This whole gig economy unemployment thing is such a mess. Half the time they don't know how to handle our situations and we get stuck in adjudication forever while they try to figure out if we qualify or not. The system wasn't designed for people like us.

I'm in a similar situation as an Uber driver in NYC - my earnings have dropped significantly over the past few months. From what I've researched, you'll definitely want to gather all your documentation before applying. Besides the 1099s and bank statements others mentioned, I'd also recommend keeping your Uber driver app earnings statements and any tax returns where you reported this income. The NYS Department of Labor website has a section specifically for independent contractors that walks through the eligibility requirements. One thing I learned is that they calculate your benefit amount differently than for traditional employees, so don't expect the same formula. Also consider applying sooner rather than later since there can be waiting periods and backlogs like others have mentioned.

also make sure you check your debit card balance online not just wait for a text notification, sometimes those are delayed

One thing that helped me track my payments better was setting up text alerts through the KeyBank debit card system (if you're using the standard NY unemployment card). You get notified immediately when funds are deposited, which takes the guesswork out of checking your balance constantly. Also, payments typically don't process on weekends or holidays, so if you certify late in the week, you might be waiting until the following Tuesday or Wednesday for the deposit.

Your UI tax rate can go up if you have too many successful claims against your account, so it's definitely worth contesting if you have good documentation of misconduct.

Just want to add that you should respond to any NYS Department of Labor notices quickly - I think you only have 10 days to contest a claim once they notify you. Also keep copies of everything you submit because sometimes they lose paperwork and you'll need to resubmit. The system can be frustrating but it's worth fighting if you have clear evidence of misconduct rather than just poor performance.

Just wanted to say good luck with your claim! Being fired is stressful enough without worrying about whether you'll be able to pay bills. At least unemployment exists to help people in situations like this.

I went through something similar when I got terminated from my office job about 8 months ago. The key thing is to apply right away and be completely honest about what happened. When NYS Department of Labor asks about the reason for separation, explain that you were told it was for performance but you believe it may have been retaliation for raising legitimate workplace concerns. Document everything you can remember about the scheduling complaints you made and when you made them. Even if the adjudication process takes a while, you want to get your claim date established as early as possible since benefits are calculated from when you first file, not when they approve it. Don't let the termination discourage you from applying - plenty of people who were fired still qualify for benefits.

just make sure you document everything from your job - any emails, performance reviews, etc. if your employer tries to fight the claim you'll need proof

I went through this exact situation a few months ago - also retail, also "performance issues" with no formal documentation. The good news is that NYS Department of Labor generally sides with employees when employers can't provide concrete evidence of misconduct. The lack of written warnings actually works in your favor because it shows they didn't follow progressive discipline. File your claim ASAP since there's a waiting period, and be honest about the circumstances when you apply. Even if your employer contests it (which they might to avoid their unemployment insurance rates going up), you'll likely win an appeal hearing. Hang in there - the process can be stressful but you should be able to get benefits while you job search.