Hey Santiago! I went through the exact same confusion when I first started certifying. One thing that really helped me was creating a simple weekly routine - I set a reminder on my phone for Sunday mornings to do my certification, and I keep a notebook where I jot down my job search activities throughout the week (even just a quick note like "applied to cashier job at Target on Wednesday" is enough). For your part-time work, definitely report that $180 - they'll calculate how it affects your benefits automatically. The system is actually pretty forgiving as long as you're honest. You've got this! The first few weeks feel scary but it becomes second nature quickly.

@Santiago Diaz I totally get your anxiety about this - I was terrified of messing up my first certification too! One tip that saved me: before you start your weekly certification, gather everything you need first. Have your job search activities written down (company names, dates, how you applied), any earnings info, and answers to the basic questions ready. The questions are pretty standard each week - did you work, are you able to work, are you available for work, did you look for work, etc. Also, the system usually saves your progress if you need to step away, so don't feel rushed. You're doing great by asking questions first - that shows you care about doing it right!

Just apply anyway! Even if you're slightly over the income limit, you might qualify for subsidized plans through the marketplace. And if your unemployment runs out or your income changes, you can update your application.

I'm going through this exact same process right now! One thing I learned is that NYS has a "simplified application" process where if you're already receiving certain benefits (like SNAP or unemployment), they can sometimes fast-track your Medicaid application. Also, even if your unemployment income puts you slightly over the regular Medicaid limit, you might still qualify for Essential Plan which has higher income limits and very low premiums. The NYS of Health website has a calculator that can give you a quick estimate of what you might qualify for based on your unemployment amount. Definitely worth applying - the worst they can say is no, and you might be surprised what options are available!

just wanted to say good luck with the application! being on unemployment is stressful enough without worrying about food. the system is there to help people in situations exactly like yours.

Just to add some specifics that might help - when you apply online at myBenefits.ny.gov, make sure you have your Social Security card, ID, and that unemployment award letter ready to upload. The system will ask you to verify your identity, so having all your documents ready speeds things up. Also, if you qualify, you might be eligible for expedited processing (benefits within 7 days) since your income is pretty low. Worth asking about when you apply!

I was in the same boat when I first started - the terminology definitely makes it sound more complicated than it actually is! You're absolutely doing everything correctly. The weekly certification is just the formal name for that weekly process where you answer questions about your job search, availability, and any work/income. One tip that helped me stay organized: I created a simple spreadsheet to track my job applications with dates, company names, and how I applied. Makes it much easier when you're answering those work search questions each week. Also, don't stress if you see different status messages in your account - sometimes it takes a few days for everything to update after you certify. Keep doing what you're doing and you'll be fine!

I went through this exact same confusion when I first started collecting! The word "certification" made it sound like there was some official document I needed to submit separately. But like everyone else has said, you're doing it perfectly - that weekly online process where you answer the questions IS your certification. One thing that helped me understand it better: think of it like signing a legal document each week where you're certifying (swearing) that your answers are true. That's why it's called certification rather than just "filing." The consequences for providing false information are serious, which is why they use that formal language. You're being smart by asking these questions upfront rather than assuming - shows you're taking the process seriously, which is exactly what you should be doing.

Just be prepared for the weekly job search requirements. You'll need to document that you're actively looking for work even though your spouse is employed. Keep track of all your applications and interviews in case they audit your job search log.

I went through this exact situation last year when my husband was working but I lost my job due to company downsizing. You're absolutely eligible for unemployment benefits - they only look at your individual employment record, not your spouse's income. Just make sure you have all your previous employer information ready when you apply online. The key things they'll verify are that you worked enough quarters, earned sufficient wages in your base period, and that you're unemployed through no fault of your own. Since you were laid off, you should meet all the requirements. Don't let anyone discourage you from applying - you paid into this system and you're entitled to these benefits when you need them.