I went through this exact same situation 6 months ago - employer claimed misconduct when it was really downsizing. Key things that helped me: Never use emotional language like "unfair" or "they had it out for me" even if it feels true. Stick to neutral terms like "position eliminated" or "workforce reduction." If they ask about your relationship with your supervisor, keep it professional - "we had a normal working relationship" rather than getting into any personality conflicts. Also, if you have any documentation about the budget cuts (emails, company announcements, etc.) make sure to mention you have those available. The interviewer told me later that having concrete evidence really strengthened my case. You've got this!

One thing that really helped me was practicing beforehand with a friend or family member. Have them ask you the tough questions so you can rehearse staying calm and factual. Also, remember that the interviewer's job is to gather information - they're not trying to trick you, even though it might feel that way. If you genuinely were laid off due to budget cuts and have documentation to back it up, focus on that truth. Don't let your former employer's false misconduct claim make you second-guess what actually happened. Stay confident in your version of events because the truth is on your side.

Just went through this exact situation 6 months ago and wanted to add my experience to this incredibly helpful thread! Got laid off in April with lump sum severance through July, and like everyone else is saying - filing immediately was absolutely the right call. A few things that really helped me that I haven't seen mentioned yet: 1. When you're filling out the severance section, there's actually a dropdown where you can select "lump sum payment" vs "periodic payments" - make sure you choose the right one as it affects how they process your weekly allocations. 2. Keep a copy of your severance agreement/letter handy during the application. They ask for specific dates and amounts, and having the exact wording from your employer helps ensure consistency. 3. During my severance period, I used the time to do some freelance work. Just a heads up - you'll need to report ANY income during weekly certifications, including small freelance amounts. It doesn't disqualify you, but be transparent about everything. The NY system really is set up to handle these scenarios - I was pleasantly surprised how smoothly it went once I got past the initial application processing (which did take about 5 weeks). My benefits started the first week after my severance ended with no gaps or issues. To everyone in similar boats - stop second-guessing and file today. This thread has given you better guidance than you'll get anywhere else!

I'm new to this community and just want to say WOW - this thread has been more helpful than anything I found on the official DOL website! I'm in a similar situation (laid off last week with severance through February) and was completely lost about timing. The consistency of advice here is remarkable - everyone who's actually been through this says file immediately, no exceptions. The practical tips are gold too - taking screenshots, calling at 8 AM, setting Sunday certification reminders, having all documentation ready before starting. What really stands out is how the NY system is apparently designed for lump sum severance situations, with specific sections and automatic calculations. That's so reassuring to know! To the original poster and others - you're getting expert-level guidance from people who've walked this exact path. Don't overthink it anymore, just file today. This community has given you everything you need to succeed! Thanks to everyone for sharing such detailed, helpful experiences. Communities like this are exactly what people need when navigating confusing bureaucratic systems!

I'm dealing with this exact same issue right now! Started 3 days ago and it's driving me crazy. I tried all the browser fixes everyone mentioned but nothing worked. What finally got me through was using my phone's mobile browser instead of my computer - for some reason the mobile site accepted my SSN when the desktop version wouldn't. Also found out from a friend who works in IT that sometimes these government systems have issues with certain internet providers or geographic regions during peak usage times. Try switching to your phone's cellular data instead of wifi if you haven't already. Really hoping NYS Department of Labor fixes these technical problems soon because this is affecting way too many people.

I'm experiencing the same SSN rejection issue as of this morning! After reading through all these suggestions, I wanted to share what's been working for me so far. The mobile browser trick that @Omar Fawaz mentioned was a game changer - I was able to get past the SSN error using my phone's Safari browser when Chrome on my laptop kept failing. Also, I noticed that if you get the error message, don't immediately try again - wait about 10-15 minutes between attempts because I think the system temporarily locks you out after failed submissions. For anyone still struggling, try these steps in order: 1) Clear all browser data and cookies 2) Switch to mobile device with cellular data 3) Try during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) 4) Use incognito/private mode. If none of that works, definitely use that Claimyr service @Asher Levin mentioned - seems like it's the only reliable way to actually talk to someone at NYS Department of Labor these days. This whole situation is unacceptable though - people shouldn't have to jump through hoops just to access their unemployment benefits.

THE SYSTEM IS SO UNFAIR!! I got denied for missing work when I had COVID symptoms and my employer told me not to come in but then fired me anyway. NYS Department of Labor sided with the employer of course. These adjudicators don't care about workers at all.

I work for a local advocacy organization and we see cases like this regularly. The key thing to understand is that NYS DOL distinguishes between "misconduct" and circumstances beyond your control. Missing work due to mental health crises, family emergencies, or other compelling personal circumstances may not be considered disqualifying misconduct if you can document the situation. When you file your claim, be completely honest about what happened and why. If you have any medical records, therapy notes, or other documentation showing you were dealing with legitimate personal issues during that time, gather those now. Even if you're initially denied, the appeals process gives you a real chance to present your case with proper documentation. Don't let fear of denial stop you from filing - you've paid into this system and deserve a fair review of your situation.

File right away! My sister's company closed and she waited thinking she needed to figure everything out first. Big mistake - you can't get benefits for weeks you don't file even if you're eligible.

So sorry to hear about your company closure - that's really stressful! I just wanted to add that when you file your claim, make sure to keep copies of everything your employer gives you about the closure (any letters, emails, final paystubs, etc.). Even though the company won't be around to respond to requests, having this documentation can help speed up your claim processing. Also, if your company is offering any severance or paying out vacation time, that might affect when your benefits start, so be sure to report those payments accurately. You've got this - unemployment benefits exist exactly for situations like yours!