Cahill informs residents of unemployment insurance updates

In recognizing the uncertainty surrounding federal unemployment assistance, Assemblymember Kevin A. Cahill (Ulster/Dutchess) has issued updated guidance regarding currently available benefits for New Yorkers.

“As of July 31, the weekly $600 federal pandemic unemployment compensation (FPUC) has expired, causing considerable confusion. I urge residents to continue weekly certifications, which will ensure you receive your unemployment insurance (UI) or pandemic unemployment assistance (PUA). The Department of Labor advised that they will process any additional funds if/when they are made available as long as you continue to certify,” Cahill said.

State benefits available to New Yorkers:

√ File online seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., or call 888-209-8124 from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. weekdays.

√ Any claim one files will be backdated to the date one became unemployed. If one is eligible, one will be paid for all benefits due.

√ Continue to claim weekly benefits if unemployed and meeting the eligibility requirements.

√ Check mail, email and texts, and respond to any questionnaires, online forms or phone calls from the Department of Labor right away to prevent delays in payments.

√ If filing for the first time, sign in or create a NY.gov ID account and follow the instructions to file a claim. https://dol.ny.gov/unemployment/file-your-first-claim-benefits

PUA also extends benefits to individuals who have traditionally been ineligible for unemployment insurance benefits (e.g., self-employed workers, independent contractors and farmers). Under federal law, those receiving PUA are eligible for up to 46 weeks of benefits.

New Yorkers who are receiving regular unemployment insurance benefits are eligible for up to 59 weeks of benefits. This includes 26 weeks of regular benefits, 13 weeks of pandemic emergency unemployment compensation (PEUC) and up to 20 weeks of extended benefits (EB).

Additionally, Cahill reminds individuals that DOL representatives are working remotely, so one’s caller ID may show “PRIVATE CALLER.” Employees will verify their identity by providing:

√  The date one filed an application.

√ The type of claim.

“As always, my office will continue to update residents as we receive clarification from federal administration,” Cahill said. “Relevant information can be found on our ‘Frequently Asked Questions Surrounding Unemployment Insurance Amid the Covid-19 Pandemic.’ We also urge those with problems or additional questions regarding unemployment insurance benefits to call our office at 845-338-9610.”