The NYS Department of Labor system is such a nightmare. I swear they make it as difficult as possible on purpose. Good luck OP, you're gonna need it dealing with their bureaucracy.

I went through something similar about 6 months ago when I had to quit due to a toxic manager. The key thing is to file your claim right away - don't wait any longer! When you file online, there's a section where you can explain why you left your job. Be detailed about the hostile work environment and mention that you have documentation. NYS DOL will schedule a phone interview to go over your case, and that's when you'll present your evidence (those text messages and HR complaint). Even if it takes a few weeks to get a decision, you'll still get backdated benefits to when you first filed if they approve you. The worst thing you can do is wait longer - every day you delay is a day you could potentially lose benefits.

I'm new to this community but wanted to share my recent experience since it might help. I was terminated from my part-time retail position at Target after 7 months for what they called "attendance issues" - I was late about 6 times due to my other job at a medical office running over with patient appointments. I was really worried about applying for unemployment because I thought being fired would automatically disqualify me, but after reading through this thread I decided to apply anyway. I'm so glad I did! I was approved on my first try without any issues. The key things that seemed to help my case: 1) I was completely honest about the reasons for my tardiness in my application, 2) I emphasized that I was working two jobs to support myself, and 3) I mentioned that my tardiness was due to patient care responsibilities at my other job running over (which shows I was being responsible, not careless). My weekly benefit amount isn't huge since I was only working part-time, but it's definitely helping while I look for a new position. To everyone in similar situations - don't let fear stop you from applying. The worst they can say is no, but you might be surprised by the outcome. The NYS Department of Labor seems to understand that many people work multiple jobs and that legitimate scheduling conflicts can happen.

This thread has been incredibly eye-opening! I'm currently dealing with a similar situation - just got terminated from my part-time job at a local grocery store after 9 months. They cited "performance issues" but honestly I think it was because I couldn't always stay late when they were short-staffed due to my evening classes at the community college. I was working about 20 hours a week at $15/hour while pursuing my associate's degree. Reading everyone's experiences here has completely changed my perspective on applying for unemployment benefits. I had no idea that part-time workers could qualify or that juggling work and school/multiple jobs could actually work in your favor rather than against you. The advice about documenting everything, being honest in the application, and not letting fear of denial stop you from trying really resonates with me. I'm definitely going to gather all my employment records and apply online at labor.ny.gov this week. It's amazing how supportive this community is - thank you all for sharing your stories and making this intimidating process feel much more manageable!

The NYS Department of Labor job search requirement is such a hassle! I understand why they need it but having to track everything when you're already stressed about being unemployed is frustrating. At least they don't make you submit it every week like some states do.

I've been using a simple Google Doc to track my job search activities and it works great! I set up columns for date, company name, position, contact method, and any follow-up actions needed. Since it's in the cloud I can access it from anywhere and it's easy to search if I need to find something specific. The key is being consistent about logging everything right after you do it - don't wait until the end of the week or you'll forget details.

Have you looked into summer reading programs at your local libraries? Most library systems hire temporary staff during summer months and they absolutely love hiring paras because you already have experience working with kids and helping with educational activities. The hours are usually pretty flexible too. Also, check with your local parks and recreation department - they often have last-minute openings for summer day camps when regular staff call out or take vacation. I know it's frustrating being stuck in this position but keep applying everywhere you can think of. Your para experience is actually a huge asset that many employers value, even for temporary summer work!

Just wanted to chime in as another para who's been through this summer struggle! One thing that saved me last year was signing up with temp agencies that specifically work with schools - companies like Kelly Educational Staffing or ESS (Educational Support Services). They often have summer placements for things like curriculum prep, classroom setup for fall, or helping with summer school programs. Also, don't overlook daycare centers - they're usually short-staffed in summer when their regular employees take vacations, and they love hiring people with classroom experience. The pay might not be amazing but it's something to keep you afloat until September. Another quick tip - check with your local Boys & Girls Club, they always need extra hands during busy summer months! Hang in there, you've got this! 💪

Just wanted to add some practical advice - when you file your weekly claims, keep detailed records of your hours and earnings from both jobs. I use a simple spreadsheet to track everything week by week. Also, if your delivery job pays through apps like DoorDash or Uber, make sure you're tracking those 1099 earnings carefully since they don't withhold taxes. The NYS Department of Labor will want accurate gross earnings reported, and having good records will save you headaches if they ever audit your claim.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago! Had a part-time office job that cut my hours from 30 to 10 per week, plus I was working weekends at a catering company. The NYS Department of Labor was actually pretty helpful once I got through to them. The key thing is that you're eligible for partial unemployment benefits because you had a "qualifying reduction in hours" - doesn't matter that you still have the other job. Just make sure when you file that you use the retail job (the one that cut your hours) as your primary employer for the claim. You'll still need to report all income from both jobs each week, but as long as your total weekly earnings are below your weekly benefit amount plus the $50 disregard, you'll get some benefits. With your current $180/week total, you should definitely qualify for something. Good luck!