Don't forget about SNAP benefits (food stamps) - you can apply online and if you qualify you might get benefits within a week. Also if you have kids there are additional programs available. The stress is real but you'll get through this, just take it one week at a time.

I went through this exact situation last year and it was terrifying. A few things that really helped me survive those first weeks: plasma donation if you're eligible (can make $50-100/week), task-based apps like TaskRabbit or Instacart for quick cash, and don't be ashamed to reach out to local mutual aid groups on Facebook - they often help with groceries and small bills no questions asked. Also, if you're behind on rent, contact your landlord immediately and explain the situation - many will work with you if you're proactive about communicating rather than just disappearing. The anxiety is overwhelming but you're doing everything right by filing your claims on time. This phase won't last forever even though it feels endless right now.

Hey Zara! I went through something similar when I was making about $590/week at my previous job. Just wanted to share a few practical tips that helped me: First, gather all your pay stubs from the past year before you even think you might need to file - NYS likes documentation and it speeds up the process. Second, if you do get laid off, consider setting up direct deposit right away since paper checks can take longer. Also, don't forget that you can work part-time while collecting benefits as long as you report it properly - this might help bridge the gap between your $268-ish weekly benefit and your $1200 rent. The earnings you can make without affecting benefits changes, so definitely ask about that when you file. One last thing - start networking now if possible, because the 3 weekly job search activities go by faster when you have a plan. Best of luck with everything!

I'm in a really similar situation - working retail and making about $580/week with potential layoffs coming up. This thread has been incredibly helpful! Based on what everyone's sharing, it sounds like I should expect around $250-270 per week in benefits. I'm definitely going to start gathering my pay stubs and documentation now like @Mae Bennett suggested. One thing I'm wondering about - has anyone dealt with seasonal employment affecting their base period calculation? I worked part-time retail last holiday season before getting my current full-time position, so I'm not sure how that factors into the quarterly earnings they look at. Also really appreciate the tip about Claimyr - the thought of trying to reach NYS Department of Labor by phone sounds like a nightmare!

same here with the phone interview anxiety! mine is next week too and im worried about saying the wrong thing. at least we're both going through this together lol. let me know how yours goes

I went through a similar phone interview with NYS DOL last year after being laid off from my office job. They really just want to confirm the basic facts - when you last worked, why you're no longer employed, and that you're actively looking for new work. The interviewer was actually pretty friendly and just walked through my claim step by step. The whole thing took maybe 15 minutes. Just have your employment dates handy and be ready to explain that you were laid off through no fault of your own. You'll do fine!

Make sure you keep documentation of the job offer and your refusal with the reasons why. When you do your weekly claim certification, there might be a question about job offers - just be honest about it. The fact that it requires relocation with your family situation should protect your benefits. You're still required to actively search for suitable work in your area though.

I went through something very similar when I was on unemployment benefits. A job offer that requires a 5-hour relocation from NYC to Rochester definitely falls outside the "suitable work" requirements, especially with your circumstances. The NYS Department of Labor considers factors like commuting distance, family obligations (like kids in school), and caregiving responsibilities (your elderly mom). Document everything - save the job offer email, write down your reasons for declining, and when you file your weekly claim, answer honestly if asked about job offers. You should be completely fine continuing your benefits as long as you keep actively searching for work in your local area.

You should also know that even if you get approved, you might have to wait longer for your first payment since they'll need to investigate. My cousin quit for good cause and it took 6 weeks before she saw any money.

I went through this exact situation two years ago. My supervisor was creating a hostile work environment and I documented everything - saved emails, wrote down incidents with dates/times, and even got a coworker to witness some of the harassment. When I finally quit and filed for unemployment, NYS Department of Labor initially denied my claim, but I appealed and won after the adjudication interview. The key was having all that documentation to prove it was a reasonable decision to quit. The whole process took about 8 weeks from filing to getting my first payment, but it was worth it. Make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even while waiting for the decision - you'll get back pay if approved.