As Rapture stated, this is totally normal. All states require re-certification of the existing claim or issuance of a new claim after 12 months of claiming benefits. Doing this online always backfires, even though it sure "looks like" it's an option on the (NJ) UI website. A claimant must call, answer a few questions, and the determination of continuing on the old claim or starting a new claim is made right there.
When claiming online in NJ after your BYE date, the following screen appears:
Quote:
New Jersey Internet Application for
Continued Weekly Unemployment Benefits
Your certification cannot be completed online as your benefit year has expired.
Please call the Reemployment Call Center at (856) 507-2340, (732) 761-2020 or (201) 601-4100.
Press "2" to speak to an agent to see if you qualify for a new claim.
For more information, please refer to the following link:
Department of Labor and Workforce Development | Frequently Asked Questions
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This means you should run, not walk to the phone and get ready for the possibility that you won't be able to get through on the first day you try to call. Keep hitting that redial button!