Effective October 6, 2025, the maximum unemployment benefit rate available to eligible employees increased from $504 to $869 per week. This is the first time the maximum benefit rate has changed since 2019 and is the result of the New York State payoff of the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund loan.
How much an individual receives on a weekly basis is based on their previous income. Additionally, to be eligible for Unemployment Insurance benefits an employee must demonstrate that they:
- Have lost employment through no fault of their own
- Have enough prior earnings from employment to establish a claim
- Are ready, willing and able to work immediately
- Are actively seeking work
- Keep a written record of work search activities for each week they claim benefits
- Attend required appointments at a local Career Center
Upon receipt of a notice from the New York State Department of Labor that a charge against an employer account is contemplated as a result of a claim for unemployment benefits, an employer has two options: (1) do nothing, if there is no basis to contest the claim or (2) submit a written protest.
If any reason exists to contest the claim, an employer should submit all relevant and available information to allow the Labor Department to make an initial determination. The failure to do so on a timely basis may impeded the ability to avoid charges to an employer’s account even if the employee is determined to be ineligible for benefits. After the initial determination, an appeal can be filed by either the employer or the employee.
To download a pdf version of this Alert click HERE.
If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact me.
About the Author: Ralph A. Somma
Ralph A. Somma is an experienced employment lawyer from Long Island, New York who has been practicing labor & employment law exclusively for over 33 years.
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