Just want to add support - strike situations are really tough financially. Make sure you look into other resources like food banks, utility assistance programs, and see if your union has any additional support beyond the strike fund. Sometimes local churches or community organizations help out too during labor disputes.

I went through this exact situation 2 years ago when our local went on strike for 5 weeks. The unemployment denial was tough but here's what helped me get through it: 1) Applied for emergency SNAP benefits immediately - the process was faster than I expected, 2) Called my credit card companies and mortgage lender to explain the situation - most had temporary hardship programs, 3) Our union organized carpools and shared resources which saved on gas/groceries. Also check if your union has agreements with local businesses for discounts during strikes. Mine had deals with a few grocery stores that helped stretch the strike fund money. Stay strong and remember this is temporary - the financial stress is real but you're fighting for something important.

I'm sorry you're going through this health situation - it's really stressful when you're dealing with medical issues and financial concerns at the same time. Based on what everyone's shared here, it sounds like NY State Disability Benefits through the Workers' Compensation Board is definitely your best bet since regular unemployment won't work for medical leave. I'd recommend calling your doctor's office first to make sure they're familiar with the disability forms they'll need to complete - some offices are more experienced with this than others. Also, if you're still employed, check with your HR department about whether your company offers any short-term disability coverage that might supplement the state benefits. Sometimes there are multiple programs you can access simultaneously. The online application at wcb.ny.gov seems to be the consensus best approach from everyone here. Wishing you the best with your health and getting the financial support you need during this difficult time!

This thread has been so helpful for understanding the difference between unemployment and disability benefits in NY! I'm currently dealing with a similar medical situation and was completely lost about where to turn. It's really encouraging to see so many people who've successfully navigated the NY State Disability Benefits process through the Workers' Compensation Board. One thing I'm wondering about - for those who've been approved, how did you handle the gap period between stopping work and receiving your first disability payment? I'm worried about covering my expenses during those 3-4 weeks of processing time. Did any of you use savings, or are there other emergency assistance programs available while waiting for the disability benefits to kick in? Thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences - it's made this overwhelming situation feel much more manageable!

Wait, I thought if you had a recall date you couldn't collect unemployment at all? Now I'm wondering if I missed out on benefits when this happened to me six months ago...

I just went through this exact situation a few months ago! The recall date basically means you're on "temporary layoff" status. You absolutely CAN and SHOULD collect unemployment benefits during this time. Keep filing your weekly claims and make sure to report the recall date when asked. The key thing is that your work search requirements are usually reduced - instead of applying to multiple jobs per week, you mainly just need to stay available and ready to return when called. But definitely keep track of any changes to that recall date because if it gets pushed back or cancelled, you'll need to report it immediately. Don't let the confusing website language scare you - you're entitled to these benefits!

I went through this same frustrating experience a few months ago! One thing I didn't see mentioned yet is that your account number might also be in the URL when you're logged into your unemployment account on my.ny.gov. Sometimes it appears as part of the web address when you're viewing your claim details. Also, if you filed your claim over the phone initially, check any notes you might have written down during that call - they usually give you the confirmation/account number verbally. Another tip: if you're still stuck, try using the "Forgot Account Number" link on the weekly certification page - it's not always obvious but some people have had success with that feature. The NY unemployment system is definitely not user-friendly, but once you find that number, make sure to save it in multiple places!

I just went through this exact same frustration last week! What finally worked for me was logging into my.ny.gov and going to the "Documents" section under unemployment services - there was a PDF called "Initial Claim Acknowledgment" that had my account number right on the first page. I had completely overlooked it before because it was just listed as a generic document name. Also, if you're still having trouble, try clearing your browser cache and cookies before logging back in - sometimes the system glitches and doesn't display all your account information properly. The account number is usually formatted as UI followed by some numbers (like UI1234567). Once you find it, definitely screenshot it or write it down somewhere safe because you'll need it every week for certifications. Don't worry about the filing deadline - as long as you file within a reasonable time and explain any delays, they're usually understanding about technical difficulties with their system.

The whole system is confusing as hell. Why can't they just make it simple - you lose your job, you apply, you get benefits. Instead we have to figure out reopening vs new claims, benefit years, wage reporting... it's like they WANT to make it complicated so people give up

Just wanted to add that when you reopen your claim, make sure you have all your employment documentation from that November job ready - pay stubs, W-2, termination letter, etc. NYS Department of Labor may ask for verification of your work history and earnings. Also, if your November job was in a different industry or paid significantly more/less than your original job, it could affect your weekly benefit calculation. The system will use wages from your highest earning quarter during the base period, so depending on when you worked that November job, it might actually increase your benefits. Good luck with the reopening process!