CONCORD – Today, the “Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2008” was signed into law by the President. This act extends the current 13-week Emergency Unemployment Compensation Program by an additional 7 weeks. Individuals who have exhausted their 13-week emergency unemployment program may file a new claim for benefits beginning Sunday, November 23, 2008. The first payable week of benefits under the 7-week extension is the week ending November 29, 2008.

Commissioner Richard S. Brothers says he is “committed to assisting unemployed workers of New Hampshire and hopes this program will give citizens the additional financial means needed to secure a new employment opportunity during these tough economic conditions. This additional extension for unemployment benefits will be the much needed assistance to the citizens of New Hampshire."

NH Employment Security must determine if you are eligible for a regular unemployment claim in New Hampshire or under any other state or federal unemployment program prior to being eligible for any extension of benefits. If it is determined that regular unemployment insurance possibilities have been exhausted, then a claim for extended benefits can be established. Letters will be issued by NH Employment Security to those individuals affected by this additional extension of benefits. It is very important that if you have moved since you last filed a claim in NH, that you report any change of address to NH Employment Security by contacting your nearest Employment Security Office.

To file an Extended Benefits Unemployment Insurance claim, please go to https://claims.nhes.state.nh.us/weblogic/Home.jsp. If you need assistance filing a claim, please visit your nearest Employment Security Office. In addition, individuals must adhere to established unemployment laws and rules for program eligibility that include conducting the required job search and working with Employment Security staff to obtain new employment.

For more information and directions to Employment Security offices go to www.nh.gov/nhes/locations/ or call 1-800-852-3400.

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