The whole tax system is rigged against working people. They tax unemployment benefits but give billionaires tax breaks. Makes no sense that people who lost their jobs have to pay taxes on the money that barely kept them afloat.

Just to add some practical advice - when you file your taxes, make sure you double-check that the amount on your 1099-G matches what you actually received. I had a discrepancy last year where the form showed more than I got, and it turned out there was an error in their system. Also, if you're worried about owing money, you might want to consider making estimated tax payments next time if you receive unemployment again. The IRS has a tool on their website to help calculate how much to withhold or pay quarterly.

hang in there, these things usually work out eventually. the wait is awful but try not to panic

I went through something similar last year - my claim was pending for 8 weeks! It turned out they needed additional documentation from my previous employer about my separation. The key is to keep calling early in the morning (like 8 AM sharp) when they open - that's when I finally got through. Also, if you haven't already, try contacting your local assemblyperson's office. They often have contacts at the Department of Labor who can help expedite these cases. Don't give up - the backpay will come once it's resolved, and like others said, make sure you keep certifying weekly!

Good luck with filing tonight! One tip - make sure you have all your employment info ready before you start (employer names, addresses, dates worked, reason for separation). The application will time out if you take too long gathering documents. Also, once you file that initial claim, don't wait to start your weekly certifications - you can file your first weekly claim the Sunday after you submit your initial application, even if you haven't gotten your determination letter yet. The sooner you start that weekly routine, the sooner payments can begin processing.

One thing I wish someone had told me when I first filed - don't panic if your claim status shows "pending" for a while after you submit. That's totally normal while they process your application. Also, make sure to check your messages in the online portal regularly because NYS Department of Labor will send important updates there, not just to your email. And if you do end up needing to call them, try calling right when they open at 8am - that's when you have the best chance of getting through. The phone lines get completely jammed by mid-morning.

This is all making me nervous... what happens if I make a mistake on my weekly claim? Like if I accidentally put the wrong date or something? Will they deny my whole claim??

Just wanted to add that you should file your initial claim as soon as possible after losing your job - there's no waiting period to file, and you want to get the process started right away. Also, make sure you have all your employment information ready (dates of employment, employer addresses, reason for separation) because you'll need that for your application. The online system at labor.ny.gov is usually the fastest way to file. One more tip - set up direct deposit when you file because paper checks can add extra delays to getting your benefits.

The whole unemployment system is so confusing with all these random fields they ask for. Half the time NYS Department of Labor already has the information anyway but they still make you jump through hoops. Just fill out what you can and submit it - they'll contact you if they need anything else.

I had the exact same issue when I filed a few months ago! I spent way too much time searching through old documents looking for this number. Turns out you can just skip it entirely. NYS Department of Labor will match your employer based on the business name and your Social Security number from their records. Don't stress about it - just make sure you have the correct business name and address and you'll be fine.