Just wanted to add that if you're looking for supplemental benefits, it's worth checking if your former employer participates in any state-specific programs too. New York has some lesser-known workforce development programs that can provide additional support beyond regular UI from NYS Department of Labor. Also, if you worked for a company with multiple locations across states, they might have different supplemental benefit policies depending on where you worked. I'd suggest calling your former employer's benefits department directly and asking specifically about "supplemental unemployment benefits" or "SUB plans" - use those exact terms because HR will know what you mean.

This is super helpful info! I had no idea there were so many different types of supplemental programs. I've been getting my regular NYS Department of Labor benefits but never thought to check with my old employer about their own programs. My company was pretty big so they might have had something like this. Does anyone know if there's a time limit on applying for employer-funded supplemental benefits? Like, if I've already been collecting regular UI for 6 weeks, is it too late to apply for company supplements?

Don't stress too much about the employment length thing. Like others said, it's about your total earnings over the base period quarters, not how long you stayed at one specific job. The system is designed to help people who lose work through no fault of their own.

Just to add some clarity - the base period calculation can be confusing but it's actually pretty straightforward once you understand it. Since you worked for 2 years at your previous job, you definitely have wages in multiple quarters which is what matters most. The NYS DOL will look at your highest quarter earnings to determine your weekly benefit amount too. Even if your current job doesn't work out after 6 weeks, those 6 weeks of wages will just be additional earnings on top of your already qualifying base period. Don't let the fear of not qualifying stop you from filing if you do get laid off - worst case they say no, but based on what you've described you should be fine.

I'm in a similar situation - my card was also mailed Monday and I'm anxiously waiting! Reading through everyone's experiences here, it sounds like 7-10 business days is the norm, though some people got theirs faster. I'm in Queens and really hoping it arrives by early next week. One thing I learned from this thread is to definitely check my mail carefully since the envelope looks plain. Also planning to set up direct deposit immediately once I get it activated so I don't have to go through this waiting game again for future payments. Fingers crossed for both of us that they arrive soon!

Just wanted to add that I had a similar experience recently - my card was mailed on a Thursday and arrived the following Tuesday, so about 5 business days total. I'm in the Bronx for reference. One thing that really helped my anxiety was knowing that even if the card is delayed, your payments are still being processed and will be available once you do get it activated. The money doesn't disappear! Also, make sure you have the NYSDOL app downloaded so you can check your payment history and see when funds are actually loaded to your account. It helped me track everything better than just the website. Hang in there - I know the waiting is stressful but it will come!

I'm in a similar situation and just wanted to share what I learned from my case worker. The key is to be proactive - don't wait for them to start garnishing. Call the child support office as soon as you start receiving UI benefits and explain your situation. They may be able to set up a temporary reduced payment plan while you're unemployed. Also, keep detailed records of all your expenses (rent, utilities, groceries) in case you need to prove financial hardship later. The system isn't perfect but there are options if you know how to navigate it.

I work at a legal aid clinic and see this situation frequently. In New York, they typically review temporary payment modifications every 3-6 months, but it can vary based on your county's child support office. When you request the modification, ask specifically about the review schedule and what documentation you'll need to provide for extensions. Some offices are more flexible than others - if you're actively job searching and can show proof (applications, interviews, etc.), they're usually more willing to extend temporary arrangements. Also, if your UI benefits are set to expire, let them know in advance so they can adjust accordingly rather than reverting to the original payment amount when you have no income at all.

The whole system is ridiculous!! Why should there be a time limit on filing when you lost your job through no fault of your own? I understand preventing fraud but 4 weeks is nothing when you're dealing with job loss and don't know all the rules. At least file now OP and see what they give you - something is better than nothing.

Don't beat yourself up about waiting - a lot of people make the same mistake thinking they'll find work quickly. The 4-week backdate limit is frustrating but definitely file your claim ASAP. When you apply, make sure to request the maximum backdate and provide any documentation you can about your layoff date. Even if you only get 4 weeks back, that's still significant money. Also, once you start receiving benefits, you'll at least have some income coming in while you continue your job search. The key is to not lose any more time - file today if possible.