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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.
If you're having trouble reaching someone at NYS Department of Labor to discuss your employer account or experience rating, I had luck using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an actual person. They have this demo video (https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI) that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling and getting busy signals when I needed to clarify some claim details.
The standard timeline for NYS Department of Labor is typically 2-4 weeks for initial processing if there are no complications. Since you mentioned being laid off from a restaurant, that should be pretty straightforward - involuntary separation usually doesn't trigger additional review. Just make sure you're filing your weekly claims on time and meeting the job search requirements. You should receive a monetary determination letter first, then start getting payments if everything checks out.
Wait, am I supposed to be doing 3 job searches every single week?? I thought it was just when they asked for it during the weekly claim! This is so stressful, what if I haven't been doing enough and they find out? Can they make me pay back benefits??
Henrietta Beasley
good luck with the system... been waiting 6 weeks for my adjudication to clear and still nothing. the nys department of labor is a nightmare
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Nia Wilson
Just went through this process myself last month. The whole thing took about 6 weeks from filing to getting my first payment. Had to deal with identity verification which added extra time. Make sure you file your weekly claims on time every week even if your initial claim is still pending - you can't go back and file late weeks.
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NebulaNomad
•6 weeks?! how are people supposed to survive that long without income... this system is broken
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