I'm also a freelancer dealing with this exact situation! Reading through everyone's responses, it sounds like the consensus is to submit multiple types of documentation together rather than relying on PayPal statements alone. I've been putting together a package with my PayPal business transaction reports, last year's Schedule C, the few 1099s I do have, and some client invoices. One thing I'm wondering - has anyone had success submitting a brief cover letter explaining their documentation? I'm thinking of writing something short that explains why I use PayPal for most payments and how the documents all connect to show my self-employment income. Thanks for all the helpful advice in this thread!

I went through this exact process last year as a freelance photographer! PayPal statements definitely work, but like others mentioned, you need to be strategic about how you present them. What really helped me was organizing everything chronologically and creating a simple Excel sheet that showed: Client Name | Service Date | PayPal Transaction ID | Amount | Tax Year Reported. I also highlighted all the business transactions in my PayPal CSV download and removed personal stuff completely. NYSDOL processed my claim pretty quickly once they had clean, organized documentation. Pro tip: if you have repeat clients, include a note showing the ongoing business relationship - it helps establish you as a legitimate freelancer rather than someone doing occasional odd jobs. The combination of PayPal records + Schedule C + any invoices you have should definitely be sufficient!

same boat here, lost my job in early 2023 and didn't file because I thought I'd find something quick... big mistake

I was in a similar situation a few months ago - didn't file for almost 10 months after losing my job due to family issues. When I finally applied through my.ny.gov, I was surprised to learn that even though my original benefit year had expired, I could still potentially qualify based on any work I had during a different base period. The system automatically checks all possible base periods to see if you have enough qualifying wages. Even if you only worked part-time or temporarily during the past 18 months, it might be enough. Don't let anyone discourage you from trying - the application is free and you'll get a definitive answer about your eligibility. Worst case scenario, you're in the same position you're in now.

I totally get that anxiety - I was in the same headspace when I was waiting for mine last year. The good news is that if you were laid off (like it sounds like you were), those claims typically have a much higher approval rate since it's not a voluntary quit or misconduct situation. Most determination letters I've seen for layoffs are approvals, so try not to stress too much about denial. The waiting is brutal though - I remember checking my mailbox and online account obsessively every day. Hang in there, it should come through soon!

I'm in a similar situation - filed my claim 10 days ago after being laid off and still waiting for the determination letter. The uncertainty is really stressful, especially when you're trying to budget and plan for the weeks ahead. From what I've been reading online, it seems like NYS DOL is still dealing with backlogs from the pandemic era, which might be contributing to the delays. I've been trying to stay patient but it's hard when bills are piling up. Has anyone tried reaching out to their local assemblyperson or senator's office? I heard sometimes they can help expedite things or at least get you a status update.

Just went through this myself. The weekly benefits helped but honestly the job search resources were more valuable long term. They connected me with a career counselor and helped me update my resume. There are also workshops on interviewing and networking. If you're in certain industries they might approve retraining programs too. The whole process took about 3 weeks from filing to getting my first payment.

One thing nobody mentioned - you have to report ANY income you earn while collecting, even if it's just a few hours of freelance work. They'll reduce your benefits dollar for dollar over a certain amount. And if you don't report it and they find out later, you could owe money back. NYS Department of Labor is pretty good at catching unreported income so be honest on your weekly claims.

I tried to get into one of these programs six months ago and it was such a nightmare dealing with NYS Department of Labor. They kept asking for more documentation and then when I finally got approved the program was full. The whole system is designed to make you give up honestly.

Just to add - there's also something called WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) funding that can help with training costs. It's separate from regular unemployment but you can sometimes combine them. Your local workforce development office would know more about what's available in your area.