I've been following this thread as someone who just started my unemployment claim process and this has been incredibly helpful! The base period calculation thing really is confusing - I had no idea they weren't looking at my most recent earnings. I'm in a similar situation where I worked at a higher-paying job for only about 6 months before getting laid off, so I'm expecting my benefit amount will probably be lower than the maximum too. It's frustrating that the DOL website doesn't explain this clearly upfront, but at least now I understand why my benefit calculation might not be what I initially expected. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and actual numbers - it really helps newcomers like me understand how this whole system works!

Just went through something very similar! Got laid off from a $55k job after working there for 8 months and was confused why I was only getting $450/week instead of the max. After reading all these responses, I finally understand the base period calculation. It's so frustrating that they don't explain this clearly anywhere - I spent hours on their website trying to figure it out. The determination letter does help once you know what to look for, but they should really make this more transparent upfront. At least now I know I'm getting the right amount based on my earnings history. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and breaking down the math!

Final advice: When you do get through to someone, request that they place a "fraud alert" flag on your file in their system. This will prevent any future claims from being automatically processed under your SSN without additional verification steps. Also, for future reference, you can set up an account on the NYSDOL website even if you're not currently claiming benefits - this allows you to monitor if anyone tries to file using your information again.

I went through something similar last year and it was absolutely terrifying at first. The key thing that helped me was realizing this is actually pretty common with identity theft cases. Don't panic - you have rights and there are clear steps to resolve this. A few things that helped me specifically: - When you call, ask to speak to a "Benefit Payment Control" specialist - they handle overpayment disputes - Request a "wage crossmatch report" which shows what employers reported wages under your SSN during those weeks - If you have any bank statements from March-April 2025, gather them now to prove you weren't receiving UI deposits The identity theft angle is definitely your strongest defense here. The fact that you haven't been collecting benefits makes this pretty cut and dry once you get the right person to look at your case. Hang in there - I know it feels overwhelming but once you get through to someone who can actually help, these cases usually get resolved faster than you'd expect. The system is broken but the individual workers I dealt with were actually pretty helpful once I could reach them.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS A MESS! I waited 7 weeks for my claim to get approved and when I finally got through to someone they said there was a 'computer glitch' that held up my case. Meanwhile I'm behind on rent and can barely afford groceries. NYS Department of Labor needs to get their act together!

To answer your earlier question about adjudication - it can be triggered by several things: if you were fired vs laid off, if there are discrepancies in your work history, if you had multiple employers, or if your employer contests your claim. The good news is that most claims do get approved eventually, it just takes patience unfortunately.

oh wow i need to file soon too, my last day is next friday. good to know it might take a while. do you have to wait until after your last day to file or can you do it before?

I filed my claim about 3 weeks ago and just got my first payment last week, so it was right around that 2-4 week timeframe that Clay mentioned. One thing that helped speed up my process was making sure I had all my employment documentation ready - like pay stubs and your separation notice from your employer. Also definitely set up direct deposit if you haven't already, it's faster than waiting for a check in the mail. Hang in there, I know the waiting is stressful but it does come through eventually!

THE SYSTEM IS BROKEN!! I've been waiting 8 weeks and they keep saying my claim is under review. Meanwhile I can't pay my bills and they won't tell me what the holdup is. This is ridiculous.

I just went through this process a few months ago when my company downsized. The 2-3 week timeframe mentioned by Yara is pretty accurate for most cases. Since you were part of a mass layoff, that actually works in your favor - the Department of Labor processes these faster because they can verify multiple claims from the same employer at once. One thing that helped me was checking my claim status regularly on the my.ny.gov portal and making sure I certified for benefits every week even before approval. Also, keep all your paperwork handy in case they need additional documentation. Hang in there - the waiting is the hardest part but it will come through!