The whole system is ridiculous if you ask me. 26 weeks isn't enough time to find a decent job in this economy, especially if you're trying to find something that actually pays a living wage instead of just taking the first minimum wage job that comes along!

Just wanted to add that if you exhaust your regular 26 weeks of unemployment benefits, you might be eligible for extended benefits during times of high unemployment, though this depends on economic conditions and federal programs that may be available. Also, make sure you're familiar with the online system at labor.ny.gov - it's much easier than trying to call. You can check your payment history, weekly claim status, and get most of your questions answered through their online portal. Good luck with your job search!

I've been on unemployment for about 3 months and learned this the hard way - always keep records! I create a simple Word document for each week with the date, company name, position title, how I applied (Indeed, company website, etc.), and I save confirmation emails in a separate folder. Also don't forget that things like updating your LinkedIn profile, attending virtual job fairs, or even informational interviews count as work search activities. The key is being able to prove you're making a genuine effort to find employment. Better to over-document than risk losing benefits later!

I've been through this process and want to emphasize how important it is to treat your job search documentation like a business record. I keep a detailed Excel spreadsheet with columns for date, company, position, application method, contact person, and follow-up actions. What really saved me during my audit was having screenshots of job postings and confirmation emails. Also, don't overlook networking activities - I counted LinkedIn messaging with recruiters, attending virtual career workshops, and even cold-calling companies about potential openings. The NYS DOL wants to see 3 meaningful work search activities per week, so quality matters more than quantity. Make sure each activity shows you're actively pursuing employment opportunities in your field or related areas.

One thing to keep in mind is that the 26 weeks is for regular unemployment benefits, but if there are any federal extensions available (like during economic downturns), you might be eligible for additional weeks beyond the standard 26. Also, make sure you understand the difference between your benefit year and your claim weeks - your benefit year lasts 52 weeks from when you first file, but you can only collect benefits for up to 26 of those weeks. If you find work and then lose it again within that same benefit year, you can potentially restart your claim as long as you haven't used up all 26 weeks yet.

@PixelPrincess Just wanted to add that it's really smart you're planning your finances early! One tip I learned during my unemployment period is to set up a budget assuming you'll only get the full 26 weeks and treat any work you find before then as a bonus. Also, don't forget that your unemployment benefits are taxable income - you can choose to have taxes withheld from each payment or pay them later, but it's something to factor into your financial planning. NYS takes out 10% for federal taxes and 3.5% for state taxes if you elect withholding. Good luck with your claim!

just went through this last month, got approved no problem. make sure you have your employer fill out the separation form correctly showing lack of work not misconduct or anything like that

I've been working seasonal construction for about 8 years now and can confirm that seasonal workers absolutely qualify for unemployment benefits in New York. The key thing is to make sure your employer properly documents the layoff as "lack of work" rather than any other reason. I usually file my claim the week I get laid off in December and have never had major issues getting approved. One tip - if you know approximately when you'll be called back to work, mention that in your claim but don't give a specific date unless your employer puts it in writing. The NYS DOL understands seasonal patterns in industries like construction, landscaping, and tourism. Just be honest about your situation and keep up with the weekly certifications!

I'm new to unemployment benefits too and this is really helpful info! I just submitted my first claim yesterday (Monday) so sounds like I should expect payment by Thursday or Friday at the latest. One thing I'm wondering about - do they send any kind of notification when the payment is processed or do you just have to keep checking your bank account? Also, is there a way to see payment history in the my.ny.gov portal?

I've been through this same situation! When I first started collecting unemployment in NY, I was so anxious about when the payments would actually show up. From my experience over the past 6 months, if you certify on Sunday, the money typically hits your account Tuesday or Wednesday. The key thing is to make sure you certify as early as possible - I always do mine Sunday evening right when it becomes available. Also, double-check that your direct deposit info is 100% correct in your my.ny.gov account because even a small typo can cause major delays. One time my payment was delayed by a week because I had an old routing number in there. Hope this helps ease your worry - the system does work once you get into the rhythm of it!