Just file online at my.ny.gov, it's way easier than calling. You'll need your social security number, employment history for the last 18 months, and your employer's info. The whole process takes maybe 30 minutes if you have everything ready.

Just wanted to add that when you do file, make sure you're completely honest about why you waited to file. The NYS Department of Labor will ask during your initial claim interview. Don't try to backdate or anything - just explain that you were job searching and didn't realize you could file while looking. They're usually understanding about this situation since it's pretty common. Also, start keeping detailed records of your job search activities now because you'll need to report them when you file your weekly claims.

I feel your pain! The system is designed to make you give up. After trying everything, what worked for me was using claimyr.com to get through to an agent. It's basically a service that does the calling/waiting for you. They call when they get a human on the line. Talking to a real person fixed my issues that had been pending for over a month.

I'm dealing with the exact same nightmare right now - been trying for 2 weeks straight and it's driving me insane! I see a lot of people mentioning claimyr.com in the comments. Has anyone here actually used it recently? I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point but want to make sure it's legit before I spend money on it. The regular calling methods clearly aren't working for any of us. Really hoping someone can confirm this actually works because I'm running out of options and money fast 😰

The whole system is BROKEN for gig workers and freelancers! We're supposed to be independent but then get zero support when the economy tanks. Every other developed country has figured this out but not us. Makes me want to just get a regular job for the security.

Have you considered looking into New York State's Freelance Isn't Free Act? While it doesn't help with unemployment benefits, it might give you some legal recourse if any clients haven't paid you properly. Also, you might want to check if you qualify for SNAP benefits or other assistance programs while you're looking for new work. The Empire State Development agency sometimes has resources for freelancers and small business owners too. It's not unemployment, but every bit helps when income is tight.

Just to clarify the process - when you file your new claim, make sure you report that your hours were reduced rather than saying you quit or were fired. Reduction in hours is good cause for filing and shouldn't trigger any adjudication issues. You'll need to provide your recent pay stubs to verify your earnings for the new base period calculation.

I went through this exact situation last year - had my benefits exhaust, worked part-time for about 6 months, then had my hours cut. Filed a new claim immediately and it went through without any issues. The key is that your new base period will be different from your previous claim, so as long as you worked enough in those qualifying quarters, you're good to go. Don't overthink it - if your hours were reduced significantly, you have every right to file for unemployment benefits again. Just make sure to have all your recent pay stubs ready when you apply online.

Whatever you do don't lie about it! My cousin tried to hide that he was in school and when they found out during an audit he had to pay back thousands in overpayment. NYS Department of Labor takes fraud seriously so just be upfront about everything

I'm actually dealing with something similar right now. From what I've learned, NYS Department of Labor has a specific approval process for training programs while on unemployment called the 599 Training Program. If your community college program is job-related and leads to better employment prospects, you might be able to get it approved. This would protect you from the usual "available for work" requirements during class hours. I'd suggest looking into this option before you start classes - it could give you more security than just hoping your part-time schedule works out. You can find more info on their website under training opportunities for unemployment recipients.