This is super helpful information everyone! I'm in a similar situation where I'm worried about potential layoffs at my company. One thing I'm curious about - does the size of the employer or the industry they're in affect how much they pay into the unemployment system? Like would a big tech company pay the same rate as a small restaurant? And does that impact how quickly claims get processed or anything like that?

Just wanted to add that if you're looking into this because you're worried about job security, it might be worth checking your earnings statement from NYS Department of Labor online. You can see your quarterly wages there which will give you a better idea of what your potential weekly benefit amount would be. I found out about this when I was between jobs last year - you can access it through the same portal where you'd file a claim. It's called the "Benefit Rate Calculator" and it helped me budget during my job search knowing roughly what I could expect.

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago! I'm also a veteran receiving military retirement pay and was laid off from my civilian job. Just to add to what others have said - when I filed my initial claim online, there was definitely a separate section specifically for pension/retirement income. I reported my military retirement pay there and it had zero impact on my weekly benefit amount. The NYS Department of Labor treats it as non-deductible income since it's from past military service, not current employment. I've been collecting both my retirement pay and UI benefits without any issues. The key is just being upfront about it from the beginning like you're planning to do. You should be all set!

Just wanted to add another data point - I'm a retired Air Force veteran who went through this process about a year ago. My military retirement pay is around $1,800/month and it absolutely did not affect my NYS unemployment benefits at all. The application process was pretty straightforward once I found the right section for pension income. One thing I'd recommend is keeping good records of your military retirement documentation (like your DD-214 and retirement orders) because sometimes they may ask for verification during the claims process. Also, make sure you're still meeting all the other requirements like actively searching for work and being available for employment - that's what they really care about. The retirement pay is just considered background income from your past service. You should be fine!

I'm a social worker who has helped clients navigate this exact situation many times. You're absolutely eligible for unemployment benefits while in outpatient treatment! The NYS DOL defines "available for work" as being able to accept suitable employment, and a 12-hour weekly treatment schedule clearly doesn't prevent that. In fact, many employers today are very supportive of employees in recovery programs. When you file your weekly certifications, just answer honestly that you're able and available for work - because you are! The treatment schedule is manageable around any work schedule. I always tell my clients that taking care of your health makes you a better employee in the long run. Don't let this worry stop you from getting the help you deserve. You've got this!

I've been in a very similar situation and want to add my perspective. I was in an intensive outpatient program (3 days/week, 3 hours each) while receiving unemployment benefits in NY last year. The key thing that helped me was being proactive about my job search and documenting everything. I scheduled interviews and networking meetings on my non-treatment days and was always upfront with potential employers about my limited availability on treatment days - most were actually impressed by my commitment to recovery. The NYS DOL never questioned my eligibility because I was clearly available for full-time work around my 9 hours of weekly treatment. I'd also suggest connecting with your treatment program's vocational counselor if they have one - they often have great advice about job searching while in recovery and may know employers who are recovery-friendly. You're making the right choice by prioritizing your health, and it absolutely shouldn't prevent you from getting the financial support you need during this transition.

just wanted to say good luck with the application! being on unemployment is stressful enough without worrying about food. the system is there to help people in situations exactly like yours.

Just to add some specifics that might help - when you apply online at myBenefits.ny.gov, make sure you have your Social Security card, ID, and that unemployment award letter ready to upload. The system will ask you to verify your identity, so having all your documents ready speeds things up. Also, if you qualify, you might be eligible for expedited processing (benefits within 7 days) since your income is pretty low. Worth asking about when you apply!

Good luck with everything! The process can be frustrating but it's definitely possible to get benefits again if you qualify. I'm rooting for you!

I went through this exact situation about 2 years ago! After my benefits expired, I worked various contract jobs for about 9 months before applying again. The process was pretty straightforward - you just need to file a brand new claim online. One thing that helped me was keeping detailed records of all my earnings during that gap period, including 1099s and any cash payments. Also heads up that you'll need to do the whole work search requirement again, but honestly it felt easier the second time around since I knew what to expect. The hardest part was just waiting for the approval, but it did come through. Hang in there!