I'm going through something similar right now - filed about 10 days ago and still waiting. From what I've learned lurking in these forums, the 10-day employer response window seems pretty standard, but the actual processing time varies a lot depending on your situation. Since you mentioned your employer was disorganized, there's a good chance they might not even respond at all, which could actually work in your favor. Keep documenting everything and filing those weekly claims like others have said. The waiting is definitely stressful but it sounds like most people do get resolved one way or another within a month or so.

I just went through this process a few months ago and can confirm what others have said about the 10-day employer response window. One thing that really helped me was keeping a detailed record of my separation - I wrote down the exact date, circumstances, and any witnesses present when I was laid off. Even though my employer didn't contest the claim, having that documentation ready gave me peace of mind. Also, don't be discouraged if it takes the full 4-6 weeks - the system is backed up but it does work. Since you were laid off due to budget cuts, that's usually pretty straightforward for them to process once they get to it.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this - the NY unemployment system is absolutely broken! I went through something similar a few months ago where I was stuck in "waiting week" limbo for almost 2 months. What finally worked for me was a combination of things: first, I logged into the desktop site instead of mobile and found a hidden identity verification task that wasn't showing up on my phone. Second, I sent that email to the commissioner's office that someone mentioned (nysdolcommissioner@labor.ny.gov) with "URGENT PAYMENT DELAY" in the subject line. But honestly, what got me the fastest results was using claimyr.com to actually get through to a real person - the agent I spoke with was able to see that my account had some kind of technical hold that only they could remove. All my backpay hit my account 2 days later. Don't give up on those payments you're owed! Even though you found a new job, you're still entitled to get paid for those weeks you were properly unemployed and certifying. The system makes it seem hopeless but there are ways to get through to the right people who can actually fix these issues.

I'm experiencing the exact same issue! Filed in early March after being laid off, got approved with a $385 weekly benefit amount, but I've been stuck in "waiting week" status for 4 weeks now with $0 payments. I've certified every week correctly and there are no obvious error messages in my account. After reading through all these comments, I'm definitely going to try logging in from my laptop instead of just my phone app to see if there are hidden verification tasks. It's insane that the mobile site apparently hides important information! I'm also going to try that commissioner email approach and possibly use claimyr.com if nothing else works. It's both frustrating and somewhat reassuring to see so many others dealing with this same broken system. The fact that they can approve claims but then have these hidden technical holds without properly notifying people is just ridiculous. Thanks OP for posting this - at least now I know there are actual solutions that have worked for people instead of just endless calling with no results!

Three weeks isn't that bad honestly. My cousin waited 2 months for his decision last spring. The judges are overwhelmed with cases right now.

I went through a similar situation last year and the waiting is absolutely brutal. Three weeks is actually pretty normal timing - mine took about 4 weeks after the hearing. The fact that your employer barely participated and couldn't provide documentation is definitely a good sign for your case. In the meantime, have you looked into emergency rental assistance programs? Many counties in NY have programs that can help with rent while you're waiting for the appeal decision. Also make sure you're applying for food assistance if you haven't already - you can do it online through myBenefits.ny.gov. Hang in there!

Just make sure you understand the work search requirements! You'll need to document that you're actively looking for jobs that accommodate your restrictions. The NYS Department of Labor takes this seriously.

I'm actually going through something similar right now - my disability benefits end in about 6 months and I'm already starting to research this process. One thing I learned from my case worker is that you should start documenting your job search capabilities before your disability ends. Even if you can't actively apply yet, you can research positions that would work with your restrictions and keep notes. This shows the Department of Labor that you're serious about transitioning back to work. Also, don't forget to check if your employer has any return-to-work programs or if they're required to hold a position for you under FMLA - that could affect your unemployment eligibility timing.

Been there! The hardest part is just getting started honestly. Once you get into the rhythm of filing your weekly claims it becomes routine.

Just wanted to add something that helped me when I was in your situation - make sure you have all your employer information ready before you start the application. You'll need things like your employer's full business name, address, phone number, and the dates you worked there. Also gather your pay stubs from the last few months if you have them. Having everything organized beforehand makes the online application process much smoother. The my.ny.gov site can be a bit slow sometimes, so don't get discouraged if it takes a while to load pages. And remember, even though you're stressed about rent, try to be patient with the process - it really does work once you get through the initial setup!