The Resilient Dollar

In 2025, Massachusetts’s regular unemployment benefits are provided for up to 26 weeks in a benefit year, although extensions may be available during periods of high unemployment or via federal emergency programs.

• A benefit year lasts for 52 weeks from the date of your initial claim.
  
• Once you’ve received your maximum benefits or reached the end of your benefit year, you cannot receive additional payments under that claim.
  
• To receive further assistance, you must either requalify by working and earning wages or apply for an extension if available.
  

Yes—But Only If You Requalify or Programs Are Extended

You can refile for unemployment in Massachusetts after your benefits run out, but only if you meet specific requalification requirements. These include:

• Completing a full benefit year
  
• Earning sufficient wages in new employment
  
• Losing your job through no fault of your own again
  
• Meeting all other UI eligibility criteria

If you haven’t worked since your previous claim, you will likely not be eligible to file a new claim until you do so.

To requalify for UI benefits in 2025, the Massachusetts DUA requires claimants to meet the following:

• Worked in covered employment (W-2 jobs) and received wages during or after the end of the last benefit year
  
• Earned at least 30 times the weekly benefit amount (WBA) of your prior claim. For example, if your weekly benefit amount (WBA) from your last claim was $400, then 30 x $400 = $12,000. You must have earned at least $12,000 from working after your last claim to qualify for a new one.
  
• Separated from your new employment through no fault of your own
  
• Actively seeking employment

If these requirements are met, you may be eligible to file a new initial claim.

Work Search Requirements

To qualify for any unemployment compensation in MA in 2025, you must:

• Actively search for work
  
• Document your job search activities
  
• Be available and able to accept suitable work

Part-Time Work

If you work part-time, you may still qualify for partial benefits, depending on your earnings. Report all wages accurately when certifying.

Self-Employment or Gig Work

Income from self-employment or gig work typically disqualifies you unless new federal provisions expand UI coverage. Always consult the DUA before filing under these circumstances.

You should only refile:

• After your benefit year ends
  
• After you have earned qualifying wages from new employment
  
• After you are separated again through no fault of your own

You cannot simply restart benefits just because you’re still unemployed. The law requires requalification unless extended benefits are officially announced.

In 2025, Massachusetts residents can refile for unemployment after benefits expire. This is possible only if they meet requalification rules. New legislative extensions can also allow refiling. If your benefits have run out, and you haven’t yet returned to work, we strongly encourage you to seek job placement assistance. You should also explore needs-based benefits. Stay proactive in your job search.

Always monitor the Massachusetts DUA website for the most current information and updates on benefit programs.

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