If you’re reading this at home, surfing the Internet in search of a job, and worried about your unemployment benefits running out (or maybe they already have run out)–you may have just received some good news.



New Mexico just signed an agreement with the federal government that will extend unemployment insurance benefits to "eligible individuals" for up to 13 extra weeks.



“Job seekers and their families are being put in a difficult position as they face a tightening job market while paying more than ever for gas, food and other goods,” Governor Richardson said in a press release. “With this extension we can offer some relief by helping them bridge the widening financial gap as they search for work.”



If you’re eligible, the release says, the NM Department of Workforce Solutions will be sending you a letter about how to "re-engage" your benefits. You can see a list of eligibility requirements though on the official notice.



And if mail proves a problem for you, there’s a phone number that may be able to help you out starting today. The number is (505) 841-4000, and the call center is keeping extended hours through July 25:





Call Center Hours:



Monday – Thursday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.



Friday 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.



Saturday, July 12 & 19 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.



Sunday, July 13 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.