UPDATE: I finally got through to someone at unemployment! For anyone who might have the same issue in the future - I uploaded my documents (though I was late) and then called using the Claimyr service that someone mentioned below. Got through to an agent who was actually really understanding. She put a note on my account about the late submission and assured me my benefits won't be interrupted. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help and advice!

Great to see this worked out! For anyone else reading this thread, I'd recommend setting up email notifications or calendar reminders immediately when you receive any correspondence from NYSDOL. I learned this the hard way after missing a deadline last year. Also, if you're ever unsure about any unemployment-related deadlines or requirements, don't hesitate to reach out to this community - there are clearly some very knowledgeable people here who are willing to help!

One thing to keep in mind is that if your workers comp case gets resolved and you're still unable to return to your original job, you might then be eligible for unemployment benefits. Also, if your injury is permanent and affects your ability to do your old job, there might be vocational rehabilitation benefits available through workers comp that could help you train for new work. The timing of when you can apply for UI versus when workers comp ends is crucial.

I went through something similar when I injured my shoulder at my manufacturing job. You're right that you generally can't collect both at the same time, but there are a few things worth knowing. First, make sure you're getting the maximum workers comp rate - sometimes they calculate it wrong initially. Second, if your employer offers you modified duty that you can't physically do, document everything because that could potentially open the door to UI benefits later. Also, check if you qualify for any temporary assistance programs through DSS while you're waiting. The income gap between workers comp and your regular pay is brutal, I know. Keep all your medical documentation organized because you'll need it when transitioning between benefits systems.

Here's the official guide: When receiving severance, you should still certify weekly but report the severance as income for the week you receive it. After that week, if you receive no other income, continue certifying normally. Remember that severance might affect your initial eligibility period. If you're unsure about anything, best to speak with an agent directly. You can either keep calling the regular number or use claimyr.com to get through faster. Document everything and keep copies of your severance agreement handy.

Just went through this exact situation last week! Yes, you absolutely need to report the severance when you file your weekly claim. Even though the questions don't specifically mention severance, it counts as "earnings" or "income" for that week. When it asks if you worked or earned any money, select yes and enter the severance amount. Your benefits will likely be reduced or stopped for that week depending on the amount, but that's normal and expected. Don't skip filing the claim though - you still need to certify to keep your claim active. Better to report it now than deal with overpayment issues later!

Just want to add - make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment info for the last 18 months ready when you file online. The system will ask for details about your previous employers including dates, wages, and reason you left each job. Having this info organized beforehand will make the application process much smoother and reduce chances of delays.

Just went through this process myself a few months ago. One thing I wish someone had told me - even though you can file immediately, there's a mandatory one-week waiting period before you can receive your first payment. So even if your claim gets approved quickly, you won't get paid for that first week. Also, make sure you set up direct deposit when you file - getting checks by mail can add another few days to each payment. The whole process from filing to first payment took me about 3.5 weeks, but that first payment covered weeks 2-3 of unemployment since week 1 is the waiting period.

this whole system is ridiculous!! you're literally selling your BLOOD to survive and they want to penalize you for it? meanwhile rich people get tax breaks for breathing. the unemployment office makes everything so complicated on purpose to discourage people from claiming what they're entitled to

I work at a plasma center and can confirm that donation payments are considered reportable income by most state unemployment agencies, including New York. What you're receiving is compensation for your time and biological material, which makes it taxable income. We actually provide donors with 1099-MISC forms at the end of the year for amounts over $600. The good news is that NYS has that partial benefit calculation others mentioned - you won't lose your entire weekly benefit amount, just a portion based on what you earn. It's definitely better to report it accurately from the start rather than risk complications later.