ugh the whole system is so unfair. here we are paying taxes on our unemployment benefits but then can't use that same income to qualify for basic things like housing. makes no sense!

I went through something similar last year. One thing that really helped was getting a letter from NYS Department of Labor showing my remaining benefit balance and duration. Some lenders want to see that you have at least 12 months of benefits left. Also, if you have any part-time work or side income, document that too - it shows additional stability. The market is tough but don't give up! Your credit score and down payment savings put you in a decent position.

ugh why is everything so broken?? 🤬 we're just trying to survive here and they make it impossible. the whole system needs an overhaul

I had this exact same problem! Here's what finally worked for me: 1. Try logging in during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) 2. Use the "forgot password" option to reset your login credentials - sometimes the system gets confused about authentication 3. If you're getting error messages, screenshot them and save the error codes - it'll help when you do get through to someone 4. Check if there are any outstanding documents or forms they need from you that might be blocking your weekly certification The pending status is super frustrating, but don't give up on the weekly certifications even if the system is glitchy. You'll need those to get backpay once everything gets sorted out. Hang in there! 💪

just file and see what happens, worst they can do is say no

I went through something very similar about 6 months ago. My manager was creating a hostile work environment and eventually told me I could resign or be terminated for "performance issues" that were clearly fabricated. I documented everything - the conversations, dates, witnesses, even took photos of the impossible tasks I was being assigned. When I filed for unemployment, NYS Department of Labor did put my claim into adjudication, but I was ultimately approved. The key things that helped my case were: 1) I had written evidence of the ultimatum, 2) I could show a pattern of discriminatory treatment, and 3) I demonstrated that I had no reasonable alternative but to quit. The process took about 8 weeks, but I did receive back pay for the entire period. Don't let anyone tell you it's hopeless - constructive discharge is a real thing and NYS Department of Labor does recognize it when properly documented.

Make sure you're really clear about the timeline of events. I appealed mine and won because I could prove the employer changed their story between what they told NYS Department of Labor initially vs what they said later. Document everything and be very detailed about what actually happened on the day you were terminated.

just went thru this myself and won my appeal!! the key thing is dont let them intimidate you with legal language and stuff. stick to the facts of what really happened and explain why their decision was wrong. also get ready for a hearing because most appeals end up there anyway

I went through something similar with my anxiety and panic disorder. One thing that really helped my case was getting a detailed letter from my psychiatrist that specifically mentioned how my work environment was exacerbating my condition and that continuing to work there would be harmful to my recovery. NYS Department of Labor seems to take it more seriously when the medical professional explicitly connects your mental health condition to your inability to continue in that specific job. Also, if you do decide to quit, make sure you phrase it as "constructive dismissal" if your employer was unwilling to accommodate your disability - this can sometimes be treated more like a termination than a voluntary quit. The process is stressful but don't let that discourage you from applying if you truly need the support.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now and wanted to share what I've learned from talking to a disability advocate. The key thing is that NYS Department of Labor looks at whether your resignation was "involuntary" due to circumstances beyond your control. For mental health conditions like anxiety, you need to show three main things: 1) Medical documentation that your condition prevents you from performing your job duties, 2) Evidence that you attempted to work with your employer on accommodations (even if they refused), and 3) Proof that continuing to work would cause significant harm to your health. I'm still in the process myself, but having everything documented from the start has made me feel more confident about my case. Also, don't be afraid to mention if your workplace contributed to or worsened your anxiety - that can actually strengthen your claim for good cause.