Purged federal workers should apply for unemployment insurance ASAP

February 18, 2025 Brooklyn Eagle Staff

Elon Musk listens as President Donald Trump meets with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Oval Office of the White House, Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025, in Washington. Photo: Alex Brandon/AP

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STATEWIDE — FEDERAL WORKERS PURGED in the recent Elon Musk-led nationwide firings should apply for unemployment insurance as soon as possible, the Federal News Network advises. Musk recently ordered that probationary Federal employees be fired, along with other workers across all federal agencies.

According to the publication Government Executive, this could include more than 200,000 federal employees who have been hired within the last year; many more senior employees may also have probationary status if they have been recently promoted.

The New York state Department of Labor advises unemployed persons to file a claim during their first week of total or partial unemployment. Those who wait may lose benefits. The best way to apply for unemployment benefits in New York is online at dol.ny.gov . (Make sure to upload any separation letters, records and pay stubs.)

Employees who are terminated have appeal rights before the Merit Systems Protection Board — though probationary workers have fewer chances to win appeal, according to FNN. The appeal must be filed within 30 days.

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