I went through this exact situation last year after leaving a toxic workplace. Yes, your employer gets notified automatically - there's no way around it. The notice they receive includes basic info like your claim date and employment period, but not detailed reasons why you're claiming benefits. However, if they contest it (which they might if you quit), then the specifics come out during the hearing process. I'd recommend documenting everything you can about the hostile work environment before filing - save emails, texts, write down incidents with dates, get witness contact info if possible. The good news is that if you truly have good cause, NYS does recognize hostile work environment as valid grounds for quitting. Just be prepared for a potentially lengthy appeals process if your employer fights it.

Just wanted to add that if you're worried about your employer finding out, you should know that they'll receive the notification regardless of whether you were fired or quit. However, the initial notice doesn't include your personal reasons for filing - it's mainly for wage verification. The detailed circumstances only come up if they decide to contest your claim. I'd suggest filing sooner rather than later since there are time limits, and you can always appeal if they contest it. Also, keep in mind that even if the relationship ended badly, many employers don't bother contesting claims unless there was serious misconduct involved, since it takes time and resources on their end too.

I just went through this same exact situation a few months ago and I feel your pain! The confusion is totally understandable because the NY unemployment system does a terrible job explaining the difference between when your benefits run out versus when your benefit year ends. You're stuck until September unfortunately - you can't file a new claim until that full 12-month benefit year is over AND you need to have earned enough wages from new work during that time to qualify again. In the meantime, definitely apply for SNAP benefits immediately - the application was way easier than I expected and it helped SO much with groceries. Also check with 211 (dial 2-1-1) for local emergency assistance programs in your area. Some churches and community organizations have rent assistance funds too. I know it's scary when savings are running low, but there are resources out there to help bridge this gap. Don't give up on the job search either - I applied to probably 300+ positions before finally landing something. You've got this!

I went through this exact same situation about 8 months ago and it's incredibly frustrating! You're absolutely correct that you cannot file a new claim until your benefit year ends in September. The 26 weeks of benefits can be exhausted before your 12-month benefit year is over, which creates this awful gap period where you're left with no income. During my gap period, I applied for SNAP benefits (which was honestly a lifesaver), reached out to local food banks, and picked up some freelance bookkeeping work through Upwork and local small businesses. Since you're in accounting, you might want to check out temp agencies that specialize in finance/accounting - they often have short-term assignments that can help bridge the gap. Also look into the 599 training program that others mentioned if you're interested in learning new skills. I know it feels hopeless right now, but you'll get through this. Keep applying for jobs and don't be afraid to take something temporary while you search for your ideal position. The job market is tough but persistence really does pay off eventually!

I've been documenting my job searches in a simple Word document and it's worked fine during my claim reviews. Just include: date, company name, position title, how you applied (website, email, in-person), and contact info if available. Don't overthink it - NYS Department of Labor just wants to see you're making genuine efforts. Also, attending virtual job fairs and career webinars count toward your 3 weekly activities, which helped me when physical applications were slim. The key is consistency in your record-keeping format.

Just want to add that if you're using LinkedIn for job searching, make sure to document those applications too! I've been applying through LinkedIn Easy Apply and it definitely counts toward the 3 weekly requirements. I include the LinkedIn job posting URL in my log along with the standard info (company, position, date). Also, don't forget that updating your resume or LinkedIn profile can count as a job search activity - I learned this from a NYS Department of Labor rep. It's helpful when you're having a slow week with actual applications but still need to meet the requirement.

As someone who's worked in various school support roles, I can tell you that the "reasonable assurance" determination really varies case by case. What helped me was keeping detailed records of my work history - dates worked, hours, and any communication about future employment. For substitutes specifically, the fact that your work depends on unpredictable teacher absences works in your favor. When you apply, emphasize that substitute work is inherently uncertain and that summer months offer essentially zero opportunity for substitute positions since regular teachers aren't typically absent during break periods. Also, don't let the phone wait times discourage you from following up on your claim if needed - persistence is key with NYS Department of Labor.

I've been working as a substitute teacher for three years and finally figured out the system after getting denied twice. The key thing that helped me was understanding that as a per-diem substitute, you're in a fundamentally different position than contracted teachers. When you file, make sure to emphasize that you have NO guaranteed hours or income during summer - substitutes only work when regular teachers call out sick, and that obviously doesn't happen during summer break. I also recommend filing your claim immediately when school ends rather than waiting, because there can be delays in processing. One tip that really helped: when they ask about "reasonable assurance," be very specific that while the district may call you again in fall, there's absolutely no guarantee of how many days you'll work or if you'll work at all. That uncertainty is what distinguishes substitute positions from regular teacher contracts.

I'm so sorry this happened to you - what a frustrating situation to be in! I actually work in HR and see rescinded offers more often than you'd think, especially when companies face sudden budget constraints. The good news is that NYS Department of Labor definitely recognizes this as a valid reason for unemployment benefits. When you file, I'd recommend being very specific about the timeline and circumstances. Include details like when you received the offer, when you accepted, any onboarding activities you completed, and exactly when they rescinded it. The fact that you have written documentation of the entire process will really help your case. Also, don't worry about not filing initially - many people make that same decision when they think they have employment lined up. The important thing is filing now that your circumstances have changed through no fault of your own.

I just wanted to add my support and say don't let this situation discourage you from filing! I had a somewhat different but related experience where I accepted a job offer, gave notice at my current position, and then the new company had a hiring freeze before my start date. I was panicked about whether I'd qualify for unemployment since I had voluntarily left my previous job. But NYS Department of Labor was actually very understanding about the whole situation. They classified it as an involuntary separation since the job I left for was no longer available through no fault of my own. The key is being completely honest and thorough in your application. Your situation with the rescinded offer is even more straightforward since you were already unemployed when they pulled the offer. You're absolutely entitled to those benefits - that's exactly what the system is there for!