You should definitely apply! I'm a part-time student and got approved for partial benefits when my restaurant job cut my shifts. The important thing is being honest about your availability and actively job searching. Keep records of your job applications because they might ask for your job search log.

As someone who just went through the NYS DOL application process as a student, I can confirm what others have said - you can definitely qualify! The key is demonstrating that school doesn't prevent you from working. Since you're already employed and just had hours reduced, that actually works in your favor. When I applied, they were most concerned about whether I could accept a job offer during normal business hours. With your afternoon/weekend availability, you should be fine. One tip: when they ask about job search activities, apply to places that match your available schedule so you can honestly say you're seeking work during hours you're actually free. The partial benefits really helped me get through a tough semester when my hours got cut. Good luck!

ugh the whole system is so confusing for students. why can't they just have clear guidelines posted somewhere instead of making us guess

Maya, you should definitely apply! As a student, you can absolutely qualify for unemployment in NY as long as you meet the work history requirements (which sounds like you do with 8 months of work) and can show you're available for work that fits your schedule. The key things to remember: 1) You need to actively search for jobs that work around your class times, 2) Keep detailed records of your job applications, and 3) Be honest about your availability when you file. Since you were working 25 hours/week while in school, that shows you can balance both. Don't let your student status discourage you from applying - it's about availability for work, not whether you're in school.

btw i use freetaxusa instead of turbotax and it automatically knows the ein for unemployment in each state. saves time and its cheaper too

Just wanted to follow up and say HUGE thanks to everyone who helped! I was able to complete my tax filing using the EIN number 11-2868823 that several of you provided. TurboTax accepted it without any issues and my return has already been submitted. For anyone else running into this same problem - definitely check if your 1099-G form has the EIN in box 9 first, but if it's missing like mine was, you can safely use 11-2868823 for NY unemployment benefits. This community is a lifesaver! I was so stressed about missing the tax deadline but you all came through with the exact info I needed. Really appreciate how helpful everyone has been here.

just apply anyway!! worst they can say is no and then you know for sure. the application process is pretty straightforward on the my.ny.gov website

As someone who recently navigated this process, I can confirm that being a student doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits in NY. The main thing is demonstrating you're genuinely available for work that fits around your class schedule. When you apply through the NYS DOL website, they'll ask about your availability - just be specific about the days/times you can work. Since you've been working 25+ hours consistently, you should have enough work history to qualify. One tip: start documenting your job search efforts now (applications, interviews, etc.) because you'll need to report these activities during your weekly certifications. Good luck with your application and your final semester!

Pro tip: set a recurring alarm on your phone for Sunday mornings. I do mine at 8am every week and it's become routine. The NYS Department of Labor system can be slow on Sunday mornings because everyone's trying to certify at once, so sometimes I wait until afternoon.

Just want to clarify something that might help - when you first get approved, they usually send you a letter or email with your specific certification day and instructions. But yes, it's typically Sunday for most people. One thing to watch out for is that if there's a holiday weekend, the certification might be delayed by a day. I learned this the hard way during Labor Day weekend! Also, make sure you're logging into the correct portal - there's the main NYS DOL website and then the separate unemployment services portal where you actually do the certification.