Just wanted to say good luck with this! It's not easy navigating both systems but it sounds like you're taking the right steps by getting medical clearance first.

I'm in a similar boat - been on SSDI for a year due to chronic fatigue but my condition has improved enough that I could handle remote work. Reading through these responses is really helpful! @Oliver Schulz, when you mention needing medical documentation, does it have to be from the same doctor who originally supported my SSDI claim, or can it be from any treating physician? Also wondering if anyone knows how strict they are about the "actively seeking work" requirement - like do I need to apply to a certain number of jobs per week?

I think the main thing is being honest about your work capacity. If you can work part-time, you might qualify for partial unemployment benefits depending on your earnings. But definitely report everything properly to avoid overpayment issues later.

I went through this exact situation last year! You definitely need to be careful about how you present your work capacity. What worked for me was getting a detailed letter from my doctor specifically outlining what type of work I could do and for how many hours. When I filed with NYS Department of Labor, I was upfront about my limitations but emphasized that I was genuinely seeking work within those parameters. The key is consistency - make sure what you tell unemployment matches what's in your medical records. Also, keep detailed records of your job search efforts because they may ask for proof that you're actively looking for suitable work.

ugh the whole system is so confusing!! why can't they just make it simple like other states do it?? took me forever to figure out the weekly claim thing too

Just want to emphasize what others have said about filing quickly - I made the mistake of waiting a week after my layoff thinking I needed to "settle in" first, and it just delayed everything. The sooner you file with NYS Department of Labor, the sooner that waiting period starts ticking. Also, gather all your employment info beforehand (dates, wages, reason for separation) because the application will ask for specific details and you don't want to have to start over if you're missing something.

I went through this exact same situation about 8 months ago and won my appeal! Here's what really helped me: I created a detailed spreadsheet showing every single work search activity by date, including the method (online application, phone call, in-person visit), company name, position title, and any confirmation numbers or emails I received. Even though I had made the same mistake of doing most activities on one day, the judge appreciated that I had clearly been making genuine efforts to find work. The key is showing good faith compliance with the spirit of the law, even if you didn't technically meet every requirement perfectly. Also, practice explaining your situation clearly and concisely - you'll probably only have 10-15 minutes to present your case. Don't let them intimidate you with all the legal language - just tell your story honestly with your evidence ready!

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now and this thread has been incredibly helpful! One thing I wanted to add - if anyone else is reading this and facing the same problem, make sure you check if your state has any "good cause" exceptions for work search requirements. Sometimes life circumstances (like lack of transportation, caring for family members, or technical issues with job sites) can be valid reasons for not meeting the exact requirements. Also, I noticed some people mentioned using online services to get through to unemployment offices - just be careful about giving personal info to third-party services. The official NYSDOL website has a callback feature that might be safer to try first. Kaiya, I'm rooting for you in your appeal! The fact that you were genuinely trying to find work and have documentation should work in your favor.

I've been through this exact scenario twice in my career - once in retail and once at an office job. Both times I was approved for unemployment benefits. The key thing is that you didn't voluntarily quit your job - you gave proper notice with the intention of fulfilling your obligations, but your employer made the decision to end the employment relationship early. That's considered an involuntary termination. When you file your claim, be upfront about giving notice but emphasize that you were willing and available to work through your notice period. The fact that you have another job starting soon actually works in your favor because it shows you're actively seeking employment and not trying to abuse the system. Just make sure to report your new job start date when filing so they can calculate the benefit period correctly.

I work in HR and deal with these situations regularly. You're absolutely entitled to file for unemployment benefits here. When an employer cuts short a notice period, it becomes their decision to end the employment relationship early - that's a discharge, not a voluntary quit. The NY Department of Labor recognizes this distinction. I'd recommend filing your claim as soon as possible since there can be a waiting period. Be straightforward about the sequence of events: you gave proper notice intending to work through it, but your employer chose to terminate you immediately. Having documentation like texts or emails about the notice and their response will definitely strengthen your case. Don't stress about having another job lined up - you're legitimately unemployed through no fault of your own for those gap weeks.