Just want to add - make sure to keep filing weekly claims on time even if there are initial delays with the claim review. Sometimes they need extra time to verify work authorization but as long as you maintain eligibility you'll get backpay for those weeks.

I went through this exact situation with my H4 EAD last year when I lost my job. The application process was straightforward - just filed online like anyone else and uploaded my EAD card as proof of work authorization. Got approved within a few weeks. One tip: if you're worried about immigration implications, unemployment benefits are considered earned benefits since your employer was paying into the system, so it shouldn't affect your status. The hardest part was actually getting through to speak with someone when I had questions, but the online system worked fine for filing.

File the claim anyway and be honest about your work arrangement. Include details about how much control they had over your work methods, schedule, and tools. NYS Department of Labor will investigate and make the determination. Even if you're denied initially, you can appeal with additional documentation about the employment relationship.

Just wanted to add that if you do end up filing a claim, make sure to document everything about your work arrangement - contracts, emails showing they directed your work methods, any training materials they provided, records of exclusive work periods, etc. The more evidence you have of employee-like treatment, the stronger your case will be if they investigate the misclassification. I've seen cases go both ways depending on how well documented the working relationship was. Good luck with your claim!

I'm actually going through this same situation right now! I'm a DACA recipient who got laid off from my retail job last month. Reading all these responses has been so helpful - I was really nervous about applying because I wasn't sure if it would affect my status somehow. It's reassuring to see so many people confirm that DACA recipients are eligible and that the process is straightforward. I'm planning to file my claim online through my.ny.gov this weekend. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences, it really makes a difference to hear from others who've been through this!

I'm a DACA recipient who just started the unemployment application process after reading through all these responses, and I wanted to share what I've learned so far. The my.ny.gov portal is really user-friendly - they ask for basic info like your SSN, previous employer details, and reason for separation. What surprised me is that there's literally no section asking about immigration status at all. The system treats you exactly like any other worker who paid unemployment taxes. I'm still waiting for my determination, but the application itself was much less intimidating than I expected. For anyone else hesitating like I was - don't let fear keep you from accessing benefits you've rightfully earned through your work contributions!

Wait I'm confused - can you get both workers comp AND unemployment at the same time? Or is it one or the other? I always thought if you got hurt at work you couldn't file for unemployment benefits.

Hey Malik, sorry to hear about your accident. Just wanted to add that when you do file for workers comp, make sure to document everything - photos of the accident site if possible, witness statements, medical records, etc. Also, don't let your employer pressure you into not filing. In NY, contractors are often covered under workers comp even if they're not direct employees, especially in construction. The sooner you file the better - there are deadlines for reporting workplace injuries. Hope you heal up quickly!

The whole system is so confusing! I was eligible but didn't realize I had to do the job search activities every week. Make sure you keep track of your job contacts because they can ask for your log anytime.

@Zoe Papadakis - definitely file your claim as soon as possible! There's usually a waiting week before benefits start, so the sooner you apply the better. You can file online at labor.ny.gov (not my.ny.gov). You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment info for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, and dates worked. Since you were laid off due to business reasons, you should qualify. Just make sure to file your weekly certifications on time once your claim is processed - you can usually do this online or by phone every week.