just file and see what happens, they'll tell you if you qualify or not

I went through something similar a few months ago. Even though I was classified as 1099, I still filed because like others mentioned, sometimes companies misclassify workers. In my case, NYS Department of Labor looked at the details of my work arrangement and determined I should have been an employee based on the level of control the company had over my work. It took about 6 weeks to get a decision, but I ended up qualifying for benefits. The key factors they considered were that I worked set hours, used company equipment, and my work was essential to their core business operations rather than a specialized project. Definitely worth filing - you've got nothing to lose by trying.

The whole system is designed to trip you up I swear. Last time I filed they made me wait forever just because I put the wrong date somewhere. But yeah definitely wait until you're actually unemployed or they'll find some reason to delay everything.

Just want to add that when you do file after your last day, make sure you have all your documentation ready - your final pay stub, any separation paperwork from your employer, and exact dates of employment. NYS DOL will ask for your employer's information too, so have that contact info handy. The online system is usually fastest, but expect it to be slow during peak hours (Monday mornings are brutal). Good luck with the transition!

last week i had to try like 8 times to get thru when claimin my partial hours they really need to fix there system im so sick of this!!!!!

I've been dealing with this same exact issue for the past two weeks! The system keeps cutting me off right when I try to enter my work hours. What finally worked for me was calling the main line (888-209-8124) at exactly 8:00 AM on Monday morning and speaking very slowly and clearly when entering numbers. Also, I learned that if you're working different hours each day, don't try to enter a weekly total - the system gets confused. Enter each day separately like: Monday 4 hours, Tuesday 6 hours, etc. Still took me 3 tries but at least I got through eventually. The whole system is such a mess but hang in there!

Good news - I just checked the NYSDOL website and they've implemented a new processing system as of March 2025 that's supposed to expedite claims. According to their update, most eligible claims should now be receiving payments within 10 business days after the employer notification process. If you've been waiting longer than that, there's likely a specific issue with your claim that needs addressing. Keep trying to reach an agent, and in the meantime, check your message inbox on your NY.gov account for any notices requiring additional information.

One last tip - if you do manage to speak with an agent, be sure to ask them to note in your file that you're experiencing financial hardship due to rent being due. This specific notation can flag your claim for expedited processing in their system. Also ask them to check if there are any "non-monetary determinations" pending on your claim, as these are often invisible to you but can hold up payment.

just went thru this last month. its gonna take forever to get someone on the phone but once u do its fixed pretty quick

Same thing happened to me a few months ago and I was freaking out! I ended up calling first thing Monday morning at exactly 8am and got through after about 45 minutes on hold. The rep was actually really helpful and backdated my certification right away. Got my payment 3 days later. Definitely set those weekly reminders though - learned my lesson the hard way! Good luck getting through to them 🤞