Governor Hochul and Labor Leaders Announce Maximum Weekly Benefit Increase for Unemployed Workers

Governor Kathy Hochul and labor leaders today announced the maximum weekly unemployment insurance (UI) benefit increase for unemployed workers across the state. As part of the Governor's FY26 Enacted Budget, the State invested nearly $7 billion to pay off the federal UI Trust Fund loan, and bring the fund to solvency and increase the maximum weekly benefit from $504 to $869. The increase in UI benefits comes at the same time as the GOP federal shutdown impacts 115,000 federal employees in New York, leaving them without paychecks.

"Donald Trump and Washington Republicans' agenda is a direct attack on hardworking New Yorkers, with reckless trade wars causing skyrocketing prices, and now their decision to shutdown the federal government has left thousands of New Yorkers unemployed and unsupported," Governor Hochul said. "It's a stark contrast to everything we're doing here in New York. With the weekly maximum benefits increasing starting this month, we are able to uplift unemployed New Yorkers, including those that Republicans in Washington have failed, while cutting costs to businesses."

New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, "Increasing the maximum weekly unemployment insurance benefit will greatly help New Yorkers navigating job loss. This historic increase will help more people make ends meet when they need it most and put money directly into the hands of those out of work through no fault of their own. I am grateful to Governor Hochul and the State Legislature for working together to pay off the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt and make these increases possible."

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the UI Trust Fund had a positive balance of nearly $2.5 billion. However, due to the economic downturn caused by the pandemic, the balance was paid out to New Yorkers, requiring the State to borrow from the federal government to continue paying eligible claims. Paying off the debt and making the fund solvent has allowed the State to increase the maximum UI benefit rate so that it better aligns with other states and changes to the taxable wage base to help build up reserves and stabilize the UI Trust Fund for the future.

Starting with payments issued the week of October 13, the maximum amount customers can receive weekly will increase from $504 to $869, and increases are expected for many customers even if they are not currently receiving the highest rate. The weekly benefit payment amount is determined by how much a worker earned during a specific base period. New Yorkers can use this tool to estimate their weekly Unemployment Insurance benefit amount.

By paying off the debt, the State is also putting money back in the pockets of business owners, whose contribution rates had continued to climb while the debt was paid down. Employers will no longer receive annual Interest Assessment Surcharge (IAS) bills and are projected to save an average of $100 per employee in 2026 and $250 in 2027. Additionally, the taxable wage base will increase in 2026, strengthening the trust fund over time and helping to maintain affordable tax rates for New York's employers in the long term.

"With the weekly maximum benefits increasing starting this month, we are able to uplift unemployed New Yorkers, including those that Republicans in Washington have failed, while cutting costs to businesses."

State Senator James Sanders Jr. said, "I commend Governor Hochul for her leadership in restoring strength to New York's Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund and providing long-overdue relief to working families. This increase-from $504 to $869 a week-means that unemployed New Yorkers can better support their families and communities while seeking new opportunities. Here in Queens, where hardworking people often carry multiple jobs to make ends meet, this boost will bring real breathing room. By paying off the federal loan and restoring the fund's solvency, we're also helping small businesses across the state-especially minority- and women-owned firms-to save money and reinvest in their workforce. This is the kind of balanced economic progress New York needs: protecting workers while strengthening the foundation for future growth."

State Senator Shelley B. Mayer said, "I am deeply proud that New York has stepped up to provide meaningful support to New Yorkers as they navigate unemployment and the hardships that result from loss of income. During particularly challenging times, with the rising cost of living and the federal government shutdown, it is critical that New York's unemployment insurance (UI) benefits provide the necessary support to families that reflect the actual cost of living. Under the leadership of Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins and Governor Hochul, the New York State Legislature was able to raise the maximum UI benefit for the first time since 2019 and further ease the burden on business by paying off the state's federal unemployment debt. In New York we are committed to putting people first and providing the necessary support to help families stay afloat, pay their bills, and get back on their feet."

