Purpose

The Shared Work Program helps employers survive temporary business downturns by giving them an alternative to layoffs. Businesses are able to cut back their employees’ hours and employees are able to collect partial Unemployment Insurance benefits to offset the loss in income.  The company is able to retain their skilled workforce and the employees retain their jobs.  

Eligibility

The business must have at least five full-time (35-40 hours/week) employees and must have paid Unemployment Insurance Tax contributions for at least four consecutive calendar quarters before applying.  

Contact

NYS Department of Labor
Unemployment Insurance Division
Liability and Determination Section
State Office Campus
Building 12
Albany, NY 12240
518-457-2635