Just to add some helpful information: You can check what you've already had withheld by logging into your NY.gov account, going to Unemployment Services, and selecting 'Payment History.' This will show each payment with tax withholding amounts. If you're concerned about whether you've withheld enough, speaking with a tax professional now rather than waiting until tax season might be worthwhile.

Just wanted to chime in as someone who went through this exact confusion last year! I also got mixed up thinking unemployment wasn't taxable anymore. What really helped me was setting up automatic transfers - every time I get my unemployment payment, I immediately move 15% to a separate "tax savings" account (10% for federal, 5% for state). That way I don't even see that money and won't be tempted to spend it. When tax time comes around, I'll have more than enough set aside and might even get a small refund. It's been a lifesaver for budgeting!

Based on what everyone's shared, it sounds like you should be in good shape since you worked full-time in early 2024. Just to add some clarity - the key thing to remember is that NYS Department of Labor needs to see wages in at least 2 different quarters within your base period, and those wages need to total at least $2,600. Since you mentioned working part-time through 2023 and then full-time starting early 2024, you likely have wages spread across multiple quarters which should help you meet both requirements. The system will automatically check both base periods for you, so you don't need to request the alternate base period - it happens behind the scenes if needed.

Just wanted to chime in as someone who went through this process recently. One thing that helped me was calling the automated system at 1-888-209-8124 during off-peak hours (like early morning or late evening) to check my benefit year and base period dates. It's way faster than trying to get through to a live agent, and it gives you the exact quarters they're using for your claim. You can also press different options to hear your total wages for each quarter, which helps you verify if you meet the requirements without having to log into the website.

I agree that NYS should make this clearer! I think a lot of people miss out on benefits they're entitled to because the distinction between W2 contractors and 1099 contractors isn't well explained. For anyone reading this thread, the general rule is: if you got a W2 and had payroll taxes taken out, you were likely an employee for unemployment purposes regardless of whether it was called "contract work." The staffing agency was probably paying unemployment insurance on your behalf. Definitely worth filing a claim!

This is really helpful information! I'm currently a W2 contractor through a staffing agency and wasn't sure about my eligibility either. It's good to know that having taxes withheld and getting a W2 makes you eligible. I've been saving up just in case my contract ends, but it's reassuring to know unemployment benefits are an option. Thanks for asking this question - I'm sure lots of people are in similar situations and don't know their rights!

Just want to add that if your base period doesn't qualify you, NYS Department of Labor will automatically check your alternate base period which uses the last four completed quarters instead. Sometimes that works better for people who had recent job changes.

This is really helpful information! I'm in a similar boat where I worked inconsistently throughout 2024. One thing I learned when I called NYS Department of Labor is that they also have a minimum weekly benefit amount requirement - you need to have earned at least 1.5 times your weekly benefit rate in your high quarter. So it's not just about hitting the $2,700 total, but also about having enough earnings concentrated in your best quarter. Might be worth calculating that out too before you file to see where you stand.

Anyone else notice that the system always seems to "crash" right when you finally get through? I swear they do it on purpose 🤬

I'm dealing with the exact same thing right now - going on 6 weeks pending with zero explanation. The most frustrating part is how the system just leaves you completely in the dark. I've been following some of the advice here and wanted to add that I found success using the "Contact Us" form on the NYDOL website multiple times. I submitted the same inquiry every few days with slightly different wording, and eventually got a response that my case was escalated for review. Still waiting, but at least I know someone is supposedly looking at it now. Also, if you have any part-time work or gig income you reported, double-check those dates and amounts - apparently even tiny discrepancies can flag your account for manual review. This whole system is a nightmare but don't give up!