State Senator Robert Jackson said, "Unemployment insurance is more than a safety net-it is a covenant between the government and the people it serves. When a worker loses a job, they should not lose their dignity. By paying off our state's debt and raising weekly benefits, New York is proving what responsible governance looks like: sound fiscal management joined with social justice. In a moment when federal dysfunction has left 115,000 workers without pay, our state has chosen a different path-one rooted in stability, fairness, and respect for labor. This is how we protect working families and strengthen the foundation of our economy."

State Senator Nathalia Fernandez said, "This increase is welcome news for New Yorkers. At a time when so many families are feeling the impact of the federal shutdown, it's reassuring to see our state step up to ensure those facing economic hardship are supported."

Assemblymember Michaelle C. Solages said, "Raising unemployment benefits means real relief for workers who are struggling to make ends meet, and it helps businesses too. This is about doing what's right for working families and keeping our economy strong and fair. I thank Speaker Carl Heastie and Governor Kathy Hochul for their leadership in making this long-overdue increase happen."

Assemblymember Latrice Walker said, "This is great news for individuals, families, and business owners in and around my district. Many people find themselves out of work while still facing the burden of bills and household expenses. The increase in the maximum weekly benefits might mean that some people won't have to make the difficult choice between food and utilities. Maybe they won't have to decide whether to buy school supplies or pay the rent. I also applaud the agreement between Gov. Hochul and labor leaders for the savings it will bring to business owners."

Assemblymember Harry Bronson said, "Paying down the UI trust debt and making it solvent was necessary so we could increase the benefit level, which has been stagnant at 2019 level of $504 maximum per week. The new maximum benefit is $869 per week and indexed at 50% of the average weekly wage, going up each year thereafter. This benefit increase addresses family affordability by easing the burden for those who become unemployed and providing a vital safety net so they're able to make ends meet during the transition to their next job. I am grateful to and thank labor and business who supported the Assembly's proposal to return the trust fund to solvency and substantial benefit increase. The enhanced weekly benefit is especially important now as New York families cannot rely on the federal government to support the middle class. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her leadership and Speaker Heastie for ensuring this deal to help workers was part of final budget."

Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman said, "Today's announcement by Governor Hochul and labor leaders marks a significant step forward for New York's workforce and businesses. The increase in the maximum weekly unemployment insurance benefit from $504 to $869, alongside the restoration of the UI Trust Fund's solvency, offers crucial financial support to unemployed individuals, especially during the current federal shutdown. This initiative is expected to generate substantial savings for employers through reduced contribution rates, reflecting our commitment to worker protection and economic resilience."

Assemblymember Nily Rozic said, "New Yorkers work hard to support their families and deserve the security of knowing that help is there when they need it most. Increasing unemployment benefits means a stronger safety net and more stability for workers navigating difficult times. I'm grateful to Governor Hochul for taking action to strengthen our unemployment system, protect jobs, and ensure that New Yorkers aren't left behind."

Assemblymember Al Taylor said,
"This increase isn't just about numbers, it's about people trying to stay afloat while they work toward stability. Too many New Yorkers are one paycheck away from crisis, and when jobs disappear, that safety net makes all the difference. By raising unemployment benefits and restoring the fund, we're making sure the system works the way it should, supporting workers with dignity, not debt. I applaud the Governor for tackling this head-on and proving that fiscal responsibility and compassion can go hand in hand."

Assemblymember Sarah Clark said, "Raising the weekly maximum for unemployment insurance is a vital step toward ensuring dignity and stability for workers facing temporary hardship. I commend my legislative colleagues, Governor Hochul, and our labor leaders for their leadership advancing fairness while also maintaining fiscal discipline. This turns the final corner for New Yorkers from the turbulence of the pandemic. Supporting workers keeps communities strong and helps families thrive across our state"

Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar said, "Unemployment insurance is a lifeline that allows New Yorkers to keep food on the table, pay rent, and weather life's most difficult transitions with dignity. This week, workers will see a record $365 increase to the maximum weekly benefit. I am proud to be a leading voice supporting workers utilizing UI, having introduced legislation to exempt these benefits from State income tax. I am equally proud to have worked with Governor Hochul to include the benefit increase in our enacted budget, while also taking the fiscally prudent step of paying off our $7 billion UI Trust Fund loan. In an era of rising prices and over 100,000 federal employees in New York furloughed, we are putting money back in the pockets of New Yorkers when they need it most, while supporting businesses by lowering contribution rates. Together, we will ensure every New Yorker has a financial lifeline to stand on their own two feet and build a brighter future."

