1. How it Works
If you lost your job and it was not your fault, you might be able to get unemployment insurance. Unemployment insurance will give you some money, based on what you earned. To get insurance, you must be looking for a new job.
- If you worked in New York State within the last 18 months, you have the right to file a claim for benefits
- You can claim your benefits weekly for up to 26 weeks while you are unemployed
- Requires a valid Social Security Number and government-issued ID card
- It takes three to six weeks from the time you file your claim to receive your first payment
- Apply online or by phone
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2. Determine your eligibility
You may be eligible if you can answer yes to these questions.
- Did you lose your job through no fault of your own (for example: you got laid off)?
- Did you work within the last 18 months?
- Are you ready, willing, and able to work immediately?
- Are you actively seeking work and keep a record (online or written) of your efforts?
- Do you have enough income from your most recent work to establish a claim?
Take a short survey to see if you might be eligible for this or 30 other programs.
Am I Eligible?Next section:
3. What you need to include
To file for unemployment benefits, you will need to provide proof of the following:
- Citizenship or immigration status: such as a work authorization card.
- Your identity and date of birth: such as a driver’s license or non-driver’s license ID.
- Your income (if any): such as your recent income tax, current pay stubs, or award letters.
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4. How to apply
Here are your options.
Apply online
Apply by phone
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