Applying for the SEAP

You must watch the SEAP orientation videos (below) before you apply to the SEAP. After you have completed the orientation videos, log in to your NY.gov account and click on the "Self-Employment Assistance Program" link under "Employment Services." 

See the SEAP log in instructions.

Before you complete the video orientation, here are some things about SEAP to consider:

• SEAP requires that you have enough time available to complete all necessary forms and training. Therefore, you must be eligible for at least 13 more weeks of Unemployment Insurance benefits to participate in the SEAP at the time that you are accepted into the program. 
• You must decide exactly what type of business you want to start before you apply to the SEAP. The program does not allow time to explore business ideas -- only to develop an existing idea. 
• The SEAP requires you to take at least 20 hours of entrepreneurial training. Contact local organizations such as SCORE, the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) or the Small Business Administration (SBA) to locate entrepreneurial workshops in your area. More information about these organizations will be provided during the SEAP orientation. 
• You must find and meet with a business counselor of your choice at least twice and submit benchmark forms to the Department of Labor to show the progress of your start-up activities. You can contact local organizations such as SCORE and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to find a business counselor. These organizations provide free, one-on-one counseling to individuals interested in starting a business. You can also use a qualified expert in the type of business you intend to start. The Department of Labor does not provide business counselors. 
• If you are accepted into the SEAP, you will only be eligible for up to a combined total of 26 weeks of Unemployment Insurance and SEAP benefits during your benefit year. 
• Skills you already have should match those needed to operate the business type you choose. 
• The SEAP does not provide start-up funds for your business.

The SEAP requires you to take at least 20 hours of entrepreneurial training and have at least two meetings with a business counselor. See our Resources for Entrepreneurs for a list of organizations that can provide training and other helpful assistance as you work on your business.

You are required to complete Parts 1 and 2 of the SEAP video orientation before you apply to the program. When you apply to the SEAP, you must certify that you viewed these videos in their entirety: 

Part 1: Learn about the SEAP, the program requirements, and SEAP eligibility.

Part 2: Listen to Geri Kavanah, a business counselor from the New York State Small Business Development Center, discuss the realities of opening a business.