New York Unemployment

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What time does NYS Department of Labor deposit unemployment money into bank accounts?

I'm expecting my weekly unemployment payment from NYS Department of Labor today but it's already 2pm and nothing's shown up in my checking account yet. Does anyone know what time they usually deposit the money? My bank says they don't hold deposits so it should show up as soon as they send it. Getting worried something went wrong with my claim.

Usually Tuesday mornings but I've had it show up as late as Wednesday before when there were system issues. Don't panic yet!

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I've been on unemployment for about 6 months now and I've noticed the timing can vary a bit. Most weeks it hits my account between 6-8 AM on Tuesday, but I've had it come as late as 10 AM sometimes. Since you certified Sunday night, I'd give it until end of business today before worrying. Also double-check that your direct deposit info hasn't changed in your account - sometimes bank mergers or account updates can cause delays even if you didn't change anything on your end.

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NYS Department of Labor job search documentation - how to prove job search for unemployment weekly claims?

I've been filing my weekly claims for about 6 weeks now and I'm getting nervous about the job search requirement. I know I need to do 3 job search activities per week but I'm not sure what counts as proper documentation. I've been applying to jobs online and saving screenshots of the confirmation pages, but is that enough? Do I need to keep a log somewhere specific? I heard some people got questioned about their job search activities during their claim review. What exactly does NYS Department of Labor accept as proof and how should I be organizing this stuff?

The whole system is ridiculous honestly. They make us jump through all these hoops but half the job postings are fake anyway and companies don't even respond to applications anymore. But yeah you gotta play their game so keep everything documented.

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Great advice from everyone here! I'd also recommend creating a backup system for your documentation. I keep both digital copies (Google Drive folder) and print out important stuff monthly just in case. One thing I learned the hard way - when you apply through job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn, also grab a screenshot of the actual job posting itself, not just the confirmation page. Sometimes those postings get taken down and if DOL wants to verify the job actually existed, you'll have proof. Also, if you do phone inquiries, jot down the date, time, and who you spoke with (even if it's just a receptionist). Those count as job contacts too and it shows you're being proactive beyond just online applications.

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Can you collect unemployment if you are fired for cause - NYS Department of Labor eligibility?

My employer terminated me last month citing 'misconduct' after I was late to work several times due to childcare issues. They're claiming it was for cause and I'm worried this means I can't get unemployment benefits. Has anyone dealt with NYS Department of Labor when fired for cause? I really need these benefits to support my family while I look for work. The termination letter mentions attendance policy violations but I tried to communicate with my supervisor about the situation.

THE SYSTEM IS RIGGED! They always side with employers initially. I was fired for 'attitude problems' which is completely subjective but still had to go through months of appeals. Document EVERYTHING and don't trust what your employer tells you about your eligibility.

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That's really frustrating but every case is different. The good news is that NYS Department of Labor does approve many claims even when employers contest them.

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I went through this exact situation with NYS Department of Labor about two years ago. Was terminated for "excessive tardiness" but it was due to my elderly mother's medical appointments that I had to coordinate. The key thing is to file your claim immediately - don't wait! When they do the phone interview (usually within 2-3 weeks), be completely honest about the childcare situation and emphasize that you tried to work with your employer. I brought up how I attempted to communicate and find solutions. They ended up approving my claim because tardiness due to legitimate family care responsibilities isn't considered willful misconduct under NY law. The process took about 4 weeks total, but I got back pay for all the weeks I was eligible. Stay persistent and keep documenting everything!

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Why would i be denied unemployment benefits in NY - need to understand common reasons

Just got a letter saying my unemployment claim was denied and I'm completely confused about why this happened. I worked at a retail store for 8 months before they let me go last month, and I thought I qualified for benefits. The denial letter mentions something about 'not meeting eligibility requirements' but doesn't really explain what that means. I filled out everything on the my.ny.gov website and thought I did it right. Can someone explain what the most common reasons are for getting denied? I'm worried I messed something up on my application.

