Don't wait any longer!! File online at ny.gov today. The application isn't that hard and you can always call if you get stuck on something. Better to get the process started now than lose another week of benefits.

I went through the same situation last year - waited about a month before applying and kicked myself for it. The good news is you can definitely still apply since it's only been 6 weeks, but you're right to be concerned about the timing. When you do apply, make sure you keep detailed records of your job search activities because they'll ask about that during your weekly certifications. Also, be prepared that it might take a few weeks to get your first payment even after you're approved, so don't wait any longer. The online application at ny.gov is pretty straightforward - just have your Social Security card, driver's license, and information about your last employer ready.

dont even get me started on trying to reach a human there... literally easier to find bigfoot 👀

Just went through this exact same thing last month! The system definitely shows weird dates sometimes but you're right to be confused. Here's what worked for me: 1. Ignore whatever date it's showing - you're always certifying for the PREVIOUS complete week (Sunday to Saturday) 2. If it's asking about "this week" that's still happening, that's definitely a system glitch 3. Report your hours/earnings from the most recent COMPLETED week only 4. Don't wait - the system won't fix itself and you might miss your certification window The NY unemployment system is notoriously buggy with dates. I've seen it show next week, last month, even random dates from 2023 lol. Just stick to the rule: previous complete week only. If you're still getting errors or weird behavior, screenshot everything and try certifying during off-peak hours (like 6am or after 10pm). The system seems to work better when fewer people are on it. Hope this helps! The whole process is frustrating but once you get the hang of it, it gets easier.

The burden of proof is on your employer to show you committed misconduct. Being bad at your job isn't misconduct - it has to be willful violation of company policy or something similar. Document everything you remember about your termination meeting and file that claim ASAP. You've got this!

I went through almost the exact same situation last year - warehouse job, "performance issues" after busy season, no written warnings. Filed my claim and got approved after about 3 weeks. The key is being factual when you describe the separation. Don't get emotional or defensive, just state that you were terminated for alleged performance issues despite having no prior disciplinary actions on record. The lack of documentation from your employer actually helps your case because it shows they didn't follow proper progressive discipline procedures. Stay strong and file that claim today!

I agree that NYS should make this clearer! I think a lot of people miss out on benefits they're entitled to because the distinction between W2 contractors and 1099 contractors isn't well explained. For anyone reading this thread, the general rule is: if you got a W2 and had payroll taxes taken out, you were likely an employee for unemployment purposes regardless of whether it was called "contract work." The staffing agency was probably paying unemployment insurance on your behalf. Definitely worth filing a claim!

This is really helpful information! I'm currently a W2 contractor through a staffing agency and wasn't sure about my eligibility either. It's good to know that having taxes withheld and getting a W2 makes you eligible. I've been saving up just in case my contract ends, but it's reassuring to know unemployment benefits are an option. Thanks for asking this question - I'm sure lots of people are in similar situations and don't know their rights!

I went through something similar last year and what finally worked for me was a combination approach. First, I called my state senator's office AND assembly member's office on the same day - don't just leave messages, keep calling until you speak to a real person in constituent services. Tell them it's an urgent financial hardship. Second, I filed complaints with BOTH the Governor's office (there's an online form at ny.gov under "File a Complaint") AND the NY State Inspector General's office. The Inspector General complaint seemed to carry more weight. Third, and this was key - I wrote a formal letter (not just email) to the DOL Commissioner with copies to my elected officials stating that I was being denied due process and considering legal action. I sent it certified mail so they had to sign for it. Within 10 days of doing all three things, I got a call from a DOL supervisor who resolved my claim immediately. The key is hitting them from multiple angles at once so they can't ignore you. Don't do just one thing - do everything simultaneously to create pressure. Also keep detailed records of every contact attempt with dates and times. Good luck!

I'm dealing with a similar situation - been waiting 10 weeks for my claim to process with zero movement. Reading through all these responses, it sounds like the multi-pronged approach that @Yara Assad outlined is the way to go. I had no idea about the expedited hardship review for claims over 6 weeks or that the Inspector General's office handles DOL complaints. One question - for those who successfully got through to elected officials, did you call their local district offices or the Albany/Capitol offices? I want to make sure I'm contacting the right numbers when I start making calls tomorrow. Also, when you sent that certified letter to the DOL Commissioner, did you include specific legal language about due process violations, or just explain your situation? This thread has been incredibly helpful - feels good to know I'm not alone in this nightmare and that there are actually concrete steps I can take beyond just waiting on hold for hours every day.