yeah file asap dude, no point in waiting around

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago when my position was eliminated due to company restructuring. Like everyone else said, there's no official deadline but you definitely want to file ASAP. What really helped me was having all my documents ready - W2s, pay stubs, and the exact dates of employment. The online system at labor.ny.gov is pretty straightforward but make sure you have your SSN and employer info handy. Also heads up - your first payment might take 2-3 weeks to come through even after you file, so don't panic if it's not immediate. You got this!

If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to ask questions about your claim timing, I used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me reach an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Was way easier than sitting on hold for hours just to ask about filing deadlines and claim status.

Just file online at my.ny.gov ASAP. Don't overthink it. You need your social security number, employment history for the last 18 months, and your employer's info. The whole process takes maybe 20-30 minutes and then you'll start getting weekly claim forms. The longer you wait the more money you're throwing away.

thanks for explaining this! always wondered about the history

What's really interesting is that New York was actually one of the first states to implement unemployment insurance even before the federal Social Security Act. The state passed its own unemployment insurance law in 1935, just months before the federal legislation. The NYS Department of Labor has been refining this system for almost 90 years now, which explains why it has so many detailed procedures and requirements - they've had decades to build out all the fraud prevention measures and eligibility criteria that sometimes make the process feel overwhelming for claimants.

Just wanted to jump back in and say I've been reading all your comments and they mean so much. This is exactly the supportive community I was hoping for. Let's keep lifting each other up through this unemployment journey. ❤️

This post really hit home for me. I just started my unemployment claim process last week and I was already feeling overwhelmed by all the paperwork and requirements. Reading through everyone's experiences here - both the struggles and the successes - makes me feel less alone in this. It's amazing how much difference it makes to know there are real people going through the same thing who are willing to help each other out. Thank you @Amina for creating this positive space! 🙏

Just wanted to add that you'll still need to do the job search requirements even while on SSDI. NYS Department of Labor requires three work search contacts per week unless you're on standby status. Make sure you keep your job search log updated when you file your weekly claims.

I just went through this exact situation last year! I'm on SSDI and was able to collect unemployment when I lost my part-time job. The NYS Department of Labor did ask me to explain how I could be available for work while on disability during my phone interview, but I explained that my disability allows me to work part-time with accommodations. They approved my claim without any issues. Just be honest about your work limitations when you file - they understand that SSDI recipients can often still work in some capacity. Good luck!