I was laid off 6/2023 and successfully files a claim. I had received 21 of the possible 26 weeks and then I started a new job 11/6/2023. I worked at the new job for 2 months when the clients funding was lost and the position was elimnated. I still have $4,150 remaining on the previous claim (5 weeks in NJ). I see on the internet that I can submit for a brand new 26 week claim for 2024 but I was wondering if I need to first complete receiving the remaining 5 weeks on the previous claim before i can open a new claim. OR do I just proceed to file a new claim even though the last one still shows a remaining balance. Please advise so I know how to proceed.

A) You don’t necessarily need to exhaust the remaining 5 weeks on your previous claim before filing a new one in NJ as of January 17, 2024. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

Scenario 1: File a new claim now:

• You can proceed to file a new claim for 2024 if you meet the eligibility requirements for a new benefit year, which in NJ typically involve earning sufficient wages during a base period (usually the previous four quarters).
• Since you started a new job in November 2023 and earned wages, you likely fulfilled the base period requirement.
• However, there might be a waiting period before you can start receiving benefits on the new claim. This waiting period varies by state and can be up to one week in NJ.

Scenario 2: Wait until you exhaust the remaining balance on your previous claim:

• If you prefer, you can wait until you receive the remaining 5 weeks of benefits on your existing claim before filing a new one.
• This might be advantageous if you’re unsure about meeting the eligibility requirements for a new claim or want to avoid the potential waiting period.
• Remember, your benefit year on the previous claim might expire before you exhaust the remaining balance, depending on when you first filed the claim.

Here are some additional factors to consider:

• Unemployed for at least 4 weeks in the new year: To qualify for a new claim in NJ, you must be unemployed for at least four weeks in the new year (after December 31st, 2023). If you file a new claim before then, you might need to wait until you meet this requirement to start receiving benefits.
• Reason for job separation: The reason for job separation from your new job (funding loss and position elimination) likely qualifies as “good cause” in NJ, making you eligible for unemployment benefits.
• Documentation: Keep all relevant documentation related to both your previous and new job separations, such as separation notices, pay stubs, and doctor’s notes (if applicable).

Ultimately, the decision of whether to file a new claim now or wait is up to you. Weigh the pros and cons of each option based on your specific circumstances and preferences.

Here are some resources that might be helpful:

• NJ Division of Unemployment Insurance: https://myunemployment.nj.gov/
• U.S. Department of Labor’s Unemployment Insurance page: https://www.dol.gov/

I hope this information helps you decide the best course of action for your unemployment claim.