


Ask the community...
If you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor to ask about your specific situation, I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Really helped when I was stuck in adjudication limbo.
Also remember you need to have worked enough hours and earned enough wages in your base period. For 2025 it's pretty specific requirements. And once you start collecting you HAVE to do the job search activities they require or they'll cut you off.
The waiting is the worst part honestly. I remember when I filed last year it felt like forever but looking back it was only about 18 days total. Just make sure you keep doing your weekly certifications even if you haven't gotten paid yet - that's really important or it can delay everything even more.
Don't count on getting anything quickly from NYS Department of Labor. The whole system is a joke and they make you jump through a million hoops just to get what you're entitled to. I've been waiting 3 weeks and still nothing.
Both programs also have appeals processes if your claim gets denied. With UI you can appeal to NYS Department of Labor if they disqualify you, and with workers comp you can appeal through the Workers Compensation Board. The appeal procedures are different but both give you a chance to challenge negative decisions.
honestly the whole system is confusing... i never understood why we have so many different programs for when people cant work. seems like they could just have one program that covers everything
depends on ur situation tbh... if theres any red flags it could take months. but most ppl get approved pretty quick if everything checks out
Oh this brings back memories! When I was laid off from my teaching job a few years ago, it took forever to get approved because they had to verify my work history or something. But my friend who got laid off from Target got approved super fast. I think it just depends on your specific case and how busy they are.
NeonNinja
oh man these hearings are stressful!! i was so nervous during mine i could barely speak. just remember the judge is there to listen to both sides fairly. practice what youre going to say beforehand so you dont freeze up like i did
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Anastasia Popov
Whatever you do, don't let them twist your words. I went through this whole mess last year and my former employer tried to make it sound like I was being difficult when really they were violating labor laws. Stick to your timeline and don't let them derail the conversation. The burden is on them to prove misconduct or voluntary quit - if they can't do that convincingly, you should win the appeal.
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