
New York Unemployment
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Just got my NY unemployment claim denied because I 'didn't earn enough in my base period.' Are they serious right now?? How can they expect people to meet these income thresholds when so many of us had our hours cut or couldn't find steady work? I was working part-time for most of 2024 after my previous employer reduced my hours, then I got laid off completely last month. The denial letter says I needed to earn at least $3,400 in my high quarter, but I only made about $2,900. This system feels rigged against people who are already struggling! Has anyone successfully appealed a denial based on not meeting the earnings requirement? Or is there some other type of assistance I should apply for instead?
Been out of work since March 9th, 2025. My NY unemployment case went into investigation and I've only been able to speak to a representative ONE time this whole time based on a tip from here (calling on Thursday between 10-12) but I haven't had any luck since. I called the governor's office per some posts on here as well but I never get connected with someone it always prompts me to leave a message which I have done 3 times now. Any help would be appreciated? Anyone else waiting on a determination from investigation? How long did it take for them to get back to you? I'm getting desperate since my savings are almost gone and no one can tell me whether I'll even get benefits.
i got denied after waiting 7 weeks. applying for a hearing now but thats another 2-3 month wait they said. this system is designed to make ppl give up istg
That's my biggest fear right now - waiting all this time just to get denied. Did they give you a specific reason?
TIP: Call the TTY/TDD line instead of the regular number. It's 1-888-783-1370. Sometimes the wait is shorter there and they can still help regular claims. That's how I finally got through after two weeks of constant calling. The representative was able to see notes on my account and told me exactly what was holding things up.
I never thought of trying the TTY line. Is that ethical though? Isn't it meant for people with hearing impairments?
I lost my job in early 2025 but didn't file for unemployment right away because I thought I'd find something quickly. It's now August and I'm still looking with no success. If I apply for NY unemployment after September 5, will I still be eligible even though I haven't earned any income this year? I'm confused about the base period calculations and if there's a deadline for applying after job loss. Thanks for any help!
Here's my advice after helping many people with NY unemployment claims:\n\n1. Apply immediately - don't wait until September\n2. When asked why you delayed filing, be honest that you thought you'd find work quickly\n3. Start documenting your work search activities going forward (3 per week minimum)\n4. Try to gather evidence of past job search efforts if possible\n5. Be prepared for possible follow-up questions about your gap in filing\n\nBased on your work history (all of 2024 and January 2025), you should meet the wage requirements if you had standard employment with regular wages.
I moved to the US as a permanent resident in January 2025 and started working right away. But I lost my job at the end of March when our company downsized. When I applied for NY unemployment, they're now asking for proof of employment that I don't have! I only worked for 3 months before losing my job. My employer paid me in cash for the first month while my paperwork was processing, and I don't have many pay stubs yet. DOL is asking for all these documents I just don't have as a new resident. Has anyone dealt with this situation? What can I use as proof when I have limited documentation? I'm really stressing out because I need this income to survive.
Just got the decision today! They approved my claim based on the alternative documentation I provided! The agent I spoke with really helped guide me on exactly what to submit and how to organize it. I'm so relieved. The backpay should hit my account next week. Thanks everyone for all your help and advice!
I just submitted my docs for NY unemployment proof of employment verification. I took a picture of my W2 with my tablet but then got nervous they wouldn't accept it because maybe the quality wasn't good enough? So I went ahead and made an actual digital scan and submitted that too. Now I'm wondering if sending two versions of the same document will cause problems or confusion with my claim? Has anyone done something similar? Will they just use whichever version is clearer or will this somehow flag my account for review? I'm probably overthinking this but really can't afford any delays right now.
Just wanted to update - my claim was approved! Looks like sending both the photo and scan wasn't an issue at all. Thanks everyone for helping calm my nerves!
Quick question to piggyback on this thread - do they accept digital W2s from tax prep services? I don't have a paper copy of mine anymore...
CosmicCaptain
I saw someone mention Safety Net Assistance - just a heads up that it has very strict asset limits. They check your bank accounts and everything. Unemployment doesn't have asset limits, just earnings requirements, which is why it's worth fighting for if you're close to qualifying.
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Jamal Brown
AuthorThanks for the warning. I do have some savings I've been trying not to touch, so that might be an issue with Safety Net. Sounds like trying to get my unemployment claim reconsidered is the best first step.
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Giovanni Rossi
Any update? Were you able to get through to anyone about recalculating your base period?
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Jamal Brown
AuthorYes! Finally got through yesterday and requested both the Alternate Base Period and adding my out-of-state wages. The agent said it looks like I should qualify with those adjustments! They're processing the recalculation now and I should hear back within 10 days. Fingers crossed!
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