If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to file your claim or check on adjudication status, I used a service called Claimyr that helped me reach an actual agent. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Really helped when I couldn't get through the regular phone lines.

Just remember you still need to be able and available for work while collecting benefits. If you're still providing full-time care, that could be an issue with your weekly claims.

Just wanted to add that even if you can't get regular unemployment, there might be small business assistance programs through the state or SBA that could help with your catering business. Don't give up on entrepreneurship just because of a slow period!

I'm in a similar boat with my photography business - revenue has been really inconsistent this year. From what I've researched, New York State does have some programs for struggling small businesses even if we can't get regular unemployment. You might want to check out the Empire State Development Corporation's website for business grants and low-interest loans. Also, some local workforce development boards offer training programs that come with stipends while you learn new skills that could complement your catering business. It's worth exploring all options before having to take a traditional W-2 job if you want to keep your business going.

Just to clarify the calculation for everyone - NYS uses your base period which is the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. So if you file in January 2025, your base period would be October 2023 through September 2024. They take your highest quarter earnings, divide by 26, and that's your weekly benefit rate (up to the maximum of $504 in 2025). If you don't have enough wages in the standard base period, you might qualify for the alternate base period which uses more recent quarters.

If your benefit amount seems wrong, I'd definitely recommend filing an appeal or requesting a wage investigation like others mentioned. I had a similar situation where my benefits were calculated using an old part-time job instead of my recent full-time position. The NYS Department of Labor recalculated after I provided additional documentation, and my weekly benefit went from $165 to $312. Don't just accept it if you think there's an error - you have rights to challenge the determination. The worst they can say is that the original calculation was correct, but you might discover missing wage reports or other issues that can be fixed.

Just FYI for anyone reading this - if you switch from check to direct deposit mid-claim, there can be a 1-2 week delay while NYS Department of Labor processes the change. Don't panic if your first direct deposit doesn't come exactly when expected.

I've been getting my NYS unemployment direct deposits at around 2:45 AM on Tuesdays with TD Bank. One thing I learned is that holiday weeks can push it back a day, so if Monday is a federal holiday expect it Wednesday instead. Also make sure you're checking the right account - I accidentally had mine going to an old savings account for two weeks before I realized!

Just a heads up - make sure you continue doing your job search activities even while waiting for the new claim to process. They'll ask about your job search from the week you file the new claim forward.

@Raul Neal - I went through this exact same situation a few months ago. The key thing to remember is that you're essentially starting fresh with a new benefit year. When you file the new claim online, make sure you have all your W-2s or pay stubs from the last 18 months handy, even from jobs during your previous claim period if you had any temp work. Also, don't worry too much about the waiting week - it goes by quickly and you'll be back to receiving benefits. The hardest part is just getting started with that initial application, but once it's submitted the process moves pretty smoothly. Good luck!