I'm actually going through something very similar right now - my manager has been documenting every minor mistake and I can tell they're building a paper trail. This whole thread has been such a relief to read because I was convinced that getting fired would automatically disqualify me from unemployment benefits. It's really encouraging to see that NYS Department of Labor actually looks at the circumstances rather than just rubber-stamping whatever the employer claims. The documentation advice everyone's giving is spot on - I've started keeping copies of all my emails, especially ones where I'm asking for clarification or showing that I'm trying to address any concerns they raise. It sounds like the key distinction is between genuine misconduct (like theft or deliberate rule violations) versus performance issues or personality conflicts with management. For anyone else dealing with this stress, it seems like the takeaway is to file for benefits even if you're not 100% sure you'll qualify - worst case they deny it and you can appeal, but you might be surprised and get approved on the initial determination.

This thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm actually in a very similar situation where my new supervisor seems to be looking for any excuse to write me up. It's such a relief to learn that being fired doesn't automatically disqualify you from unemployment benefits in New York. The distinction between misconduct and performance issues really makes sense - it sounds like NYS Department of Labor understands that sometimes terminations happen due to personality conflicts or management style differences rather than genuine wrongdoing. I'm definitely taking everyone's advice about documentation seriously. I've already started saving emails where I ask for clarification on tasks and keeping copies of any feedback I receive. Reading about people's successful claims even after being fired for "performance issues" gives me hope that I'd have options if the worst happens. Thanks for asking this question - it's helping so many of us who are dealing with similar workplace stress!

I'm going through the exact same thing! Filed 3 weeks ago and still stuck in pending with no explanation. It's so frustrating because I'm running out of savings and need these payments to keep up with rent. I've tried calling dozens of times but can never get through. Has anyone had success with emailing them directly, or is calling really the only way? Also seeing mixed opinions about Claimyr - has anyone here actually used it successfully? At this point I'm willing to try anything that might work.

I'm dealing with the exact same situation - filed about 5 weeks ago and still stuck in pending with no payments received. It's incredibly stressful, especially when you're already struggling financially. I've been trying the early morning calling strategy too but no luck getting through. One thing that helped me was creating a detailed log of all my claim activities and call attempts with dates/times - apparently this can be useful if you eventually need to escalate to a supervisor or your local representative. Also double-check that you're not missing any messages or required documents in your online account, sometimes there are hidden requirements that aren't obvious. I'm also seriously considering the Claimyr option at this point. $20 feels like a lot when you're broke, but if it means finally getting someone on the phone to figure out what's wrong, it might be worth it. Keep your head up - from what I'm reading here, most people eventually get their claims processed and receive backpay, it's just a matter of persistence and maybe a little luck with the system.

The whole system is a nightmare honestly. Been dealing with NYS Department of Labor for years and they make everything unnecessarily complicated. Just be prepared for delays, lost paperwork, and contradictory information from different representatives.

@Lena Kowalski I just went through this process myself a few months ago! Here are some key tips: 1) File your claim immediately - don't wait even a day because that waiting week starts when you file, not when you lost your job. 2) Have your bank routing/account info ready for direct deposit setup. 3) Create your NY.gov ID account first before starting the unemployment application - it'll save time. 4) Take screenshots of every page as you go through the application in case the system glitches. 5) The weekly certification opens on Sundays and you have until the following Saturday to file it. Set a phone reminder! The process is definitely overwhelming at first but once you get into the routine it becomes manageable. You've got this!

The 'average' is misleading because it depends entirely on your work history. Someone who worked minimum wage jobs will get way less than someone who had a professional salary. Your benefit rate is based on the wages you earned during your base period, not some arbitrary average. Check your online account on my.ny.gov to see your actual calculated benefit amount once you file.

Just went through this myself a few months ago. With your $52k salary, you'll likely qualify for close to the maximum weekly benefit which is around $504. The calculation is roughly 50% of your average weekly wage during your highest earning quarter in the base period. One thing to keep in mind - there's usually a one week waiting period before you start receiving benefits, so plan for that gap. Also make sure you have all your employer information ready when you file online, it speeds up the process significantly. The whole approval took about 2-3 weeks for me once I submitted everything correctly.

I filed mine on a Sunday evening and had no issues. Like others said, the online system is available 24/7. Just make sure you're using the official my.ny.gov site and not some scam website.

I can confirm what others are saying - timing doesn't affect processing speed at all. I filed my claim at 11 PM on a Thursday night and it went through just fine. The key thing is to file ASAP after your last day of work like everyone mentioned. One tip: have your previous employer's information handy (company name, address, dates of employment, reason for separation) because you'll need all that during the application process. The system will walk you through everything step by step, so don't stress too much about it!