OP, just to be super clear on the process: file your initial claim on ny.gov, then you'll need to file weekly claims every week to keep getting benefits. Don't miss those weekly filings or you'll have more headaches. And start your job search log immediately since you'll need to show you're actively looking for work.

Just want to echo what everyone else is saying - file TODAY if possible! I made a similar mistake when I first lost my job and waited almost 2 months thinking I'd find something quickly. Even though I lost those weeks of backpay, I still ended up getting benefits for several months after that which really helped me get through a tough period. The application process on ny.gov is pretty straightforward, and once you get your first payment it's such a relief. Don't let the regret about waiting stop you from getting the help you need going forward. You've got this!

just checking in - same boat here! been waiting 5 weeks for my fact finding to finish. at least we're not alone in this mess lol

I went through this exact same situation last year when my retail job ended due to store closure. It took about 7 weeks for my fact finding to complete, but I did get approved with full back pay. One thing that helped me was gathering any additional documentation about the business closure - like news articles, lease termination notices, or anything showing it was permanent. You can upload these through your NY.gov account under "Upload Documents" even if they didn't specifically request them. Also, if you have any contact info for HR or management from the restaurant, having them available to verify employment details can speed things up if DOL needs to reach them. Hang in there - the waiting is the worst part but most legitimate claims do get approved eventually!

The system is so confusing about timing! They should make it clearer that you lose benefits if you don't file immediately. I almost made the same mistake when I got laid off last year. Fortunately my friend told me to file right away or I would have lost thousands.

Don't beat yourself up about waiting - you're definitely not alone in this situation! I work in HR and see this all the time. People think they need to exhaust all job search options first, but unemployment benefits are there to bridge the gap while you look. File today and start your weekly certifications right away. Also, make sure you're actively job searching since you'll need to report your search activities. Good luck with both the filing process and your job hunt!

I went through this exact situation last year! @Carmen Lopez, you're absolutely right to apply for partial unemployment. One thing that helped me was keeping detailed records of my work hours and earnings each week before filing my weekly claim. The NYS Department of Labor has a partial benefit rate table that shows exactly how much you can earn while still getting benefits - I think for most people you can earn about 25% of your weekly benefit amount without any reduction, then they deduct 25 cents for every dollar you earn above that. Also make sure your part-time employer knows you're collecting unemployment so they don't report anything incorrectly to the state.

Just want to echo what others have said about being super thorough with your record-keeping! I've been on partial unemployment for about 3 months now while working at a coffee shop 15-20 hours a week. One tip that saved me a lot of headaches - I take a photo of my work schedule each week and keep all my pay stubs in a folder. The NYS Department of Labor can ask for documentation at any time, and having everything organized makes the weekly filing process so much smoother. Also, don't be discouraged if your first partial payment seems lower than expected - it took me a couple weeks to understand exactly how they calculate the deductions. The system actually works pretty well once you get the hang of it!

just focus on getting your claim filed properly and doing your job searches. thats all they care about for regular unemployment

I can confirm this - I just went through the unemployment process in NY last month after being laid off from my retail job. No drug testing whatsoever. They only ask about your work history, reason for separation, and whether you're able and available to work. The whole process was actually pretty straightforward online through the NY.gov website. Just make sure you have all your employment info ready (dates, employer details, etc.) when you file your initial claim.