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THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS BROKEN! They make it impossible to reach anyone and then wonder why people get frustrated. Six weeks for a simple employer verification is RIDICULOUS. I've been fighting NYS Department of Labor for months over my claim and the degree to which they make everything complicated is just insane.
Check your online account to see if there are any documents you need to upload. Sometimes the system shows pending employer response when it's actually waiting for additional verification from you. Also make sure your contact information is current in case they're trying to reach you.
I went through this same thing last year! What worked for me was creating a 'Professional Development' section on my resume that included any courses, certifications, or skills I worked on during unemployment. You can also list relevant volunteer work or consulting projects. The goal is to show you weren't just sitting around - you were investing in your career growth.
ugh the whole system is so frustrating. they make you jump through hoops with the job search requirements but then you have to worry about explaining why you're unemployed in the first place. it's like a catch-22
If you're having trouble reaching the NYS Department of Labor by phone for specific questions, I recently discovered Claimyr (claimyr.com) which helps you get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Really helpful when you need to speak to someone about your specific situation instead of waiting on hold for hours.
Just want to add that if you were laid off vs fired, it makes a big difference for eligibility. Layoffs are usually straightforward, but if you were terminated for cause you might face a disqualification period. Also, if you have any severance pay, that could affect when your benefits start.
If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to ask about this directly, I had success using a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me reach an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Really helped when I needed to clarify my eligibility status and couldn't get through the regular phone lines.
Just make sure you understand the 'able and available' requirement for unemployment. If workers comp has you listed as unable to work, that could disqualify you from UI benefits. But if you're cleared for modified duties and your employer can't accommodate that, you should be fine. Document everything from your doctor and employer about your work restrictions and their inability to provide suitable work.
Kendrick Webb
just to add - u also need to register with the NY job search website i think its called jobs.labor.ny.gov or something like that. its part of the requirements now
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Axel Bourke
•Yes, you're thinking of the NYS Department of Labor Jobs Portal. Registration there is required as part of your work search activities, and it counts as one of your three weekly job search requirements.
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Hattie Carson
The whole process is honestly a nightmare. I've been dealing with NYS Department of Labor for months and they make everything so complicated. But basically: file initial claim online, wait for monetary determination letter, start filing weekly claims, do your job searches, and pray nothing goes wrong because good luck reaching anyone if it does. The system is broken but you have to work within it.
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Destiny Bryant
•I hear you on the frustration! Going through this myself right now and it's definitely overwhelming at first.
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