Just remember to document everything! Keep copies of your application, any correspondence with NYS Department of Labor, and notes about your separation. If your employer tries to lie, having documentation helps your case during any appeal process.

Thanks for sharing this question - I'm actually going through something similar right now! I filed my claim about 10 days ago and haven't heard anything yet, so I'm assuming my employer probably got the Request for Information form by now. It's nerve-wracking not knowing what they're going to say, especially when you didn't leave on the best terms. Has anyone here had experience with what happens if there are conflicting stories between what you reported and what your employer says?

Just wanted to say I was in a similar situation last year and it worked out fine. The application process seems overwhelming but it's really not that bad once you start. Make sure you have your employment history ready with dates and employer info.

I just went through this process myself a few months ago and wanted to share what helped me. Beyond the basic eligibility requirements others mentioned, I'd suggest gathering all your employment documents before you start - W-2s, pay stubs, and exact dates of employment for all jobs in the past 18 months. Also, start thinking about your job search strategy now because you'll need to begin those 3 weekly activities right after filing. One tip: create a simple spreadsheet to track your work search activities from day one - include company name, position, how you applied, and date. It makes the weekly certifications much easier and you'll be prepared if they audit your claim later.

I feel u... system is straight garbage rn. took me 3 weeks to fix my account 🤮

Been through this exact same nightmare with my brother's account last month. Here's what finally worked for us: Call the 800-833-3000 tech line first thing in the morning (like 8:01 AM) - way better chance of getting through. Have EVERYTHING ready: SSN, old passwords, security questions, phone numbers they have on file, etc. If the reset tool on ny.gov isn't working, it's usually because there's a security flag on the account. Only phone support can clear that. Pro tip: if you get disconnected (happens all the time), immediately call back and tell them you got cut off - they can sometimes see the previous call attempt and fast track you. The Bronx career center on 149th is nice but yeah they literally can't touch account issues - learned that the hard way 😅 Hang in there! Once you get the right person on the phone it takes like 10 minutes to fix.

Whatever you do, don't just walk out. Try to get them to fire you instead if possible. Much easier to get UI benefits when you're terminated versus when you quit, even with good cause.

I went through something similar with a toxic supervisor cutting my hours unpredictably. When I filed for unemployment after quitting, I had to attend a phone hearing where they asked detailed questions about each incident. The key things that helped my case were: 1) I had screenshots of my schedule changes, 2) I wrote down specific dates when I was sent home early, and 3) I had a coworker who witnessed the verbal abuse. The NYS Department of Labor approved my claim for "constructive dismissal" since the working conditions became intolerable. Start documenting everything now - even write down what happened yesterday with the screaming incident while it's fresh in your memory. Include the date, time, what was said, and who witnessed it.

Keep filing those weekly claims no matter what! Even if your initial claim is still pending. That's super important.

I went through this same process about 3 months ago. Filed on a Wednesday and got my first payment exactly 16 days later (so just over 2 weeks). The key is making sure you have all your employment documentation ready in case they ask for it. Also, set up direct deposit if you haven't already - it's faster than waiting for a debit card to arrive in the mail. Don't stress too much about the timing, just keep doing those weekly certifications and check your online account regularly for any requests for additional info.