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just remember that unemployment insurance is basically insurance for employees that employers pay into. it's designed to help people when they lose their jobs through no fault of their own. the cost to employers is part of doing business and helps maintain economic stability
One thing to keep in mind - if your company is new or has limited history with NYS Department of Labor, you might be on a standard rate rather than an experience-based rate initially. The experience rating kicks in once you have enough history for them to calculate it properly.
We've been in business for about 4 years now, so I think we're past that initial period. I'll check our recent statements to see what our current rate structure looks like.
ugh the whole system is so confusing though! I got laid off 6 months ago and it took FOREVER to actually talk to someone at NYS Department of Labor. kept getting busy signals and my claim got stuck in adjudication for weeks. really hope you have better luck than I did!!
I had the same problem trying to reach NYS Department of Labor by phone. Ended up using Claimyr to get through to an actual agent - they have this system that calls for you and gets you connected. Check out claimyr.com, they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Way easier than spending hours on hold.
Never heard of that but honestly anything is better than the endless busy signals!
The key thing is to file immediately and be completely honest about everything. Even if your claim goes into adjudication, which sometimes happens with layoffs, you'll eventually get approved and receive back pay for all the weeks you were eligible. Keep filing your weekly claims even during adjudication.
Don't forget that your benefits might be subject to taxes too! I didn't realize that when I first started collecting and it was a surprise at tax time. You can choose to have taxes withheld from your weekly payments through your my.ny.gov account settings.
Same boat here! Got my approval but the paperwork is like reading hieroglyphics. Why can't they just send you a simple letter that says 'You get $X per week for Y weeks' instead of all this legal jargon??
I know it's frustrating, but the detailed breakdown is actually helpful once you understand it. It shows your base period wages, benefit year dates, and maximum benefit amount available. Keep that letter safe - you'll need it if there are ever any issues with your claim.
I've heard they're super backed up because of all the fraud cases they're dealing with. Doesn't make the wait any easier tho 😑
Yeah, I read about that too. Apparently, they're implementing new verification processes which is slowing everything down.
Pro tip: if u can, apply for other assistance programs while u wait. Food banks, rental assistance, etc. Every little bit helps when ur in limbo
This! 💯 I started using my local food bank and it's been a lifesaver. Don't be too proud to ask for help, y'all.
Julia Hall
The whole system is designed to wear you down mentally. Between the weekly certifications, the job search requirements, and the constant fear that one mistake will mess up your benefits - it's psychological warfare honestly.
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Arjun Patel
•That's a bit dramatic don't you think? I mean yes it's stressful but they have procedures for a reason...
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Julia Hall
•Tell that to someone who's been waiting in adjudication for 2 months with no income. The stress is real and it's by design.
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Jade Lopez
I started going for walks every morning when I do my job searches online. Having some kind of routine helped me feel more in control of the situation. Also downloaded a meditation app because the uncertainty was killing me.
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Tony Brooks
•That's smart! Exercise definitely helps with stress hormones.
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