Thanks for asking this question! I always wondered the same thing. Makes sense that it's employer-funded since they're the ones doing the hiring and firing decisions.

This is really helpful to understand! I had no idea employers were paying quarterly taxes for this. It makes me wonder - does this mean that companies with better employee retention actually save money on these taxes? Like if a tech company rarely has layoffs, do they pay less than a seasonal business that has to let people go every winter?

I'm in a similar situation - got approved about a week ago and still waiting for my card. Reading these responses is really helpful! I didn't know about checking the payment history on my.ny.gov, so I'll definitely do that. The timing stress is real when you're counting on these benefits. Has anyone had issues with the card not arriving and had to request a replacement?

I just went through this same process a few weeks ago. My timeline was: approved on a Tuesday, first payment issued the following Monday, and the KeyBank card arrived exactly 8 business days after the payment was issued. The waiting is definitely nerve-wracking when you need the money, but it sounds like you're right on track with the normal timeline. Once you get the card, make sure to set up the KeyBank app - it makes checking your balance and finding ATMs much easier than calling the phone number on the back of the card.

Also watch out for partial unemployment if you're only getting reduced hours instead of full layoffs. A lot of construction workers don't realize they can file for partial benefits when work slows down but doesn't stop completely.

Don't forget about unemployment due to workplace injuries too. If you get hurt on the job and can't work while recovering, you might be eligible for temporary disability benefits through workers' comp, but there can also be situations where unemployment benefits apply if you're able to work but your injury prevents you from doing your specific construction job. I learned this the hard way after a back injury last year. The NYS Department of Labor can help you figure out which benefits you qualify for, but it's worth knowing that construction workers have some unique situations that office workers don't typically face.

Just remember that your first payment might include back pay if there was any delay in processing your initial claim. So don't be surprised if the amount is higher than expected - that's actually a good thing!

I'm going through the same situation right now! My claim was approved on Wednesday and I'm still waiting for the deposit. From what I've read on the NYS DOL website, they say to allow 2-3 business days for direct deposit after your weekly certification shows as "paid." It's nerve-wracking when you're counting on that money, but it sounds like the system is just slow. Hang in there Diego, hopefully we both see our payments soon!

been getting UI for 8 months now and its always different timing. sometimes tuesday sometimes friday. just depends on their system i think. as long as you certified properly youll get it eventually

I've been on unemployment for about 6 months now and can share what I've learned about the timing. NYS DOL usually processes payments 1-3 business days after you certify, but there are a few factors that affect when it actually hits your account: 1) Your bank's processing speed (some credit unions are faster than big banks), 2) Whether you have direct deposit vs. debit card, and 3) Any system maintenance they might be doing. I keep a little buffer in my budget now since I've learned it's not always predictable. If you're really concerned about this week's payment, you can call the automated system at 1-888-581-5812 to check if it was released - that usually tells you if the delay is on their end or your bank's end.