Unemployment Benefits Extended in Massachusetts
Uncategorized May 13, 2025
Unemployment Benefits Extended in Massachusetts: What HR Professionals Should Know About the Change from 26 to 30 Weeks
A recent update to Massachusetts unemployment insurance (UI) law has extended the maximum number of weeks individuals can receive benefits from 26 to 30 weeks. This change reflects a rise in the state’s unemployment rate and is intended to provide additional support for job seekers.
As HR professionals, it’s important to understand this update, know how it affects current and former employees, and be ready to answer basic questions during offboarding or workforce transition conversations.
Why Did the Maximum Number of Benefit Weeks Increase?
Under Massachusetts law, if the twelve-month average unemployment rate in any of the state’s measured metropolitan areas rises above 5.1%, the maximum allowable duration of UI benefits increases to 30 weeks. This is a built-in economic response designed to provide more support during times of elevated joblessness.
The recent increase in the unemployment rate in at least one metro area has now triggered this provision statewide.
When Does the Change Take Effect?
The increase from 26 to 30 weeks applies to:
- All eligible UI claimants with a benefit year that includes the week beginning April 20, 2025.
- Both new and existing claimants, as long as they meet standard UI eligibility criteria.
Claimants do not need to file a new claim or take immediate action. The Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) will begin notifying eligible individuals in the coming weeks with instructions on how to claim the additional weeks through the state’s modernized online system.
Do Employees Need to Do Anything Right Now?
Not at this time. Claimants should:
- Continue filing weekly certifications and meeting eligibility requirements through the DUA’s online system.
- Wait for official communication from DUA if they have reached 26 weeks of benefits. The agency will provide next steps for accessing the additional weeks.
Work Search Requirements Still Apply
Work search activities remain a requirement for all claimants. Beginning May 6, 2025, individuals must record at least three work search activities per week and report those activities when requesting weekly benefits.
What Happens if the Unemployment Rate Goes Back Down?
If the twelve-month average unemployment rate drops to 5.1% or below, the maximum benefit duration would return to 26 weeks—but this only applies to new claims filed after that date. It will not impact current claims that are already eligible for 30 weeks.
Does This Change the Weekly Benefit Amount?
No. The increase in the number of weeks does not change the weekly benefit amount. The formula used to calculate a claimant’s weekly payment remains the same under Massachusetts law.
What HR Needs to Know
This change doesn’t require updates to your internal HR policies or employee handbooks, but it’s important to:
- Stay informed so you can share accurate information with impacted employees.
- Remind departing employees to watch for updates from DUA.
Additional Resources
For full details, FAQs, and updates about this change, visit the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA): mass.gov/dua