Just want to add that if you do eventually transition from disability back to work, make sure you understand the timeline for filing unemployment if you end up losing that job. There are specific rules about when you can file after returning from disability leave.

I went through something similar about 8 months ago with a knee injury. One thing that really helped me was documenting everything - keep all your medical records, correspondence with your employer about return-to-work options, and any communications with your disability insurance provider. Even though you can't collect both benefits simultaneously, having good documentation will be crucial if your situation changes (like if you get cleared for light duty but your job can't accommodate it, or when you eventually transition back to work). Also, don't forget to check if your employer offers any supplemental benefits or employee assistance programs that might help bridge the gap during your recovery period.

Just want to add that even if you qualify for unemployment, you'll still need to do the weekly job search requirements unless you get an exemption. With pregnancy restrictions that limit what jobs you can take, this might be tricky. Make sure you understand all the requirements before filing your claim.

Ruby, I went through something similar when I was pregnant with my second child. The key thing to understand is that NYS unemployment law requires you to be "able and available" for work, but medical restrictions don't automatically disqualify you if there are jobs you CAN still do with those restrictions. Since your doctor put you on modified bed rest with a 10-pound lifting restriction, you'd need to show that you're still able to perform other types of work that don't involve heavy lifting - like office work, customer service, etc. Document everything with your employer about the accommodation request, and when you file your claim, emphasize that you're willing and able to work within your medical restrictions. The NYS Department of Labor will evaluate whether there are suitable jobs available for someone with your limitations. Also definitely look into Paid Family Leave as PrinceJoe mentioned - that might be a better fit for your situation.

I'm going through this exact same nightmare right now! Just completed my ID.me verification 2 days ago and I'm still getting that automated message when I call the unemployment line. It's so frustrating because I did everything correctly and got all the confirmation emails, but their system just won't recognize it. This thread has been incredibly helpful though - I was starting to panic that I had somehow messed up the verification process. Reading everyone's experiences is really reassuring that this is just a common glitch with NY's system. Just tried the web portal at labor.ny.gov like so many people suggested and I was able to certify successfully even though the phone system is still being stubborn! It's honestly crazy that this ID.me integration issue is still happening so frequently in 2025 when it's clearly affecting tons of people every week. But I'm really grateful for this community helping each other navigate these frustrating system problems. Definitely saving that technical support number (855-829-3674) just in case I need it if this takes longer than expected. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and making me feel less alone in dealing with this mess!

I'm dealing with this exact same issue right now! Just completed my ID.me verification 3 days ago and I'm still getting that automated message when I call the DOL line. It's so frustrating because I got all the confirmation emails and the green checkmark, but their phone system acts like it never happened. This thread has been incredibly helpful - I was starting to worry I had messed something up during verification. Just tried the web portal at labor.ny.gov like everyone suggested and was able to certify successfully even though the phone system is still being stubborn! What a relief to know there's a workaround. It's honestly ridiculous that NY still hasn't fixed this ID.me integration problem when it's clearly affecting so many people every single week. But I'm really grateful for this community sharing experiences and solutions. Definitely saving that technical support number (855-829-3674) in case I need it if this drags on past the 7 business day timeframe. Thanks everyone for making me feel less alone in dealing with this broken system!

Update: I just got my monetary determination letter today! They calculated my weekly benefit at $578, which is pretty close to the maximum. Looks like my December bonus did help push up my highest quarter earnings. Thanks everyone for your help explaining how this works!

That's great news about getting $578! I'm actually in a similar situation - just got laid off from a job where I made about $48K annually, but I had some freelance work earlier in the year that might boost my base period earnings. Reading through all these explanations really helps me understand what to expect. It's reassuring to see real examples of how the calculations work out in practice. Now I just need to brace myself for the potentially long wait times everyone's mentioning!

Make sure you apply as soon as possible after your last day of work! Don't wait because there's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits start. Also be prepared for potential adjudication if they need to verify your IHSS employment - it's not uncommon for non-traditional work arrangements to require additional review.

Just went through this process myself after my IHSS client moved to assisted living last month. One thing I wish I'd known earlier is to take screenshots of your online application as you go - the system sometimes times out and you lose your progress. Also, when they ask about your "employer," just put down the county or agency that processes your IHSS payments since that's technically who employs you. The whole process took about 3 weeks from application to first payment, so don't panic if it seems slow at first. Good luck Alice!