Starting this month, New York State has increased the maximum weekly unemployment insurance (UI) benefit from $504 to $869.
This change comes as over 115,000 federal employees in New York are affected by a GOP-led federal government shutdown, leaving them without pay.
The benefit increase is made possible after the state paid off its Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund loan in the FY 2026 budget, restoring the fund’s solvency.
This move not only boosts benefits for unemployed New Yorkers but also reduces costs for businesses.
The change is part of Governor Hochul’s broader plan to support workers and strengthen the economy by both enhancing worker benefits and cutting business expenses.
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