The whole system is set up to screw workers over! They make it nearly impossible to quit an abusive job and still get benefits. Meanwhile employers can fire you for any reason and you get benefits no questions asked. Makes no sense.

Have you considered documenting the hostile work environment through a work journal? I kept detailed daily notes when I was dealing with a similar situation - dates, times, witnesses present, exact quotes when possible. Also, if your manager is cutting your hours significantly, that could potentially qualify as "constructive dismissal" since it's affecting your ability to earn a living. You might want to check if your state has any worker protection agencies that could advise you before you make the decision to quit. Sometimes having an official complaint on file can strengthen your unemployment case later.

Just wanted to say I filed unemployment after being laid off and my old boss actually reached out a few months later when they had an opening. The unemployment claim had zero impact on our relationship. If anything, it showed I was being responsible about my finances during the gap.

Emma, you're overthinking this! Filing for unemployment when you're laid off is exactly what the system is designed for. Your employer already pays unemployment insurance taxes as part of doing business - think of it like any other insurance policy they carry. When you file a legitimate claim after being laid off, you're not "doing anything" to your employer, you're just accessing benefits you're entitled to. In fact, most employers in retail expect their laid-off employees to file for unemployment benefits during slow periods. It sounds like your manager understood the situation was temporary due to budget constraints, so they'll likely view your filing as completely normal and reasonable. Don't let worry about your employer's feelings prevent you from getting the financial support you need right now.

The NYS Department of Labor is just completely overwhelmed right now. My cousin's been waiting 3 months for his appeal to be processed. They're probably understaffed and dealing with a backlog from all the layoffs happening in different industries.

I'm in a similar situation - filed in late October and still waiting. What helped me was contacting my state assembly member's office. They have staff that can actually reach someone at the Department of Labor on your behalf. I called my assemblyperson's district office, explained the situation, and they said they'd make an inquiry. Within a week I got a call back saying there was an issue with my employer's response that was holding things up. Still waiting for resolution but at least now I know what the problem is. Try looking up who represents your district and give their office a call - it's a free service they provide to constituents.

ugh the whole unemployment system is such a nightmare, why can't they just make it easier to fix simple mistakes without having to jump through hoops

I went through something similar when I first filed my claim. Don't panic - mistakes happen and the system is designed to handle corrections. Here's what worked for me: first, document exactly what information you got wrong and what the correct details should be. Then try the secure messaging system through my.ny.gov first - it's often faster than calling. If you don't get a response within a week, then try calling early in the morning (like 8 AM) when the phone lines are less busy. Whatever you do, don't file a second claim - that will definitely cause more problems than it solves. The key is being honest and proactive about the corrections.

I was in a similar situation about 6 months ago and successfully got unemployment benefits after quitting due to workplace harassment. One thing that really helped my case was keeping a written record of every incident - I actually started emailing myself detailed summaries after each confrontation so there would be timestamps. When I filed with NYS Department of Labor, I also included screenshots of the company's employee handbook sections about respectful workplace treatment that my supervisor was clearly violating. The adjudication process took about 3 weeks, but having all that documentation made the difference. Also, when you do quit, make sure to state in your resignation that it's due to the hostile work environment - don't just say you're leaving for "personal reasons" or they might question your good cause claim later.

I'm sorry you're going through this - workplace bullying is serious and can definitely qualify as good cause for unemployment benefits in NY. Based on what others have shared, I'd recommend a few immediate steps: 1) Start documenting everything NOW - write down past incidents with as much detail as you can remember (dates, times, witnesses), 2) Save those text messages from coworkers and ask if they'd be willing to provide written statements, 3) Check your employee handbook for harassment policies your manager is violating, and 4) Even though your store doesn't have HR, consider sending an email to the district manager documenting the issues - this creates a paper trail showing you tried to address it internally. When you do resign, be clear that it's due to the hostile work environment. The fact that your manager is verbally abusing you in front of customers and calling you names creates a strong case for constructive discharge. Don't let anyone convince you that retail work "just involves difficult managers" - what you're describing crosses the line into workplace harassment.