File immediately, don't wait! I learned this the hard way when I was terminated a few months ago. The NYS DOL system actually encourages you to file as soon as possible after job separation - there's even a notice on their website saying delays in filing can result in loss of benefits. Your employer contesting is actually pretty common and doesn't mean you won't get approved. During my adjudication process, they asked for my side of the story and I was able to provide documentation that supported my case. The key is getting your claim established with the earliest possible effective date. You can always supplement with additional documentation later through your online account if the adjudicator requests it.

Just want to echo what everyone else is saying - file TODAY! I made the mistake of waiting 10 days after my termination because I thought I needed to "process" what happened first. Those 10 days were basically wasted benefit time that I can never get back. The NYS system is actually pretty straightforward once you start - you'll need your SSN, employment history for the past 18 months, and basic info about why you were terminated. Don't overthink the documentation part - the initial application is just to get you in the system. If they need more details during adjudication, they'll ask for it. Your employer threatening to contest is totally normal and honestly just shows they're trying to discourage you from filing. File now, worry about their contest later!

I work in HR and deal with this stuff all the time. Your claim number is definitely in the initial filing confirmation - it's required by law that they provide it. If you truly can't find any documentation, NYS Department of Labor can verify your identity over the phone using your SSN, full name, and address to look up your claim. The key is actually getting through to speak with someone, which I know is the main challenge right now.

Have you tried checking your text messages? When I filed my claim, NYS Department of Labor sent me a confirmation text with my claim number right after I submitted the application. It might be buried in your message history if you haven't deleted it. Also, if you have a case worker assigned to your claim, sometimes their contact info includes your claim number in their email signature or voicemail messages.

I'm also interested in training benefits but wondering about the timeline. How long does the approval process usually take? I'm worried about my regular UI benefits running out before I can get into an approved program. Also, does anyone know if there are specific training programs that are easier to get approved for than others? I'm coming from retail too and really need to pivot into something with better job prospects.

Just wanted to add that if you're considering training benefits, make sure to ask about stackable credentials too. Some programs let you earn multiple certifications in related fields, which can make you more competitive. For example, if you're doing medical coding, you might also be able to get certified in medical billing or healthcare administration. This doesn't necessarily extend your benefits longer, but it gives you more job options when you finish. Also, many community colleges have partnerships with the One-Stop centers, so you might be able to use your training benefits for associate degree programs if they're in high-demand fields. The counselors at the American Job Centers are really helpful in explaining all your options - definitely worth scheduling an appointment even if you're just exploring possibilities.

Just went through this myself. Pro tip: when you print your payment history from my.ny.gov, also print out your original determination letter that shows your weekly benefit amount. Having both documents together makes it look more official and complete.

Another option is to ask the landlord if they'll accept a screenshot or printout of your unemployment debit card transaction history. If you get your benefits loaded onto a KeyBank debit card, those transactions show up like direct deposits with dates and amounts. Some landlords find this easier to understand than the official DOL payment history since it looks more like regular bank statements they're used to seeing.

The NYS Department of Labor wage determination process is actually pretty straightforward once you understand it. They're calculating your weekly benefit amount based on your highest earning quarter in the base period. If you had any issues with unreported wages or worked for employers who went out of business, that can delay things. But in most cases it's just verification.

I went through wage determination about 6 months ago and it took exactly 2 weeks for me. What helped was that I kept all my pay stubs and had my employment dates ready when I first filed. The NYS Department of Labor will also look at any severance pay you received - that might affect your benefit start date but won't reduce your weekly amount. Just be patient, Omar, since you worked for the same company for 3 years your wage history should be pretty straightforward to verify.