnyone calling from the New York State Department of Labor will verify their identity by providing two things:The date you filed your applicationThe type of claim you filedIf a caller can't provide this information, do not share any personal details.
Eligibility
To be eligible for Unemployment Insurance, you must:
Have lost your job through no fault of your ownBe actively seeking work and able to start a job immediatelyBe authorized to work in the US (and have been authorized when you lost your job)You'll also need to:Keep a written record of your job search activities each week (you can use the JobZone work search tool (https://dol.ny.gov/jobzone) )Attend required appointments at your local Career CenterMeet minimum earnings requirements (see how much you need to have earned (https://dol.ny.gov/how-much-will-my-benefit-be) )
Required Documents
What you'll need to file for Unemployment Insurance:Your personal information
Full name, phone number, and mailing addressSocial Security NumberDriver's license, state ID, or employment authorization number (if you're not a US citizen)Bank account number and routing numberInformation about your past jobs (last 18 months)Your employer's legal name and addressYour employer's Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or New York State registration number (you can find this on your W-2 or employment record)Your start and end datesYour wage detailsIf you served in the military in the last 18 months, you'll also need your DD214
How to Apply
The easiest way to apply for unemployment benefits is online on the NYS DOL website (https://dol.ny.gov/how-do-i-file) . If you are found eligible for benefits, you will need to certify your benefits (https://dol.ny.gov/when-should-i-certify) every week.Call 888-209-8124 to apply over the phone. If you are found eligible, certify your benefits every week by calling 888-581-5812.Interpretation services are available.
If you are hearing impaired, have your helper call the Telephone Claims Center at 888-783-1370.For TTY/TDD, call a relay operator first at 800-662-1220, and ask the operator to call the Telephone Claims Center at 888-783-1370 for you.
Online
Apply online at the NYS DOL website (https://dol.ny.gov/unemployment/unemployment-insurance-assistance) .
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By Mail
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Get Help
Visit the websiteVisit the NYS Unemployment Insurance website (https://dol.ny.gov/unemployment-claimant-benefit-process-0) for more information.Call 311Ask for New York State Unemployment Insurance assistance.
