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The system is so messed up. I got denied because they said I didn't do enough job searches even though I applied to like 20 places. They want you to jump through all these hoops and then still find reasons to deny you.
wait I thought if you quit you automatically can't get unemployment? I've been at a terrible job for months because I thought I'd lose benefits
No, that's a common misconception. You can quit and still get benefits if you have 'good cause' - things like unsafe working conditions, significant changes to your job duties or pay, harassment, or other compelling reasons. But you have to be able to prove it and show you tried to resolve the situation first.
The whole NYS Department of Labor system is a JOKE. They make you jump through hoops for weeks while you're trying to pay bills and survive. Two to three weeks is ridiculous when people need money immediately after losing their job. Other states process claims much faster but NY seems to enjoy making people suffer.
Just want to add that if you had any separation issues like being fired or quitting, that's when it takes longer because they have to do an adjudication review. Also make sure your employer responded to their inquiry - sometimes delays happen because the employer doesn't send back their paperwork to NYS Department of Labor on time.
Kayla Morgan
The NYS Department of Labor system has gotten SO much better since the pandemic mess. Back then it was a nightmare but now the online portal is actually user-friendly. My only advice is don't wait - file as soon as possible because there's a waiting week before benefits start anyway. And definitely start documenting your job search activities right away even if you haven't been approved yet.
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James Maki
Just be really careful about answering the questions accurately, especially about why you're unemployed. If you put anything that suggests you quit or were fired for misconduct, it can delay or deny your claim. Since you said you were laid off, you should be fine, but double-check that your employer coded it correctly as a layoff and not a termination.
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