The whole system is ridiculous honestly. They make it so complicated to figure out if you even qualify and then make you wait weeks for an answer while you have no income. I got disqualified for 'quitting without good cause' even though my workplace was completely toxic and unsafe.

Just apply anyway OP, worst case scenario they say no but at least you'll know for sure. The application process itself doesn't cost anything and you might be surprised by the outcome.

Let me give you the full rundown of what worked for me. First, try getting through to regular unemployment using claimyr.com - they'll handle the hold time. If that doesn't resolve your issue, reach out to your local assembly member (find them at nyassembly.gov). As a last resort, the governor's office number is 518-474-8390, but they usually just redirect you. Document everything, including who you talked to and when. Keep all your paperwork organized. The system is overwhelmed but persistence is key. Good luck!

Been dealing with the same nightmare for 2 months now. What finally worked for me was filing a complaint with the NY Department of Labor's Inspector General office at 518-457-8746. They actually have authority to investigate delays and can push your case through faster than going through regular channels. Also try emailing the DOL Commissioner directly - sometimes those emails get flagged for priority review. Don't give up, the squeaky wheel gets the grease with these agencies!

If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to file your claim or check on adjudication status, I used a service called Claimyr that helped me reach an actual agent. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Really helped when I couldn't get through the regular phone lines.

Just remember you still need to be able and available for work while collecting benefits. If you're still providing full-time care, that could be an issue with your weekly claims.

If it's just a weekly cert issue you might be able to fix it online through your my.ny.gov account. Check if there's a pending questionnaire or something you missed.

I had success getting through by calling the 888-209-8124 number right at 8:00 AM on a Wednesday. The key is to call exactly when they open - I actually started dialing at 7:59 AM. Still had to wait about 45 minutes but that's way better than the 2+ hours I was waiting when calling later in the day. Also make sure you have all your info ready - claim number, SSN, PIN, and details about what happened with your certification. The agent was actually really helpful once I got through and was able to see exactly why my cert was rejected (I had accidentally put the wrong dates for a part-time job). Good luck!

Just wanted to add that even if you can't get regular unemployment, there might be small business assistance programs through the state or SBA that could help with your catering business. Don't give up on entrepreneurship just because of a slow period!

I'm in a similar boat with my photography business - revenue has been really inconsistent this year. From what I've researched, New York State does have some programs for struggling small businesses even if we can't get regular unemployment. You might want to check out the Empire State Development Corporation's website for business grants and low-interest loans. Also, some local workforce development boards offer training programs that come with stipends while you learn new skills that could complement your catering business. It's worth exploring all options before having to take a traditional W-2 job if you want to keep your business going.