Just want to add that even if you think you have good cause, be prepared for your claim to go into adjudication. This means they'll investigate your case which can take several weeks. During this time you won't receive any payments. Make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even during adjudication though, or you could lose benefits for those weeks if you're eventually approved.

Have you tried talking to your manager or HR about this issue in writing? Before you quit, I'd recommend sending an email documenting your original availability agreement and requesting accommodation for your school schedule. This creates a paper trail that shows you tried to resolve the issue before leaving. If they refuse or ignore your request, that strengthens your case for "good cause" if you do end up quitting. Also, check if your employee handbook mentions anything about scheduling accommodations - sometimes there are policies they're supposed to follow that they're not honoring.

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.

ugh this is exactly what im worried about too... my benefits end next month and i still havent found anything decent. the job market is terrible right now

I'm in a similar situation - my benefits are ending soon too. From what I've researched, New York's Extended Benefits program is tied to specific unemployment rate triggers that have to be met at the state level. The program can provide up to 13 additional weeks, but only when the state's unemployment rate is significantly higher than it was in previous years. I'd recommend calling NYS DOL directly or checking their website for current trigger status, since this changes based on monthly employment data. Even if extensions aren't available right now, they could become available if economic conditions change.

one thing i learned is make sure you file your weekly claim every week even if your claim is pending or in adjudication. if you miss weeks you cant go back and get those payments later. learned that the hard way and lost out on like $1200

Just went through this process myself a few months ago. One thing nobody mentioned is that you need to have worked at least 2 quarters in your base period to qualify, and your base period is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you've only been at your warehouse job for 8 months, make sure those months fall within the right time frame. Also, if your hours got cut but you're still employed, you might qualify for partial unemployment benefits which could help bridge the gap while you look for something better.

They can send you job postings but you're only required to accept 'suitable work' as defined by NYS Department of Labor guidelines. Suitable work considers your skills, experience, commute distance, and wage level. You can't be forced to take just anything, especially in your first few months of unemployment.

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.