Hey Ella, I went through something similar when I first applied. The A02 code definitely means insufficient wage credits like others mentioned. One thing that helped me was requesting a "wage transcript" from NYS DOL to see exactly what wages they have on record for your base period quarters. Sometimes employers don't report wages correctly or there are delays in reporting. You can request this through your NY.gov account. Also, make sure to check if you're eligible for the alternate base period - it uses the most recent 4 quarters instead of the standard base period, which might work better if you started your job in March 2024. Don't give up, there are often options even after an initial denial!

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@Mateo Warren That s'exactly the info I needed - thanks! So if I filed in November 2024, the alternate base period would look at Q3 2023, Q4 2023, Q1 2024, and Q2 2024, which would definitely capture more of my wages from the retail job that started in March. I m'going to file the appeal and specifically ask them to consider the alternate base period. Really appreciate everyone s'help figuring this out!

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Just to add to what Mateo said - when you request the alternate base period, make sure you have documentation of all your wages ready. Since you worked from March to November 2024, the alternate base period would definitely capture more of your earning quarters compared to the standard base period. I'd also suggest keeping track of exactly when you file the appeal since the 30-day deadline is strict. You can file the appeal online through your NY.gov account or by mail, but online is usually faster. Good luck!

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Just wanted to jump in as someone who recently went through the unemployment appeals process in NY - this thread is absolutely incredible for breaking down what can be such a confusing and stressful situation! I was denied initially with a different code (A11 - voluntary quit), but the appeal process advice here is spot on regardless of the denial reason. A few additional tips from my experience: 1) When you file your appeal, consider sending it both online through your NY.gov account AND by certified mail to have a paper trail, 2) If you have any pay stubs or W-2s that show wages during your base period, include copies with your appeal as supporting documentation, and 3) Don't be afraid to mention any special circumstances in your appeal letter (like if you were a new worker, had gaps in employment due to health issues, etc.). The hearing officers are actually pretty understanding when you explain your situation clearly. Also want to echo what others said about not giving up - I know several people who were initially denied but got approved after appeal. The system definitely has flaws, but there are people working within it who want to help eligible claimants get their benefits. Ella, you've got this!

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Fastest ways to contact NY unemployment - phone alternatives that actually work?

I've been trying to reach the NY unemployment office for TWO WEEKS straight about a payment issue on my claim. I've called the main number literally 50+ times and either get disconnected or that automated message saying they're experiencing high call volume. I've tried calling right when they open, during lunch, and right before closing. Still nothing! I sent three messages through the online portal but haven't gotten any response. Does anyone know if there's a direct number or ACTUAL working way to get through to a real person? My rent is due next week and I'm getting desperate.

UPDATE: I got through!! Used the auxiliary number trick at 7:57am exactly like @practical_solution suggested. Was on hold for about 35 minutes but finally spoke to someone. Turns out there was an "identity verification pending" flag on my account that no one told me about! The agent was able to clear it and said my payments should process within 3 business days. For anyone else struggling to get through, I tried all these methods and here's what worked best for me in order: 1. Auxiliary number (888-581-5812) at 7:57am exactly 2. Claimyr service when I was truly desperate 3. Sending a VERY detailed message through the portal (still haven't heard back though) Thanks everyone for your help! What a relief to finally get this fixed.

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glad it worked out! just wait until you have another problem and have to do this all over again lol... the system is such a joke

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Great to hear you got through! One more tip: now that you've spoken with someone, ask for their direct extension if you need follow-up help. Many agents will provide this if you've established a case with them, allowing you to bypass the main queue if there are any issues with your payments.

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This is such a helpful thread! I'm bookmarking this for future reference. I've been lucky so far with my unemployment claim, but hearing all these stories makes me realize how broken the system really is. It's ridiculous that people have to resort to third-party services or calling at the exact right second just to get basic help with their benefits. @Hunter Edmunds so glad you finally got through and got your issue resolved! The fact that there was an identity verification flag that nobody told you about is exactly the kind of bureaucratic nightmare that makes this whole process so frustrating.

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