Also don't forget about the partial unemployment option if you find part time work. You can sometimes still collect benefits if your hours are reduced.

Just wanted to add that if you're in marketing like the original poster, you might also want to look into whether your company offered any severance or COBRA benefits that could help bridge the gap. Some marketing roles also qualify for freelance/contract work that could supplement partial unemployment benefits. Also, consider using this time to update your portfolio and maybe get some certifications - LinkedIn Learning and Google have free courses that could make you more competitive when those 26 weeks are up. The key is treating job searching like a full-time job itself.

For job search requirements, you need to apply for suitable work which generally means jobs that match your skills, experience, and pay rate (though the acceptable pay rate decreases over time). You don't have to stay in retail forever, but early on you should focus on similar positions.

Just to add to what everyone's said - don't stress too much about the application process! I was super nervous when I applied for the first time after getting laid off from my warehouse job. The online system walks you through everything step by step. One tip: apply as soon as possible after your last day of work because there's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits start, and you want to get that clock ticking. Also, if you're unsure about any of the questions during the application, it's better to answer honestly and let them determine your eligibility rather than guess. Good luck!

I'm so glad someone finally got through! @a1978de8d17d that Spanish option tip is amazing - I never would have thought of that. I've been calling for 3 weeks straight about my own document issues and getting nowhere. For anyone else still struggling, I also found that if you call the main number and immediately press 0 followed by # it sometimes bypasses the automated menu and puts you straight into the general queue. Doesn't always work but worth trying. Also wanted to mention - if you're still overseas and having login issues, ExpressVPN worked for me when I was traveling. The US East Coast servers seem to work best for NY unemployment site access. Hope this helps others who are stuck in the same boat!

This thread has been so helpful! I'm dealing with a similar overseas situation and have been banging my head against the wall trying to reach NY unemployment for weeks. @a1978de8d17d - congrats on finally getting through with the Spanish option! That's such a clever workaround. If you're comfortable sharing that direct fax number, it would be a lifesaver for those of us still stuck in document limbo. For anyone else still struggling, I wanted to add that I've had some luck using Google Voice to make the calls. Since it routes through US servers, it sometimes helps with international calling issues and you don't get hit with those crazy overseas rates while sitting on hold for hours. Also, I noticed someone mentioned contacting your state representative - this actually worked for a friend of mine last year. She reached out to her assemblyperson's office and they were able to get her connected to someone at NYSDOL within 48 hours. Worth a shot if the phone tricks don't work! Fingers crossed we all get this sorted out soon. The whole system is absolutely broken but at least we're helping each other navigate it! 🤞

Just make sure you're being honest about everything when you file. The NYS Department of Labor will cross-reference your reported earnings with what your employer reports, so any discrepancies will cause problems.

I went through this exact situation last year when my restaurant cut my hours from 35 to 15 per week. Yes, your employer gets notified automatically, but honestly it worked out fine for me. My manager actually understood since they were the ones who reduced my schedule due to slow business. The key is being completely transparent about your part-time earnings when you file your weekly certifications. I was getting about $180/week in partial benefits which really helped cover my rent. Just keep good records of your hours and pay stubs in case there are any questions later.

Just want to say good luck with your claim! I know how stressful it is when you lose a client unexpectedly. The home care field can be so unpredictable with employment.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago when my elderly client had to be hospitalized long-term. As long as you were getting a W-2 and had taxes withheld, you should definitely qualify. The most important thing is to file your claim immediately - don't wait! When I filed, I had to provide my employer's name (the home care agency), their federal ID number, and my dates of employment. The NYS Department of Labor was actually pretty understanding about home care work situations. Just be prepared to explain your work arrangement clearly in case they have questions during the review process.