If you applied for unemployment benefits last year and need them again, you may need to reopen or reapply to continue receiving payments.

You have up to one year from the date you filed your initial claim to collect the maximum balance of your unemployment (UI) benefits, which can be up to 26 weeks, if you qualify.

When should you reapply or reopen your application?

You must resubmit or reopen your unemployment claim if:

• He became unemployed again after returning to work
• Previously, I did not meet the requirements or was disqualified, and the reason I was ineligible no longer applies.
• She stopped receiving payments for a period of time and now wants to get certified and start receiving payments again.

What is the deadline for reopening your application?

You can reopen or reapply within one year from the date you first applied for unemployment benefits.

To reopen the applicationYou will need to answer a few questions. Since an application already exists in the system, this process is usually faster and simpler than completing a new application, as much of your information will already be on file.

What happens after you reopen your application?

Once you submit your answers, your application will be reviewed.

If you meet the requirements, you will be able to start certifying your payments the following week and receive payment for the current week.

If you believe you qualify for prior weeks in which you were unable to reopen or reapply, you can call 732-761-2020 to request access to certification for those weeks.