Thank you everyone for all the helpful information! I've made a checklist of everything I need to do tomorrow: 1. Talk to HR about NYS Disability Benefits and get the DB-450 form 2. Make appointment with my OB to get their portion completed ASAP 3. Look up my local WIC office and application process 4. Contact DSS about any other assistance programs 5. Ask hospital about meeting with social worker during my stay I'm still shocked at how low the disability benefit is, but at least it's something. I'll update after I talk to HR tomorrow. Fingers crossed this all works out!

Also wanted to mention - don't forget to check if you qualify for HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) and see if your county has any emergency rental assistance programs. When I was in a similar situation, these programs helped me keep the lights on and avoid eviction during those tough first few months. The income limits are usually pretty reasonable for new families. You can usually apply for HEAP through the same DSS office. Also, if you're planning to breastfeed, WIC provides extra food allowances for nursing mothers which can really help stretch your grocery budget. Wishing you the best with everything - you've got this! 💪

Just went through this process myself last month. One tip that really helped - when you get that UC-309 form, read it carefully because it will tell you exactly what information NYS Department of Labor is looking for. They usually want the last day worked, reason for separation, and any relevant dates. If you have an employee handbook or written policies that were violated, include copies of those too. The key is being factual and specific rather than vague. And definitely don't miss that 10-day deadline - I learned the hard way that extensions are really rare.

One more thing to consider - if this is your first time dealing with unemployment claims, you might want to check if your company has an employment attorney or HR consultant who can review your response before submitting it. They can help ensure you're providing the right level of detail without over-sharing information that isn't relevant. Also, keep in mind that NYS Department of Labor maintains records of these responses, so consistency is important if you have multiple claims from former employees over time.

Glad to hear you're feeling better! Just remember that even after the 5 paid days from your employer, you need to follow up on your state benefits application. They don't automatically kick in - the two systems are separate. And don't return to work until you're fully cleared, even if there's pressure from your job. Your health comes first!

Hope you recover fully soon! One thing I wanted to add that might help others reading this - if you're having trouble getting your employer to provide the required COVID sick pay, you can also contact the New York State Attorney General's office. They have a worker protection unit that handles violations of the COVID sick leave law. I had to use this when my previous employer tried to claim they "didn't know" about the requirement. The AG's office got them to pay up within a week. Just another resource to keep in mind if anyone runs into employer pushback on this.

Also keep in mind that if you do owe money, you have appeal rights. Don't just accept an overpayment determination if you think it's wrong. You have 30 days from the notice date to file an appeal with supporting documentation.

I was in a similar situation last year and the anxiety was terrible! One thing that really helped me was calling the Overpayment Unit directly at 1-888-209-8124. They can tell you right over the phone if there's any overpayment on your account without you having to wait for a notice. The hold times can be long but it's worth it for peace of mind. Also, if you do find out you owe money, ask about a waiver - sometimes if it was their error or there were extenuating circumstances, they'll waive part or all of the overpayment.

Update: My payment from Tuesday did go to KeyBank! But now I'm anxiously waiting for the card. Called the KeyBank number and they confirmed it was mailed yesterday, so hopefully I'll have it by next week. Thanks everyone for your help!

Great to hear you got it sorted out! Just a heads up - once you get the KeyBank card, you can also set up online access at keybank.com to check your balance and transactions without having to call. Makes it way easier to track when future payments hit your account. Hope your card arrives quickly!