ugh the whole unemployment system is such a mess, they make everything so complicated and stressful when people are already struggling

The protest period can definitely be nerve-wracking, but try not to stress too much about it. In my experience, most employers don't actually contest claims unless there was serious misconduct involved. Since you mentioned this is about a standard unemployment filing, you'll likely be fine. Just make sure you keep filing your weekly certifications even during the protest period - that way if you're approved, you won't miss out on any benefits. The whole process usually takes 2-3 weeks total with NYS DOL.

Just wanted to add that you should definitely file your initial claim online through the NY DOL website rather than trying to call - the online system is much more reliable and you can do it 24/7. When you get to the section about current employment, there will be a question specifically about self-employment or gig work where you can indicate you're doing DoorDash. Also, keep screenshots or records of your DoorDash earnings dashboard each week before you certify. I learned this the hard way when they asked me to verify my reported earnings months later and I had to dig through old records. Having weekly screenshots saved me a lot of headache. One more tip - if you're in NYC, there are some local workforce development centers that can help you navigate the unemployment system for free. They're familiar with gig work situations and might be able to answer questions without you having to deal with the terrible phone system.

There are definitely workforce development centers in Queens! The Queens Public Library has several locations that offer free employment services, including help with unemployment claims. The Jamaica and Flushing branches have dedicated workforce development staff. There's also the Queens Community House and SBS (Small Business Services) has American Job Centers throughout the borough. You can find locations and contact info on the NYC.gov website under "Jobs and Workforce Development." Most of these places are used to helping people navigate unemployment while doing gig work since it's become so common. Much better than trying to get through on that impossible phone line! Also, since you're in Queens, you might have better luck with DoorDash orders in areas like Astoria, Long Island City, or near the colleges. The delivery demand can vary a lot by neighborhood.

Same boat here - filed 4 weeks ago and nothing. At least I know I'm not alone in this. The uncertainty is the worst part.

I'm going through the same thing right now - filed my initial claim about 3.5 weeks ago and still showing as pending. It's frustrating because you hear such different timelines from everyone. I've been trying to stay patient but it's hard when you're not sure if it's normal delays or if there's an actual issue with your claim. Thanks for posting this question, it helps to see I'm not the only one dealing with this right now.

Construction workers often get confused by this because seasonal work creates uneven quarters. Your base period might not include your best earning periods if the timing doesn't line up right with when you filed your claim.

This is exactly why I wish NYS Department of Labor would provide clearer examples on their website. I'm also in construction and had no idea about the base period quarters thing until I started digging into it. Your $425 weekly benefit actually sounds reasonable if you had some slow quarters mixed in with your higher earning ones. The timing of when you file really does matter - I've heard of people waiting a few weeks to file if they knew a high-earning quarter was about to become part of their base period, though obviously you can't wait too long since benefits are backdated only so far.

The adjudication process can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks depending on how complex the case is and how quickly both parties respond. Since your employer is contesting, NYS Department of Labor has to investigate both sides thoroughly. Make sure you respond promptly to any requests for information or documentation they send you. You can also check your claim status online through the NYS Department of Labor website - it should show if they're waiting for anything from you or your employer.

I went through something similar last year when my employer contested my claim saying I violated company policy. What really helped my case was keeping detailed records - I had emails showing I followed proper procedures and even got written confirmation from my supervisor on certain decisions. NYS Department of Labor ended up ruling in my favor because I could prove the employer's version didn't match the documentation. My advice is to gather any evidence you have (emails, texts, photos, witness statements) and submit it proactively rather than waiting for them to request it. Also, don't let your employer intimidate you - they have the burden of proving misconduct, not the other way around.