State Benefit, Service Program Expanded
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced the expansion of a state program that helps unemployment insurance recipients start their own businesses.
Recipients of unemployment insurance benefits generally must demonstrate that they are actively seeking work to be eligible for assistance. Under New York”s Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEAP), unemployed New Yorkers interested in launching their own businesses, rather than seeking other employment opportunities, are eligible to receive unemployment insurance benefits and entrepreneurial training while they work full-time to start their own businesses.
“Small businesses are the fuel that makes New York’s economic engine run,” Cuomo said. “Under the Self- Employment Assistance Program, the state has worked successfully with unemployed New Yorkers with an entrepreneurial spirit to give them the resources they need to launch their own businesses. The program is a win-win, giving the unemployed a better shot at reaching for the American dream, while spurring the start of new small businesses in communities across the state.”
Previously, an unemployment insurance beneficiary was only eligible to participate in SEAP during the first 26 weeks of receiving unemployment benefits. The governor’s action extends eligibility for the program to those that have passed the 26 week mark, and are receiving Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC).
To enroll in the program, participants must have received at least 13 weeks of regular unemployment benefits or have 13 weeks of EUC remaining. Participants also must develop a business strategy, attend 20 hours of entrepreneurial training, meet with a business counselor at least twice and work full-time on starting their businesses.
“SEAP graduates are leading the way as New York expands and creates new businesses across the State,” said State Labor Commissioner Peter M. Rivera. “I’m very pleased that the Labor Department is able to make this program available to more unemployed, ambitious New Yorkers.”
In 2012, 586 unemployment insurance claimants participated in the SEAP, of which an estimated 363 started their own businesses.
SEAP graduates from across the state have benefitted from the program.
For example, Rhonda Feinman owns and operates Rhonda Feinman Custom Frames Inc. in Woodside. She started her business through the SEAP in 2001 and now employs 17 people. She just purchased a building to accommodate her growing business.
“Everyone involved was really helpful,” she said. “It made navigat- ing the business start-up process easier, rather than just floundering through it. The process laid out by the SEAP forces you to find things out in the right order, and points you in the right direction. The best part was the educational requirements, classes and seminars.”
Entrepreneurs can learn more about the SEAP by calling the State Labor Department at 1-888-4- NYSDOL (888-469-7365).
