Remember to keep filing your weekly claims even while the appeal is pending! A lot of people forget this step and it can mess up your benefit timeline.

Don't let that one bad experience scare you too much - every judge is different. I had my hearing last summer for a similar situation (hostile work environment) and the judge was actually very patient and thorough. Make sure you have a quiet space for the call if it's by phone, and test your phone connection beforehand. Also, when you present your evidence about the safety issues, be specific about dates and what actions you took to address them with management before quitting. The fact that you have text messages and emails is really good - that's exactly the kind of documentation that can make or break these cases. You've got this!

This is such valuable information for anyone dealing with NYSDOL system issues! I've been following this thread because I'm always worried something like this could happen to my claim. It's reassuring to know there are actual solutions and that the Tier 2 specialists can fix these backend problems. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences - this kind of community knowledge is so much more helpful than trying to navigate the official website or automated phone system alone.

This is exactly why I love this community - real people sharing real solutions that actually work! I've been on unemployment for a few months now and I'm always paranoid about system glitches like this. The fact that you got it resolved so quickly with the right approach gives me hope that if something similar happens to me, there's a path forward. I'm definitely saving the info about asking specifically for Tier 2 specialists and not filing a new claim if your existing one disappears. Thanks for taking the time to update us with the resolution - it really helps other people who might face this same issue!

Just to add - make sure you understand the job search requirements too. You need to make at least 3 job contacts per week and keep a log. NYS Department of Labor can ask for proof anytime. Don't let that part surprise you when you start receiving benefits.

I went through this same situation last year when I got laid off from my marketing job. The reality check is tough - you're looking at around $504 max per week in NY, which is roughly 42% of what you were making at $1,200/week. I had to quickly adjust my budget and cut non-essential expenses. One tip: start your application ASAP since there's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits begin, and processing can take 2-3 weeks. Also consider picking up some freelance or gig work if possible - you can earn up to a certain amount without it affecting your benefits. The job search requirement is real too, so start networking and applying right away. Hang in there!

Just make sure you document everything about the safety issues you mentioned. If your employer tries to contest your claim, having evidence that you were fired for legitimate concerns rather than actual performance problems could really help your case. I wish I had kept better records when I went through something similar.

Definitely file your claim ASAP! You can absolutely collect unemployment if you were fired for performance issues - that's not considered misconduct under NYS law. The fact that you raised safety concerns actually works in your favor if your employer contests it. I'd recommend keeping any documentation about those safety issues you mentioned, just in case. When you file online at labor.ny.gov, just be honest about being terminated for performance reasons. Don't stress too much - the system is designed to help workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own, and performance issues usually fall into that category. Good luck!

Have you tried calling them? I know its a pain, but sometimes you gotta be persistent to get answers.

I'm dealing with a similar overpayment situation right now too! From what I've read in the DOL handbook, they're supposed to send you a notice explaining the recoupment schedule and when benefits should resume. Have you gotten anything like that in writing? Also, I noticed on my online account there's a section that shows the overpayment balance - might be worth checking if yours updates as they deduct. This whole process is so stressful when you're already struggling financially 😔