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If you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor to get more information about your hearing, I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me through to a real person. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Really helped me understand what documents I needed to gather before my tribunal hearing.
Just went through my tribunal hearing two weeks ago and won! The judge asked detailed questions about the circumstances of my separation. My employer didn't even show up to the hearing which helped my case. Make sure you speak clearly and stick to the facts. Don't get emotional even if you're frustrated. The decision came in the mail about 10 days later.
The whole system is a joke honestly. They make you jump through hoops for benefits you already paid into through payroll taxes. And don't get me started on the job search requirements - you have to apply to 3 jobs per week and keep detailed records or they'll cut you off.
Just to clarify the timeline: Week 1 is your waiting period (no payment), then if approved you'll receive benefits starting week 2. Maximum benefit period is 26 weeks. Your weekly benefit amount depends on your previous earnings, with a maximum of $504 per week in 2025. Make sure you're filing your weekly claims every Sunday and documenting your job search activities.
yeah you get paid but don't expect it to be much lol. i was making $18/hr and only got like $280 a week. better than nothing though and at least it's something while you look for another job. the whole process is pretty straightforward once you get started
Make sure you apply right away! The sooner you file your initial claim with NYS Department of Labor, the sooner your benefits can start. Even if you're not sure about eligibility, it's better to apply and let them determine it rather than waiting. The application is all online now and much easier than it used to be.
The job search requirements might get stricter though. When I was on unemployment a few years ago during a good economy, they were really strict about the 3 job contacts per week. Now with lower unemployment, the NYS Department of Labor might crack down more on people not actively looking. Make sure you're documenting everything properly in your job search log.
This is exactly what I was worried about! I've been having trouble reaching anyone at NYS Department of Labor to ask about my specific situation. The phone lines are always busy and I keep getting disconnected. Has anyone found a way to actually talk to someone? I tried calling for two weeks straight with no luck.
I had the same problem until someone told me about Claimyr. It's a service that calls the NYS Department of Labor for you and gets you connected to an actual agent. I was skeptical at first but it actually worked - got through in like 20 minutes when I couldn't get through for weeks on my own. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Check out claimyr.com if you're interested.
honestly the whole system is rigged anyway, they make it impossible to get help when you need it most. unemployment going down just means they'll find more excuses to deny claims
Aisha Mohammed
why is the system so messed up that you have to choose between eating and following the rules?? like if someone gets hurt they should be able to get help without jumping through hoops. the whole thing is designed to screw people over
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Ethan Campbell
•I feel this so much. The bureaucracy is insane.
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Yuki Watanabe
One thing to consider is whether your condition might improve enough to return to work. If there's a chance your back could get better with treatment, you might want to continue with unemployment while pursuing medical care. But if doctors are saying it's a permanent disability, then yes, you'll need to transition. Just document everything carefully and keep all medical records.
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