Your former employer is probably getting nervous about their experience rating, but that's not your problem to worry about! The system is designed so that employers who lay off workers contribute more to the fund - it's basically an incentive for them to maintain stable employment. You earned those benefits through your work history and you have every right to collect them as long as you're eligible. Don't let them make you feel guilty about using a safety net you paid into. Just keep doing your weekly certifications and job search requirements, and you'll be fine.

Just want to add that in New York, your maximum benefit duration is typically 26 weeks, but this can be extended during high unemployment periods. Your employer's quarterly UI tax contributions are based on their "reserve ratio" - basically how much they've paid in versus how much has been paid out for their former employees' claims. So yes, your claim affects their future rates, but that's exactly how the system is designed to work. The whole point is that employers who frequently lay off workers should contribute more to support the safety net. Don't let them guilt you into thinking you're doing something wrong by collecting benefits you legitimately earned!

The unemployment system is so frustrating!! They make it seem like once you quit you're automatically screwed but there are definitely exceptions. I know someone who quit because their boss was making racist comments and they got approved after the investigation. Just be really detailed about WHY you had to leave when you file.

I went through something similar about 6 months ago. The key thing I learned is that NYS DOL really does look at each case individually when it comes to voluntary quits. Mental health issues caused by a toxic work environment can definitely qualify as good cause, but you need to be prepared to explain how you tried to address the problems first. Did you talk to HR, your supervisor, or document any incidents? Even if you don't have tons of written evidence, they'll still review your case. I'd recommend filing the claim and being very thorough in explaining the timeline of events that led to your decision to leave. The worst they can do is deny it, but you might be surprised - and you can always appeal if needed.

Make sure you're also staying current on your disability insurance payments if you have employees. That's separate from unemployment tax but also goes through NYS Department of Labor reporting.

For what it's worth, I just went through this process myself as a new business owner. The key is to make sure you register for your employer account first if you haven't already - you'll need your Federal EIN and some basic business info. Once you're in the system, the quarterly deadlines are April 30, July 31, October 31, and January 31. Don't wait until the last minute because the system tends to be slower on due dates. Also keep good records of all your payments - the confirmation numbers are important if there are any disputes later.

Just wanted to update - mine finally got approved after 11 business days. Didn't get any notification though, just had to keep checking my account. Once it cleared, my first payment showed up 3 days later. Hang in there!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - filed 10 days ago and still stuck on identity verification. It's so frustrating not having any clear timeline or way to check the status beyond just logging in repeatedly. Has anyone tried contacting their local assembly member's office? I heard sometimes they can help expedite these cases, but not sure if that actually works for identity verification delays.

Just wanted to add that if your claim goes into adjudication for any reason, the timeline can be much longer. Mine was in adjudication for 6 weeks because they needed to review why I left my previous job. Make sure all your information is accurate when you file because any discrepancies can trigger additional review.

I'm going through this same process right now and it's so stressful not knowing when that first payment will come! Based on what I'm reading here, it sounds like 2-3 weeks is typical if everything goes smoothly. @Connor O'Neill - since you filed last Thursday and already did your first weekly claim on Sunday, you're doing everything right. The "claim filed" status is normal at this stage. I'd give it another week or two before getting too worried. In the meantime, maybe look into local food banks or assistance programs to help stretch your savings while you wait. Hang in there!