To answer your original question more completely - after you apply, expect to receive several pieces of mail from NYS Department of Labor. First will be your monetary determination showing your benefit amount, then instructions for filing weekly claims, and possibly requests for additional documentation depending on your situation. The key is to respond to everything promptly and keep filing those weekly claims even if your first payment is delayed. Most people get their first payment within 2-3 weeks if there are no complications with their claim.

Just went through this process myself a few months ago and wanted to add a couple things that helped me. First, create your NY.gov account BEFORE you need it - the system can be slow and you don't want to deal with account setup when you're stressed about filing. Second, keep screenshots of everything you submit because the system occasionally glitches and loses information. Also, if you're worried about the job search requirement, LinkedIn Easy Apply jobs count toward your three weekly contacts, which makes it much easier to hit that number. The whole process is definitely overwhelming at first but once you get into the routine of filing weekly claims it becomes pretty straightforward.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this - the NY unemployment system is absolutely broken! I went through something similar a few months ago where I was stuck in "waiting week" limbo for almost 2 months. What finally worked for me was a combination of things: first, I logged into the desktop site instead of mobile and found a hidden identity verification task that wasn't showing up on my phone. Second, I sent that email to the commissioner's office that someone mentioned (nysdolcommissioner@labor.ny.gov) with "URGENT PAYMENT DELAY" in the subject line. But honestly, what got me the fastest results was using claimyr.com to actually get through to a real person - the agent I spoke with was able to see that my account had some kind of technical hold that only they could remove. All my backpay hit my account 2 days later. Don't give up on those payments you're owed! Even though you found a new job, you're still entitled to get paid for those weeks you were properly unemployed and certifying. The system makes it seem hopeless but there are ways to get through to the right people who can actually fix these issues.

I'm experiencing the exact same issue! Filed in early March after being laid off, got approved with a $385 weekly benefit amount, but I've been stuck in "waiting week" status for 4 weeks now with $0 payments. I've certified every week correctly and there are no obvious error messages in my account. After reading through all these comments, I'm definitely going to try logging in from my laptop instead of just my phone app to see if there are hidden verification tasks. It's insane that the mobile site apparently hides important information! I'm also going to try that commissioner email approach and possibly use claimyr.com if nothing else works. It's both frustrating and somewhat reassuring to see so many others dealing with this same broken system. The fact that they can approve claims but then have these hidden technical holds without properly notifying people is just ridiculous. Thanks OP for posting this - at least now I know there are actual solutions that have worked for people instead of just endless calling with no results!

Three weeks isn't that bad honestly. My cousin waited 2 months for his decision last spring. The judges are overwhelmed with cases right now.

I went through a similar situation last year and the waiting is absolutely brutal. Three weeks is actually pretty normal timing - mine took about 4 weeks after the hearing. The fact that your employer barely participated and couldn't provide documentation is definitely a good sign for your case. In the meantime, have you looked into emergency rental assistance programs? Many counties in NY have programs that can help with rent while you're waiting for the appeal decision. Also make sure you're applying for food assistance if you haven't already - you can do it online through myBenefits.ny.gov. Hang in there!

Been there! The hardest part is just getting started honestly. Once you get into the rhythm of filing your weekly claims it becomes routine.

Just wanted to add something that helped me when I was in your situation - make sure you have all your employer information ready before you start the application. You'll need things like your employer's full business name, address, phone number, and the dates you worked there. Also gather your pay stubs from the last few months if you have them. Having everything organized beforehand makes the online application process much smoother. The my.ny.gov site can be a bit slow sometimes, so don't get discouraged if it takes a while to load pages. And remember, even though you're stressed about rent, try to be patient with the process - it really does work once you get through the initial setup!

this whole workers comp system is a JOKE! they make you jump through hoops and then barely give you enough to survive on. meanwhile the insurance companies are making bank off our injuries!

@Amelia Martinez - I know this is a tough situation financially. While you can't collect both benefits simultaneously, you might want to look into other assistance programs that could help bridge the gap. SNAP benefits, local food banks, utility assistance programs, and temporary financial aid from community organizations might be options. Also, check if your workers comp includes vocational rehabilitation services - sometimes they can provide additional support or training while you recover. Don't give up, and make sure you're getting the full workers comp benefits you're entitled to.