I'm currently in week 22 and trying to get prepared for when my benefits end in a month. This thread has been incredibly valuable - way more informative than the official NYSDOL resources! I wanted to add something I discovered that might help others: if you're considering the WIOA training programs, many local community colleges have "WIOA navigators" who can help you identify which programs have the shortest wait times and best job placement rates in your area. I met with one last week and learned that some certifications that seem popular (like basic computer skills) actually have lower funding priority compared to specialized programs in healthcare, green energy, or advanced manufacturing. Also, for anyone worried about the gap between when benefits end and when new support kicks in - I've been building up a small emergency fund by cutting expenses now while I still have income coming in. Even saving $20-30 per week for these last few weeks can help cover basic expenses during the transition period. Has anyone looked into whether there are any county-specific programs beyond the state-level ones? I'm wondering if local governments have additional resources that aren't widely advertised.

I'm also approaching the end of my benefits (week 24) and this thread has been absolutely invaluable! Thank you to everyone who's shared their real experiences - it's so much more helpful than the vague official information. One thing I wanted to add that I discovered recently: if you're eligible for WIOA training, you can sometimes stack multiple short-term certifications instead of doing one longer program. For example, I'm looking at getting both a Google Workspace certification AND a project management certificate through the same funding approval. The WIOA counselor told me this can actually make you more competitive in the job market than having just one certification. Also, I found out that some local libraries have partnerships with online learning platforms (like LinkedIn Learning or Coursera) that you can access for free with a library card. Even if you're waiting for WIOA approval, you can start building skills immediately at no cost. For those stressed about the financial gap - I've been researching local food banks and community organizations now while I still have some income. Many have programs specifically designed for people transitioning off unemployment benefits. It's better to know what resources exist before you actually need them. The preparation approach really seems to be key here. Thanks again to everyone sharing their knowledge!

same thing happened to my neighbor, she just had to apply for other benefits and keep looking for work

This is such a frustrating situation and unfortunately very common. The system calculates your total benefit amount when you first file based on your previous wages, and once that money is gone, that's it - even if you have weeks left in your benefit year. It's not based on a guaranteed 26 weeks, but rather on your specific monetary entitlement. I'd suggest calling the NYS DOL to confirm you don't qualify for any extensions, and definitely look into other safety net programs like SNAP, emergency rental assistance, and local food banks while you continue your job search. Don't give up - keep applying and using all the job placement services available through the state.

Just wanted to add that timing matters too when you're thinking about filing. If you're still in that 6-week probationary period and things aren't working out, you might want to consider whether leaving would be considered "good cause" versus being terminated. NYS Department of Labor distinguishes between quitting for good cause (like unsafe working conditions, significant changes to job duties, etc.) and just quitting because the job isn't a good fit. If you're terminated during probation through no fault of your own, that's usually fine for unemployment eligibility. But if you quit just because it's not working out, that could complicate things even if you meet all the wage requirements everyone mentioned.

I've been through a similar situation where I wasn't sure about my eligibility after starting a new job. What really helped me was calling the NYS Department of Labor directly to go over my specific work history and wage credits. They can tell you exactly where you stand based on your individual circumstances. The representatives are usually pretty helpful once you get through - though I know that can be the challenging part! They can also explain how your previous employment would factor into the base period calculation, which varies depending on when exactly you file. It's worth having that conversation before you make any decisions about the job, especially since you're still in the probationary period where things could go either way.

The whole partial unemployment thing is such a nightmare with NYS Department of Labor. I've been dealing with this for months and they keep changing how much they deduct from my benefits. Sometimes I think they just make it complicated on purpose to discourage people from filing claims.

I went through something similar last year with NYS Department of Labor. The key thing to remember is that you need to report your reduced hours as "part-time work" on your weekly claim, not as residual pay. Residual pay is specifically for things like final vacation payouts or severance after you've completely separated from employment. Since you're still getting some hours (even if it's just 4 per week), you're considered partially unemployed. Make sure to report those earnings exactly - don't round up or down. The system will automatically calculate your partial benefit amount. Also keep all your pay stubs as documentation in case they audit your claim later.

To answer the earlier question about timing - the standards typically begin to relax after 13-16 weeks, with more significant changes around week 20-26. However, this can vary based on local unemployment rates and your specific circumstances. The important thing is to keep detailed records and continue your active job search. If you're unsure about a specific job offer, it's worth consulting with your local workforce development office before declining.

Thanks for all this helpful info everyone! I'm in a similar spot at week 16 and just want to add - make sure you're also documenting any training or certification programs you might be doing to improve your qualifications. NYS Department of Labor sometimes views this favorably when evaluating whether you're making reasonable efforts to find suitable work. I started an online logistics certification course and mentioned it when they questioned why I turned down a retail job that was way below my skill level. Also, if you're a union member, check if they have any guidance on suitable work requirements - mine had some really specific advice about what constitutes comparable work in our industry.