Assemblymember Nikki Lucas said, "I am proud to have worked with Governor Hochul and my colleagues to ensure that unemployment is protected for all New Yorkers including those in district 60 (East New York, Canarsie, Brownsville). The work we have accomplished by paying off the debt, allows us to increase unemployment insurance from $504 to $869 starting this month. This is about putting New Yorkers first, helping them put extra food on the table and helping their families progress. As legislators, we're here to put people first and I won't stop fighting until every community feels that impact."

Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia said, "This increase in unemployment benefits is about dignity and stability for working families. In the Bronx, this change means that more families will have real support to be able to put food on the table. Together with my colleagues in the Legislature and Governor Hochul, we delivered meaningful relief for unemployed New Yorkers and savings for small businesses."

Assemblymember Stefani L. Zinerman said, "Increasing unemployment benefits is about more than temporary support - it's about giving New Yorkers the security to focus on finding work that supports themselves and their future. By strengthening these benefits, we are helping people stay financially stable, giving workers the breathing room to pursue meaningful, family-sustaining jobs, and supporting the local businesses that keep our neighborhoods thriving."

Assemblymember Monique Chandler-Waterman said, "This achievement is a clear win for working-class New Yorkers. For too long, unemployed workers have been forced to survive on outdated and inadequate benefits, but no longer. Increasing the maximum weekly benefit from $504 to $869 is a bold and necessary step forward that will provide thousands of families with the stability, dignity, and financial support they deserve during times of economic uncertainty. This step paves the way for us to modernize and strengthen our unemployment system, ensure quicker and more reliable access to benefits, and provide real relief to families when they need it most. At a time when over thousands of federal workers in New York are being furloughed without pay due to a reckless GOP shutdown, this increase couldn't be more urgent. This action ensures that people who fall on hard times aren't left behind, and we're doing it while saving our small businesses money and bringing long-overdue solvency back to the unemployment system. This is what equity looks like. This is what leadership looks like. And this is how we build a stronger New York for everyone."

Assemblymember George Alvarez said, "This increase in unemployment benefits is a lifeline for thousands of hardworking New Yorkers who are struggling to make ends meet. By restoring the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund and raising the maximum benefit, Governor Hochul and the Legislature are ensuring that workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own can support their families with dignity. This action not only strengthens our workforce, but also helps stabilize small businesses and our economy here in the Bronx and across the state."

Assemblymember Steven Raga said, "By fully paying off this debt and stabilizing the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund, we're delivering critical savings that will allow employers to reinvest in wages, hiring, and communities-while also restoring benefits for job seekers who've faced capped benefits since 2019. At a time where the federal administration furloughs 115,000 New Yorkers, this action provides much-needed relief and support for hardworking families. Thank you to Governor Hochul for her leadership in securing such wins for employers and workers."

Assemblymember Tony Simone said, "The increase in weekly unemployment benefits is yet another sign that New York State delivers for New Yorkers. By responsibly paying off our Unemployment Trust Fund debt in this year's budget, we are now in a position to put more money in the pockets of workers when needed, build up reserves, all while decreasing contribution rates for businesses. I applaud Governor Hochul, Speaker Heastie and Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins for their responsible fiscal stewardship of the unemployment trust fund."

Assemblymember Landon Dais said, "At a time when federal support is being scaled back, New York is stepping up. Governor Hochul's move to increase the maximum weekly unemployment benefit from $504 to $869 is not just a number; it's a lifeline for thousands of hardworking New Yorkers who find themselves between jobs. By paying off the Trust Fund loan and restoring solvency, we're strengthening our social safety net and proving once again that New York takes care of its own. This isn't just about dollars and cents; it's about dignity, stability, and making sure our neighbors don't fall through the cracks. I'm proud to stand with the Governor and my colleagues in the Legislature to ensure that New York remains a state that protects its workers and builds a stronger, more resilient economy for everyone."

