I'm in a somewhat similar situation at 65 - took early retirement but now need to return to work due to unexpected expenses. From everything I've read and the experiences shared here, it seems like the key is demonstrating that you're genuinely available and actively seeking work right now, regardless of your previous retirement status. NYS Department of Labor appears to evaluate each case individually during the adjudication process. I'd recommend keeping detailed records of your job search activities from day one, since you'll need to document at least 3 job contacts per week. The stories from @Kristin Frank and @Abigail bergen are really encouraging - it shows that people in our age group who've "unretired" can successfully navigate this process. I think your 35 years of work history will definitely work in your favor when establishing eligibility. Have you considered reaching out to any age-friendly employers or temp agencies that might be more open to hiring older workers? That could help strengthen your case that you're truly available for work.

Based on everyone's experiences shared here, I think you definitely have a good chance of qualifying! The consensus seems to be that NYS Department of Labor evaluates these situations individually, and your 35 years of work history is a huge advantage. I'd recommend applying online and being prepared to clearly explain during the phone interview that while your employment ended, you're now able, available, and actively seeking work. Don't get discouraged by the potential wait times - several people mentioned it took 2-3 weeks for adjudication. Make sure to start documenting your job search activities right away (3 contacts per week minimum) since you'll need those records for your weekly certifications. The success stories from folks like Kristin and Abigail show it's definitely possible for people in similar retirement situations to get approved. Good luck with your application!

This thread has been incredibly helpful for so many people going through similar situations! As someone who works in family services, I wanted to add a few additional resources that might help strengthen your case with NYS Department of Labor. Many counties have Child Care Councils that maintain databases of available slots and average costs - they can often provide official letters documenting the shortage of affordable care in your area. Also, if you're income-eligible, make sure to get on waiting lists for subsidized childcare programs even while you're unemployed - it shows you're actively working toward a sustainable solution. The 211 helpline (dial 2-1-1) can connect you with local childcare resources and may help you find emergency or temporary options while your claim is being processed. One more tip: if you had to use sick days or unpaid time off in the weeks leading up to quitting due to childcare issues, document that too - it shows the problem was already impacting your employment before you had to make the final decision to leave. Everyone's advice about thorough documentation is absolutely correct - NYS takes these cases seriously when you can prove you exhausted all reasonable alternatives.

I'm really sorry you're going through this stressful situation. The childcare system is broken and it puts parents in impossible positions. From everything I've read here, it sounds like you definitely have a strong case for unemployment benefits since lack of affordable childcare is recognized as "good cause" for quitting in New York. The documentation advice everyone has given is excellent - definitely start gathering all those emails, costs, and waiting list information right away. I went through something similar when my daycare suddenly shut down and while the process was nerve-wracking, NYS Department of Labor did approve my claim after about 4 weeks of adjudication. The key was having detailed records of every option I explored and why none were feasible. Don't let the complexity of the process discourage you from applying - you deserve support while you find a sustainable childcare solution. Make sure to apply as soon as possible since there's usually a waiting week before benefits can start. You've got this!

My cousin went through this exact situation when she was finishing her nursing program. The trick is proving you're genuinely available for work despite being in school. She had to show that her clinical rotations were flexible and she could work around them. Got approved eventually but it took some back and forth with adjudication.

I'm currently dealing with this exact situation as a part-time student working retail! From what I've learned through my own research and filing process, the key factors NYS Department of Labor considers are: 1) You must have earned sufficient wages during your base period (usually first 4 of last 5 completed quarters), 2) You must be physically able to work, 3) You must be available for work during hours when jobs in your field are typically available, and 4) You must be actively seeking work. The student status itself isn't disqualifying, but your class schedule can't severely limit your availability. I'd recommend calling during off-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon) to speak with someone directly about your specific situation, since every case is different based on your work history and school schedule.

Don't worry Andre, this happens to more people than you'd think! I missed certification once when my phone died during a camping trip and I completely forgot until Monday morning. The NY system actually handles this pretty well - when you log in this Sunday, you should see an option to certify for previous weeks right after you complete your current week's certification. Just answer the questions normally for both weeks. You'll get both payments but the missed week will take an extra day or two to process. I got mine about 4 days later instead of the usual 2-3. For what it's worth, I also set up multiple phone reminders now - Saturday evening, Sunday morning, and Sunday afternoon just to be safe. The stress of thinking you lost a week's benefits is not worth it! You should be totally fine to get caught up this weekend.

Hey Andre! I totally get the panic - I did the exact same thing a few months ago when I had a family crisis and completely spaced on certification. The good news is NY unemployment is actually pretty forgiving for one-off missed weeks. When you log in this Sunday, there should be a clear option to certify for missed weeks - it usually shows up right after you complete your regular certification or sometimes as a separate button on the main page. You'll still get paid for that missed week, just expect it to take 4-5 days instead of the usual 2-3. I'd also recommend setting up multiple phone reminders now - I do Saturday night, Sunday morning, and even a backup Sunday evening alarm. The stress of thinking you lost benefits is awful and totally avoidable! You should be completely fine to get caught up this weekend. And definitely call ConEd about payment arrangements if you need to buy some time - most utilities have programs for people on unemployment.

ugh the whole work search thing is such a hassle, like we're not already stressed enough about finding jobs. At least now I know what counts, been doing mostly online apps but will try some other activities too

One thing that really helped me was keeping a simple spreadsheet with all my work search activities. I include columns for date, company name, position title, method of contact (online application, phone call, etc.), and any follow-up actions. NYS Department of Labor may ask for this documentation later, so having it organized from the start saves a lot of stress. Also, don't forget that informational interviews and reaching out to your professional network can count as valid work search activities too - they're not just looking for formal job applications.