Keep filing your weekly claims even if your employer contests! A lot of people stop filing thinking they have to wait for the decision but you'll lose those weeks if you don't certify. You can always pay back overpayments later if needed but you can't go back and claim weeks you missed.

Just wanted to add that if your employer does contest the claim, don't panic! I went through adjudication last year and it took about 3-4 weeks to get a determination. The fact that you have documentation about the safety issues you reported could actually work in your favor - retaliation for reporting workplace safety violations is illegal and can strengthen your case. NYS Department of Labor adjudicators do consider the circumstances around terminations. Keep detailed records of everything and stay on top of your weekly certifications like Santiago mentioned. The process is stressful but manageable if you stay organized.

Guys I finally got through today after 3 weeks of trying! Keep at it, don't give up!

Same struggle here! I've been calling for 2 weeks straight with no luck. The system is clearly overwhelmed. I'm going to try the early morning strategy that @Kiara Fisherman suggested - calling right at 8am sharp. Also thinking about trying that paid service @Paige Cantoni mentioned, even though $20 feels steep. At this point my time is worth more than that! Has anyone had luck with the online portal or is calling really the only way to resolve complex issues?

This whole gig economy unemployment thing is such a mess. Half the time they don't know how to handle our situations and we get stuck in adjudication forever while they try to figure out if we qualify or not. The system wasn't designed for people like us.

I'm in a similar situation as an Uber driver in NYC - my earnings have dropped significantly over the past few months. From what I've researched, you'll definitely want to gather all your documentation before applying. Besides the 1099s and bank statements others mentioned, I'd also recommend keeping your Uber driver app earnings statements and any tax returns where you reported this income. The NYS Department of Labor website has a section specifically for independent contractors that walks through the eligibility requirements. One thing I learned is that they calculate your benefit amount differently than for traditional employees, so don't expect the same formula. Also consider applying sooner rather than later since there can be waiting periods and backlogs like others have mentioned.

Be careful about the timing requirements! NYS Department of Labor is really strict about the 20-day registration deadline once you become liable. If you miss it, there can be penalties. Also keep in mind that seasonal businesses or businesses with irregular employment patterns might have different rules. You'll want to track your payroll carefully to know exactly when you hit that $300 threshold.

The whole system is such a pain honestly. I've been dealing with NYS Department of Labor for years with my restaurant and they change the rules constantly. Just make sure you keep detailed records of everything because they WILL ask for documentation later.

Pro tip: take screenshots of everything and keep a spreadsheet. NY unemployment system is notorious for glitches

Hey! I went through the exact same thing last month. That waiting week showing $0 is normal - it's unpaid by design. The real issue is why nothing else is showing up after 04/28. Check if you have any pending issues under "Claim Status" - could be identity verification, work search requirements, or they need more info. Also make sure you're certifying on the right days (usually Sunday-Tuesday). If everything looks clean on your end, definitely call or use one of those callback services people mentioned. Don't stop certifying though - you'll lose those weeks if you do! Keep records of everything in case you need to prove you were certifying.