Assemblymember Noah Burroughs said, "At a time when so many New Yorkers are feeling the pressure of rising costs, this increase offers meaningful relief. It's a reminder that government works best when it puts people first and takes action to protect working families."

Assemblymember Judy Griffin said, "I was proud to support improvements to New York's unemployment insurance system in the state budget. Paying off the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund loan incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic provides much needed financial relief to New York's businesses, and increasing the maximum weekly benefit to better reflect the cost of living ensures more New Yorkers will be able to make ends meet during their time of need. While the federal government neglects the priorities of New Yorkers, our state government will continue to take common sense steps to support New York businesses and residents."

Assemblymember Larinda C. Hooks said, "Today marks a victory for working families across New York. The increase in weekly unemployment benefits will give those who have fallen on hard times, a stronger safety net, and a fair chance to get back on their feet. This is what government should do; stand up for people, protect their dignity, and make sure every New Yorker has the opportunity to recover, rebuild, and rise stronger than before."

Assemblymember John Zaccaro, Jr. said, "I applaud Governor Hochul for taking this important step to increase the maximum weekly benefit for unemployed workers. Across our state-and especially here in the Bronx-we are facing an economic crisis. For workers who are seasonal or have been laid off, in no small part due to President Trump's government shutdown, this increase in benefits will go a long way toward helping them cover essential costs such as rent, groceries, and other necessities until they are able to secure employment."

Assemblymember Micah Lasher said, "This increase in unemployment benefits demonstrates New York's unwavering commitment to support working families in the face of federal uncertainty. By bringing the UI Trust Fund to solvency, New York is strengthening the social safety net, supporting our small businesses, and protecting New Yorkers long term."

Assemblymember Sarah Clark said, "Raising the weekly maximum for unemployment insurance is a vital step toward ensuring dignity and stability for workers facing temporary hardship. I commend my legislative colleagues, Governor Hochul, and our labor leaders for their leadership advancing fairness while also maintaining fiscal discipline. This turns the final corner for New Yorkers from the turbulence of the pandemic. Supporting workers keeps communities strong and helps families thrive across our state."

New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento said, "During this time of chaos and confusion in Washington, here in New York, we are proudly taking action to support workers who are struggling to make ends meet when they find themselves out of work, through no fault of their own. I thank Governor Hochul, Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins, and Speaker Heastie for acknowledging the urgent need to significantly increase benefits, ensuring that workers can better support themselves and their families during times of unemployment."

New York State Building Trades President Gary LaBarbera said, "It is important that we do what we can to uplift those New Yorkers who may be out of work or unsupported due to circumstances outside of their control, particularly during this challenging moment. Equipping these otherwise hardworking individuals to continue to support their families and contribute to their communities only benefits our larger economy and sustains the middle class. We applaud Governor Hochul and Commissioner Reardon for pushing this increase to benefits forward, which will ultimately get more people back on their feet and keep them well-positioned to continue their careers after this storm passes."

Hotel and Gaming Trades Council President Rich Maroko said, "Earlier this year, New York's working families had a major victory when Governor Hochul and the legislature paid off the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt, allowing the maximum weekly benefit to increase by over $350. This month, that lifeline goes into effect. Whether facing uncertainty due to the ongoing federal government shutdown or a labor dispute, New Yorkers and their families deserve financial security when facing unemployment. I am proud to celebrate this win for not just hospitality workers, but all workers across New York."

Public Employees Federation President Wayne Spence said, "Thanks to the leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, New York is increasing its support for unemployed workers and their families. With the federal government shut down, 115,000 federal workers in our state have been furloughed and left without paychecks. Governor Hochul is showing the nation what it looks like to fight for working people so that families can pay their rent and put food on the table. When you're out-of-work, added paycheck protection goes a long way. PEF members at the Department of Labor help administer the unemployment insurance program and will be grateful to deliver the good news to New Yorkers."

Contact the Governor's Press Office