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.

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.

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.

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.

Just went through this process myself a few months ago! @Liam O'Sullivan is spot on about the $300 threshold. One thing that helped me was calling the NYS Department of Labor early in the morning (like 8 AM sharp) - seemed to have better luck getting through then. Also, make sure you understand the difference between employees and independent contractors because that affects your UI liability. If you're just doing consulting work solo with 1099 contractors, you're probably not liable yet. But definitely get clarity before you start paying anyone regularly!

update????? did u ever get thru?

So glad you were able to get through and resolve your issue! Identity verification problems seem to be really common right now - I've seen several people mention that in other posts. It's frustrating that such a simple fix can hold up payments for weeks, but at least you got it sorted out. Hopefully your payments come through quickly! Thanks for updating us on what worked - this thread will definitely help other people in the same situation.