If you can't find your unemployment insurance number anywhere, you can also try creating a new my.ny.gov account using the same SSN and personal info you used originally. The system should recognize you already have a claim and link you to your existing account automatically. This happened to me when I forgot my login details - it pulled up my claim info right away without needing to remember the specific UI number.

Another option if you're still stuck - check if you have any screenshots on your phone from when you first applied. I always take photos of confirmation screens now because I've learned the hard way that these numbers are easy to lose! Also, if you used direct deposit for your application, your bank might have records of the NYS DOL setup process that could include your claim reference information.

This is actually a really good position to be in! The fact that your employer received an approval letter is huge - it means the system has already determined you're eligible for benefits due to childcare issues. What likely happened is there was a processing error where your denial letter wasn't updated when a human reviewer overturned the automatic denial. I'd recommend bringing both letters to your hearing - the judge will immediately see the contradiction and it should be a quick resolution in your favor. In the meantime, you might want to try calling right when they open (7:30am) for shorter wait times, or check if your online account shows anything different than "pending." Document everything and keep copies of both letters! This kind of system glitch is frustrating but you're actually in a strong position with that employer approval letter as proof.

This exact same thing happened to my sister last year! She got completely contradictory letters too - one denying her claim and another (meant for her employer) approving it for the same reason. Turns out the system had an automated denial that got overridden by a human reviewer, but somehow only the employer's letter got updated properly. The good news is that having the employer approval letter is actually really strong evidence in your favor. When she went to her hearing, the judge took one look at both letters and immediately ruled that she was eligible. The whole thing was resolved in like 10 minutes. My advice: definitely attend the hearing and bring both letters to show the inconsistency. Also try calling super early (like 7:30am when they open) - wait times are usually shorter then. Keep copies of everything! You're in a much better position than most people dealing with unemployment issues.

One more important thing: if you're expecting to be laid off, don't apply until after your last day of work. Applying early can create complications. When you do apply, make sure to have the following ready: - Your SSN - NY State driver's license or ID card number - Your complete work history for the last 18 months (employer names, addresses, phone numbers) - Alien registration card if you're not a US citizen - Form SF8 and SF50 if you were a federal employee - Your DD-214 if you served in the military And remember to claim your weekly benefits every week after you've applied, even if your application is still pending!

Just wanted to add something that might help - if you do get laid off and apply, keep detailed records of everything! Screenshot your application, save confirmation emails, and keep a log of any phone calls or correspondence with the DOL. I learned this the hard way when I had to reapply last year. Having documentation saved me so much time when they asked me to verify information later. Also, if you're in a union, check with your rep - sometimes they have additional resources or can help navigate any issues that come up. Good luck with everything, and I hope the layoffs don't actually happen!

The unemployment rate stuff is all political anyway. They manipulate the numbers to make things look better than they are. I've been looking for work for 4 months and there's nothing out there that pays decent wages.

Just wanted to add that even though NY's unemployment rate is relatively low at 4.2%, don't let that discourage you from your search. The rate measures people actively looking for work, but it doesn't capture underemployment or people who've given up searching. Keep documenting those 3 weekly job contacts properly - I learned the hard way that they do spot-check compliance. Also, start thinking about backup plans for after week 26 since extended benefits are unlikely with current rates. Maybe look into workforce development programs or training opportunities that might be available through your local One-Stop Career Center while you're still collecting.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO SCREW US OVER!! They make the rules so complicated on purpose so we mess up and then they can claw back money later. I've been fighting an overpayment for 8 months now and they still haven't responded to my appeal.

Just want to add that you should also be aware of the work search requirements when doing freelance work. Even if you're earning income that reduces your benefits, you still need to complete your required work search activities each week unless that freelance work qualifies as "work" under their guidelines. I learned this the hard way when I was doing some contract work - I thought since I was "working" I didn't need to do job searches, but NYS DOL disagreed and I got a penalty. The rules around what counts as acceptable work search activity versus actual work can be tricky, so definitely clarify this if you move forward with the freelance opportunity.