I had a similar problem and found out it was because I had reported some self-employment income during my benefit year. Had to verify all that before they'd let me file a new claim. Check if that applies to you.

I went through this exact same frustration last year! The system is super strict about the BYE date - you literally cannot file even one day early, no matter how much you've earned. Here's what worked for me: 1. Mark your calendar for your exact BYE date in November and try filing right at midnight or first thing in the morning 2. Have all your employment records ready - they'll want to verify your part-time work history 3. If the online system still blocks you (which happens sometimes), don't waste weeks calling. I used Claimyr to get through to an agent who filed my claim manually over the phone The 10x rule just means you're eligible, but the timing restriction is absolute. Also double-check that you don't have any pending issues on your account that might be blocking you - sometimes there are hidden flags that only agents can see. Don't stress too much, you'll get it sorted once your BYE date hits. The system is just designed terribly but you'll get your benefits flowing again!

This just happened to my cousin too! She was totally blindsided when her effective days hit zero. What really helped her was calling first thing in the morning (like 8:01 AM) - she got through after about an hour of waiting instead of the usual all-day busy signals. The agent told her that since she had worked a retail job for about 4 months during her benefit year, she qualified for a new claim but the weekly amount would be based on those recent earnings, not her original job. Also, make sure you keep certifying weekly even while your new claim is being processed - sometimes there can be a gap but they can backdate payments if you stay current with your certifications. The whole system really needs better communication about what happens when benefits end!

I just went through this exact situation a few months ago! When your effective days hit zero, it means you've exhausted your regular UI benefits - typically after 26 weeks. The good news is that if you worked during your benefit year (like your part-time job), you might qualify for a new claim. A few tips from my experience: 1) Apply for the new claim online as soon as possible - don't wait for any official notification, 2) Your new weekly benefit amount will be calculated based on your recent earnings, so it might be lower than before, 3) There's usually a processing gap where you won't receive payments while they review your new application, but keep certifying weekly anyway. The NY minimum weekly benefit is $104, and the maximum is $504 (as of 2025). With $4,000 earned in one quarter, you should qualify, though the exact amount depends on their calculation formula. I'd also recommend trying to call them early morning (8 AM sharp) - that's when I finally got through to confirm my eligibility. The whole process took about 10 days for me. Hang in there!

Don't forget you'll need to file weekly claims once your initial application is processed! That's a whole separate thing you have to do every week to actually get paid. And start keeping a job search log immediately because NYS Department of Labor requires you to be actively looking for work.

I just went through this process last month and wanted to add a few tips that really helped me. First, have your W-2s and final pay stubs ready - they'll ask for specific wage information and it's way easier if you have the documents in front of you. Second, when you get to the "reason for separation" section, there's usually a dropdown menu with options like "lack of work," "layoff," "discharged," etc. Since your position was eliminated due to budget cuts, "lack of work" is typically the right choice. Also, don't stress too much about being perfect - you can always call to correct minor mistakes, and they'll contact you if they need clarification on anything. The key is just being honest and thorough. Good luck with your claim!

One thing to watch out for - if you quit your job you generally won't qualify unless it was for 'good cause' like unsafe working conditions or harassment. Since you were laid off that shouldn't be an issue, but just mentioning it because some people don't realize quitting usually disqualifies you from benefits.

Good point about the layoff vs quitting distinction! @Kingston Bellamy since you mentioned you were laid off due to slow business, that definitely counts as being unemployed through no fault of your own, which is one of the key requirements. Just make sure when you file your claim that you accurately describe the reason for separation - "lack of work" or "reduction in force" are the typical codes they use for layoffs. Also, regarding your concern about caring for your mom - as long as you can demonstrate that you're available to work during normal business hours and can arrange care when needed, that shouldn't disqualify you. The key is showing you're genuinely seeking and available for employment.

same boat here! was making about 55k and getting like 400 something a week. its tough but better than nothing i guess. make sure you file right away though because theres a waiting period

Just want to add some clarity on the base period calculation since there seems to be some confusion. Your base period is typically the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you file in Q1 2025, your base period would be Q4 2023 through Q3 2024. The weekly benefit amount is calculated by taking your highest quarter earnings in that base period, dividing by 26, then that amount is roughly your weekly benefit (capped at $504). Also, there IS a one-week waiting period in NY, so your first payable week is actually your second week of unemployment. Make sure you continue certifying even during that waiting week or you could lose benefits later.