I had trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor on the phone to ask about this exact same thing. The wait times are insane and I kept getting disconnected. Finally found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have this video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. The agent was able to explain my backdating options and help me file properly. Might be worth checking out if you're having trouble reaching anyone.

File online right now!! Don't wait any longer. Even if they don't approve backdating you'll at least start getting benefits from this week forward. The online system is usually faster than calling anyway.

@PaulineW I'm in a similar situation - just hit week 22 myself and starting to panic about what comes next. Have you looked into any job training programs while you're still receiving benefits? Sometimes the state has workforce development programs that might provide additional support or even extend your eligibility if you're enrolled in approved training. Also, definitely keep detailed records of all your job search activities - applications, interviews, networking events, etc. If you do end up needing to apply for other assistance programs later, having that documentation can be really helpful. Hang in there, the job market is still tough but don't give up!

@PaulineW I'm about 2 weeks behind you at week 18 and this thread has been so helpful - thank you for starting this conversation! One thing I wanted to add is that I recently discovered New York has a program called the Dislocated Worker Program through WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) that can provide extended support and even funding for retraining if you meet certain criteria. You typically qualify if you were laid off from a job you held for a substantial period or if you're unlikely to return to your previous occupation. The funding can cover tuition, books, and even some living expenses while you're in an approved training program. I'm in the process of applying now and wanted to share since several people mentioned training programs. Also, I've been using the NY.gov job search portal and found their career counseling chat feature surprisingly helpful for getting guidance on next steps. The counselors can sometimes point you toward programs or resources that aren't widely advertised. Hang in there - reading everyone's suggestions here has given me so much hope that there are more options than I originally thought!

I won my appeal in september, it took exactly 4 weeks and 3 days to get the decision in the mail. Be prepared to wait but also dont lose hope! From what i've seen, judges tend to side with the workers more often than employers in these cases. The system is defiantly designed to be frustrating but hang in there

Based on everyone's experiences here, it sounds like 3-6 weeks is pretty typical, though some people have waited much longer. I just went through this process myself last month and got my decision after exactly 28 days. The waiting is absolutely the worst part - I was checking my mailbox twice a day! A few things that helped me stay sane during the wait: I set up a simple calendar to track the days, kept all my documentation organized in case I needed to appeal further, and tried to stay busy with job applications. Also definitely keep checking your online account regularly - sometimes the status updates there before the mail arrives. Your case sounds solid with the performance reviews and evidence of following guidelines. Try not to stress too much about the outcome (easier said than done, I know). The fact that your hearing went well is a good sign. Hang in there!

Just want to say hang in there. I was in your position 6 months ago and it was terrifying. Ended up finding a job literally the week my benefits ended. The market is tough but not impossible.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - my benefits run out in March and I'm terrified. Been looking for work since December with no luck. The financial services sector is absolutely brutal right now. I've been considering taking any temporary work I can find just to have some income coming in while I keep searching. Has anyone had success with temp agencies or contract work in finance? Even if it's not ideal, it might help bridge the gap until something permanent opens up. Also wondering if anyone knows about emergency rental assistance programs that don't require you to be completely broke first - most seem to want you to be already behind on rent before they'll help.

speaking of holidays does anyone know if we get paid for the days that are holidays or do they count against us?

Just went through the same panic earlier this week! I've been on NY unemployment for about 8 months now and this Presidents Day thing catches me off guard every time. The system message change is actually really helpful once you know what it means - saves you from wondering why your payment didn't process on the usual day. For future reference, the major holidays that typically affect payment schedules are New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Worth keeping a mental note of these so you don't stress when the message changes!