New York Expands Unemployment Benefits Notice Requirements

New York has enacted legislation (Senate Bill S4878-A), which expands the circumstances under which an employer must provide notice to employees of their eligibility for unemployment benefits. Senate Bill S4878-A takes effect on Nov. 13, 2023.

The Details

As background, current law requires employers to inform their employees of their right to file an application for unemployment upon the employee's permanent or indefinite separation.

Notice Requirements

Under the new law, Senate Bill S4878-A, employers must also provide the same notice for:

• Any reduction in hours;
• Temporary separation; or
• Any other interruption of continued employment that results in total or partial unemployment.

The notice must be provided in writing on a form furnished or approved by the NY Department of Labor and must include:

• The employer's name and registration number;
• The address of the employer where a request for remuneration and employment information with respect to such employee must be directed; and
• Other information required by the commissioner.

Next Steps

• Review unemployment notice distribution practices.
• Train personnel and supervisors on the requirements under Senate Bill S4878-A.