The whole system is honestly pretty confusing at first but you get used to it. Just remember that if your claim gets approved, your first payment usually comes about 2-3 weeks after filing if everything goes smoothly. But don't panic if it takes longer - mine took 5 weeks because of some verification issues.

Thanks everyone for all this helpful info! I'm definitely going to file today after reading all of this. One quick question - when you say they contact your employer to verify employment, do they actually call them or is it just through some automated system? I'm worried my old manager might say something negative since the layoffs were pretty sudden and there was some tension. Also, should I expect to get any paperwork in the mail or is everything done online these days?

Just wanted to add that even after approval you won't get paid immediately - there's usually a one week waiting period for your first payment. Budget accordingly!

I went through this process about 8 months ago after my company downsized. The good news is that since you were laid off (not fired for cause), your claim should process relatively smoothly. In my experience, I got my monetary determination letter in about 10 days, and my first payment came 3 weeks after filing. The key is to keep certifying weekly even while you're waiting - you can do this through the same portal where you filed your initial claim. Also, make sure to apply for jobs and keep records since they may ask for proof later. Hang in there, the process feels slow but it does work!

Just went through this process myself last month. Filed on a Tuesday, got approved the following Monday, and received my first payment that Thursday. The whole thing was about 10 days total. The trick is being super accurate with all your information and making sure your employer doesn't contest the claim.

@Yara Haddad I just went through this exact situation a few months ago! Here's what really helped me speed things up: 1) File online immediately - don't wait, the system processes faster than phone claims 2) Have your last 18 months of employment history ready with exact dates and employer contact info 3) Set up direct deposit right away in your account settings 4) File your weekly certification every Sunday religiously, even before you're approved. Also, regarding your rent situation - contact your landlord now and explain you're between jobs but have filed for unemployment. Many landlords are understanding if you communicate early. You might also look into local emergency rental assistance programs while you wait for benefits to kick in. The waiting is stressful but most people do get their first payment within 2-3 weeks if there are no complications. Hang in there!

hang in there - the first payment always feels like it takes forever but once you're in the system it's usually pretty reliable. just make sure you're doing everything they ask for job searches and weekly certs

I went through this same anxiety when I filed last year. The waiting period is definitely stressful, but 2-3 weeks is pretty standard for NYS. One thing that helped me was calling the automated phone line (1-888-209-8124) to check my claim status - sometimes it shows more detail than the website. Also, make sure you have your direct deposit info set up correctly in your account because that can add extra time if there are any issues with your banking information. The good news is that once it's approved, you'll get back pay for all the eligible weeks you've been waiting.

Just wanted to add - when you call that number (1-888-209-8124), make sure you call right at 8 AM when they open or try again around 2-3 PM like Sara mentioned. I've found that calling right at opening time gives you the best chance of getting through without a super long wait. Also, don't hang up if you get put on hold - I made that mistake the first few times and had to start over. The hold music is terrible but just stick with it! And definitely have all your paperwork ready because once you get an agent on the line, they'll want to go through everything pretty quickly.

One more tip that helped me - if you get through to an agent but they say they're having system issues or need to transfer you, ask them to keep your spot in line rather than hanging up and calling back. Sometimes they can put you on a brief hold while they fix whatever's going on, which is way better than starting over. Also, if you're calling about a layoff specifically, have your employer's federal tax ID number ready if you can get it - it speeds up the verification process. The whole thing can feel overwhelming but the agents are usually pretty helpful once you get through to someone!