Unemployment FAQs(These rules are specific to NY; Rules vary by State) Q:) Can an employee collect unemployment while on furlough?
A:) Yes. The current maximum weekly benefit from New York State is $504. Q:) Is there a waiting period before an employee can collect?
A:) Normally there is a one-week waiting period. New York State is currently waiving this requirement. Q:) Can a furloughed employee come back to work intermittently or on a reduced schedule?
A:) Yes. Partial unemployment benefits can be paid only if the employee works less than four days a week and earns $504 or less. Each day or part of a day of work causes the weekly benefit rate to drop by one-quarter. Example:
- If the weekly unemployment benefit rate is $200, and the employee works three days and earns less than $504, they may receive $50 in benefits.
- If the employee works two days, they may receive $100 in benefits. If they work one day, they may receive $150 in benefits.
- Receiving partial benefits extends the length of time the employee may collect benefits. If the employee earns over $504 in any week, no matter how many days worked, they cannot receive benefits for that week.
Q:) Can an employee collect unemployment insurance while on Paid Family Leave?
A:) No. When an employee is on Paid Family Leave (or vacation or any other paid leave), he or she is not entitled to unemployment benefits because he or she is still employed, even if not required to perform work. Eligibility requirements to receive benefits
- Loss of employment through no fault of the employee
- Must have enough prior earnings from employment to establish a claim
- Must be ready, willing, and able to work immediately
- Must be actively seeking work
- Must keep a written record of work search activities for each week benefits are claimed, or use the word search tool located here
- To apply for benefits:
Q:) If I furlough an employee do I have to pay out accrued vacation or sick time?
A:) No. You can permit or require employees to use their accrued vacation time or PTO during the furlough. Employees that use accrued but unused PTO will delay the collection of unemployment benefits. Furloughs and temporary layoffs are not easy.When you’re trying to save money, and potentially your business, good planning for employee benefits decisions should be part of the process, as furloughs and unemployment are not so easy to manage. Call us. We are here to help. We can be reached Monday – Friday from 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
@ 516-599-2120 or Info@VantagePointBenefit.com. |