On April 4, 46,000 New Yorkers across the state (about half are in the city) will lose their unemployment benefits this week. The NY State Department of Labor's John Moye told WCBS 2, "It's unprecedented, absolutely. It's a reflection of the economic challenges we're facing in the country, particularly in our state."
The NYS DOL also says, "In addition to the issues facing the 46,000 New Yorkers who are exhausting all 99 weeks of benefits possible this week, for the second time in two months, federal provisions under Unemployment Insurance, COBRA healthcare benefits, Federal Extended Benefits and the $25 weekly benefit increase will expire on April 5," and mentioned the frustrations of one of its Facebook fans—Judiann Villela, who wrote, "I was let go Feb of 2008...for economic reasons. It certainly was as BAD for companies then as it is now. It started in 2007. Please if you have a job for me... let me know. I had two interviews last week. I have two set for this week. I have been out there for two years. It is not easy when there are so many applying for one position. Do not point fingers until you've been in my shoes."
The NYS DOL recommends that unemployed New Yorkers go to the my Benefits website to review their situations. Also, for those of you experiencing difficulty reaching the unemployment phone line or website, the NYS DOL says, "We are still experiencing unprecedented volume with our telephone and web... For those concerned about moving from regular benefits to Tier 1 of extension benefits under current federal legislation, be advised that you have until this Saturday April 3rd to certify for benefits for the week ending 3/28/10."
And last month, NYC unemployment rate went down to 10.2%, from 10.4% in January, while the state unemployment rate was steady at 8.8%.
