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 went through this same confusion earlier this year! In addition to what others mentioned, you can also try logging into your NY.gov account and looking under "My Online Services" - sometimes the determination letters show up there first before being mailed. Also, if you're able to certify for weekly benefits and haven't been blocked from the system, that's usually a positive sign. The 2-week timeframe is still pretty normal for processing, especially if they need to verify employment with your previous employer. Keep doing those weekly certifications even if you haven't gotten a clear answer yet - you don't want to miss any potential back pay if you do get approved!

Another thing to check - if you can see a "Weekly Benefit Amount" listed anywhere in your account (even if it says $0), that usually means your claim went through initial processing. Also, make sure you didn't miss any requests for additional documentation. Sometimes they'll send a message asking for pay stubs or separation paperwork and if you don't respond within 10 days, it can hold up your claim indefinitely. The fact that you can still file weekly claims is definitely encouraging though - when claims are outright rejected, they typically block you from filing at all.

This is happening way too often and it's completely unacceptable! I just went through this exact same situation yesterday - waited for an hour and twenty minutes for absolutely nobody to show up. I was starting to panic thinking my benefits might get cut off for "missing" a meeting that I definitely didn't miss! Thank goodness for this thread because everyone's advice has been a total lifesaver! I immediately took screenshots of everything (the meeting room showing I was there, my confirmation email, timestamps) and called that Virtual Meeting Support line at 518-457-2299 that so many people mentioned. They were able to confirm that their agent never even logged into the system and marked it as "agency error" in my file right away - such a relief! I also filed a complaint on the DOL website under "Technical Issues" instead of trying to reschedule normally, just like everyone suggested. Got a response within 48 hours and was rescheduled without any penalties or issues with my benefits. It's honestly disgraceful that we have to become unemployment system experts just to protect ourselves from their technical failures when we're already stressed about our financial situation. But I'm so grateful for this community sharing actual solutions that work! The documentation and using these specific channels is absolutely crucial. Don't let them try to blame you for their broken system! 💪

This exact same thing just happened to me this morning! Waited for an hour and a half and nobody showed up. I was getting so anxious thinking I'd somehow messed up or that they'd mark me as a no-show. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been such a relief - at least I know I'm not alone and there are actual steps I can take. About to call that Virtual Meeting Support line at 518-457-2299 and file under "Technical Issues" like everyone's suggesting. Already took screenshots of everything. It's honestly crazy that we have to become experts at protecting ourselves from their own system failures, but thank you all for sharing what actually works! This community has been a lifesaver 🙏

I'm currently going through this exact same situation as a newer real estate agent (licensed for about 8 months) and this thread has been incredibly helpful! It's disappointing to confirm that we don't qualify for unemployment benefits as independent contractors, but I appreciate everyone sharing their experiences and alternative strategies. I'm definitely going to look into transaction coordination work and reaching out to my sphere of influence more systematically. For other agents reading this - I've also found that some brokerages offer small stipends or desk fees waivers during slow periods, so it might be worth talking to your broker about temporary assistance options. The market will turn around eventually, but in the meantime it's good to know there are creative ways to bring in some income while staying in the real estate space. Thanks to everyone who shared their stories - it really helps to know we're not alone in this struggle!

I'm also a real estate agent dealing with this exact situation right now. It's so frustrating to be in this limbo where you're essentially unemployed but can't access unemployment benefits because of the independent contractor classification. I've been reading through all the suggestions here and they're really helpful - especially the ideas about transaction coordination and VA work for other agents. One thing I want to add is that I've started looking into getting my property management license as well, since that could provide more steady income opportunities. The property management companies in my area seem to always be hiring, and the skills translate well from real estate sales. Has anyone else explored this route? Also, for what it's worth, I did try calling NYS Department of Labor multiple times but could never get through to actually speak with someone - the phone system is incredibly frustrating. Thanks to everyone sharing their experiences and suggestions - it really helps to know other agents have made it through similar tough periods.

just respond honestly to whatever NYS Department of Labor sends you and you'll be fine. most employers overthink this stuff

One thing to keep in mind is timing - make sure you respond quickly to any notices from NYS Department of Labor. They usually give you about 10 days to respond with your side of the story. If you miss that deadline, they might approve the claim by default even if you had good reasons for the termination. Also document the dates of the attendance issues and any progressive discipline you used - that shows you gave them a fair chance to improve before firing them.