Just wanted to add - when you're filling out the backdating request, make sure you have your termination documentation ready (like your final paycheck stub or separation notice). I backdated mine to my last day of work too, and having that paperwork made the process smoother. Also, don't worry too much about the exact wording for why you filed late - "personal circumstances following job loss" or "unfamiliarity with the filing process" are both totally valid. The unemployment office knows people don't always file immediately, especially when dealing with the shock of losing a job. You've got this! 💪

I'm in a similar boat - lost my job in November but just getting around to filing now. Reading through everyone's experiences here is really helpful! It sounds like being honest about the circumstances is the way to go. I was worried they'd be super strict about late filing, but it seems like they're pretty understanding when you explain the situation. Thanks to everyone who shared their stories - it's making this whole process feel less intimidating! 🙂

Yeah this happened to my brother too! He hurt his shoulder at his job and couldn't do heavy lifting anymore but his company just laid him off instead of finding him different work. He ended up getting unemployment but had to prove he was looking for office jobs and stuff he could actually do with his injury. Took forever to get approved though.

I went through something similar when I had surgery and couldn't return to my retail job that required standing for long periods. The key thing NYS Department of Labor looks at is whether you're "able and available" for SOME type of work, not necessarily your previous job. Since your doctor cleared you for non-physical work, you should be able to qualify. When you file, be honest about your restrictions but emphasize what you CAN do. Document your job search efforts for positions that fit your medical limitations - remote work, desk jobs, customer service roles, etc. Also definitely look into workers compensation since this was a workplace injury. You might be eligible for both depending on timing and circumstances. The approval process can take a while when there are medical restrictions involved, so file as soon as possible.

This thread has been so helpful! I'm in a similar situation where my hours at a retail store got cut from 32 to about 15 hours per week. Reading about the 25% earnings deduction formula really clarifies things - I was worried that working any hours would completely cancel out unemployment benefits. It sounds like it's definitely worth applying since I'm working less than 4 days now. One question though - if my schedule is inconsistent week to week (sometimes 12 hours, sometimes 20), do I just report whatever I actually earned that specific week when I file my weekly claim? And does anyone know if there's a minimum number of hours you need to have worked before the reduction to qualify for partial benefits?

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is the waiting week requirement. In NY, you typically have to serve one unpaid waiting week before benefits start, but this applies to partial unemployment too. So even if you get approved quickly, your first week of benefits will be unpaid. Also, make sure you file your claim as soon as your hours get reduced - you can't backdate partial unemployment claims like you sometimes can with regular unemployment. I learned this the hard way when I waited a month thinking my hours might go back up. Lost out on several weeks of potential benefits because I didn't file right away when the reduction happened.

Good luck with your move! Buffalo is a nice city. At least unemployment stuff is one less thing to worry about during a relocation.

I went through something similar when I had to move from Syracuse to Long Island for family reasons while collecting unemployment. The process was actually pretty straightforward - you just need to update your address in the online system and make sure you're still actively job searching in your new area. One thing to keep in mind is that Buffalo might have different job opportunities than Rochester, so you'll want to familiarize yourself with the local job market before you move. Also, make sure all your contact information is current because sometimes they send important notices by mail. The move itself won't disrupt your benefits as long as you stay in New York and keep meeting all the requirements!

Email your state senator AND your assembly person. I'm serious. I tried EVERYTHING to get through for 2 months. Called hundreds of times. Finally emailed my senator's office with my claim info and they had someone from DOL call me within 4 days.

I feel your pain - been in the exact same situation. After weeks of failed attempts, I finally got through using a combination of strategies. First, try calling at 7:58am sharp (not 8am) - the queue opens early. Second, if you have access to multiple phones, use them all to call simultaneously and take whichever one gets through first. Third, don't give up after the first "high call volume" message - immediately hang up and redial. I had to do this 50+ times one morning but finally got in the queue. Also try the Spanish line trick someone mentioned - press 2 for Spanish, then explain in English when you get through. The wait times are much shorter. Last resort: contact your local assembly member's office. They have direct lines to DOL and can often get your case escalated within days instead of months. Hang in there!