I'm new to this whole unemployment process and feeling pretty overwhelmed reading through all these details! One thing that's helping me is breaking it down into smaller steps. I made a simple checklist for my weekly claims: 1) Update my job search log before filing, 2) Double-check any earnings from the week (even small amounts), 3) Read each question twice before answering, and 4) Take screenshots before submitting like @Natasha mentioned. It's making the whole process feel less scary. Also just wanted to say thank you to everyone sharing their experiences - it's really reassuring to know others have figured this out and that making honest mistakes isn't the end of the world as long as you're upfront about everything with NYS Department of Labor.

I just wanted to add something that helped me when I was confused about the work search requirements - you can actually call your local One-Stop Career Center for guidance on what counts as valid job search activities. They helped me understand that things like updating your resume, taking online skills courses, or even informational interviews can count toward your 3 weekly activities. The staff there are really knowledgeable about NYS Department of Labor requirements and they're way easier to reach than the main unemployment line. For @Amina's original question about the weekly claim - the key thing that gave me confidence was realizing that the system is designed to support people who are genuinely looking for work, so as long as you're honest about your activities and earnings, you'll be fine. The $75 freelance work is actually a good sign that you're actively trying to get back on your feet, and reporting it correctly shows NYS Department of Labor that you're following the rules. Don't let the complexity scare you - thousands of people successfully file these claims every week!

I went through this exact same thing 2 months ago! The NY unemployment portal is notorious for not sending confirmation emails after document uploads. Here's what I did that actually worked: 1. Log back into your account and look for a "Document History" or "Submitted Documents" section - sometimes the uploads show there even without email confirmation 2. If you can't find proof they received them, definitely mail physical copies via certified mail as backup 3. Try calling early morning (like 8:01 AM sharp) - that's when I had the best luck getting through 4. Keep detailed records of everything - dates you uploaded, what documents, screenshots if possible The whole system is a mess right now but don't panic. Most people's documents do eventually get processed, it just takes forever and they're terrible at communicating. The fact that you were able to upload through the official link from their email is a good sign. Hang in there! 💪

Just went through this nightmare last week! The NY unemployment portal is absolutely terrible at confirmations. Here's what saved me: I logged back in and found my uploaded docs under "My Account" > "Document Center" - they were there even though I never got an email. If you can't find them there, definitely send certified mail copies ASAP. I also recommend taking screenshots of your upload confirmation pages going forward (learned that the hard way). The system is completely broken but your docs are probably in there somewhere. Don't wait too long to follow up though - I've heard horror stories of people waiting months. You got this! 🤞

I work as a benefits counselor and see this situation frequently. You're absolutely right to apply now even though it's been a couple months. NYS Department of Labor is pretty forgiving with late applications - the one year filing window gives people flexibility for situations exactly like yours. Since you were fired rather than laid off, make sure you have any documentation about the circumstances ready in case they request it during the adjudication process. The fact that you didn't think you qualified initially is actually a common reason people cite for delayed filing, and the department understands that the eligibility rules aren't always clear to applicants. Good luck with your application!

I was in a very similar situation - got fired in September but didn't apply until December because I thought being terminated disqualified me automatically. Turns out that's a huge misconception! The NYS Department of Labor actually approved my claim after adjudication because my firing was due to a restructuring situation, not misconduct. The hardest part was just getting started with the application on ny.gov, but once I did it was pretty straightforward. You definitely won't get those October-December weeks back, but don't let that stop you from filing now. Every week you delay is another week of potential benefits lost going forward. I'd also recommend keeping detailed notes about your termination circumstances since they'll likely ask follow-up questions during the review process.

Restaurant workers always get confused about this because of how tips work. Just remember - if money went in your pocket for work you did that week, it counts as gross earnings. Cash tips, credit card tips, tip pools, everything. And yeah definitely include training pay for the week you actually did the training, not when you got the check.

ugh this is exactly why I hate doing my weekly claims. so much anxiety about getting it wrong and then having to deal with overpayment notices later. at least you got through adjudication - mine's been pending for 6 weeks now

just file asap!!! the sooner you file the sooner you start getting paid. i waited like 2 weeks thinking i might find another job quick and that was stupid because you cant get benefits for those weeks you waited

Welcome to the unemployment world, Jackson! I went through this same thing last year when my restaurant closed down. One thing I wish someone had told me upfront - make sure you have ALL your employment info ready when you apply. They'll need your last employer's address, your supervisor's name, exact dates of employment, and reason for separation. Also, if you worked multiple jobs in the past 18 months, you'll need info for ALL of them since they calculate your benefit amount based on your total earnings during what they call your "base period." The NYS Department of Labor website has a benefit calculator you can use to estimate what you might receive before you even apply.