grocery stores like stop and shop or key food usually cash checks too, might be cheaper than banks but you gotta buy something usually

Try TD Bank or Capital One if you have one nearby - they usually cash government checks for around $5-8 even without an account. Also some pharmacies like CVS or Duane Reade have check cashing services at their customer service counters. Just make sure to bring valid photo ID and be prepared for the fee. Good luck getting your rent sorted!

honestly the whole phone system is a joke now, they've made it nearly impossible to do anything without going online. even when you do get through they just read you the same info thats on the website

Try going to a local library if you can't get the online filing to work on your phone. Most libraries have computers you can use and the my.ny.gov portal works better on desktop browsers. That's what I did when I was having similar issues.

You can verify your payment method by logging into my.ny.gov and going to the 'Payment Method' section under your unemployment services. If you have direct deposit set up, you'll see your bank info (last 4 digits). If it shows debit card, the KeyBank card typically arrives within 7-10 business days after your first payment is issued. Make sure your mailing address is current because that's the most common reason for payment delays.

The whole NYS Department of Labor payment system is such a mess. I've been dealing with unemployment for 6 months and every step is a nightmare. First the adjudication takes forever, then they approve you but don't tell you how payments actually work. Why can't they just send a clear email explaining the next steps?

One thing to watch out for - if you quit your job instead of being laid off, you probably won't qualify. They're pretty strict about that. But since you said you were laid off due to slow business, that should be fine. Also make sure you have your employer's info handy when you apply because they'll need details about your last job.

@QuantumQueen Based on what you've described, you should definitely qualify! Working 8 months at the restaurant and being laid off (not fired for cause) checks the main boxes. The wage requirements that Aisha mentioned are pretty reasonable - if you made around $15k total, you're likely well above the minimums. I'd recommend applying sooner rather than later because there can sometimes be delays in processing, and your benefit period starts from when you first file, not when you get approved. Also, don't stress too much about the job search requirements right away - you'll get more info about that once your claim is processed. Good luck!

yeah this stuff is so confusing!! why can't they make the rules clearer? seems like you're stuck between a rock and a hard place when you're injured

I went through this exact situation about 8 months ago after a workplace injury. The key thing I learned is that you need to be very honest about your work restrictions when filing for UI. I was cleared for sedentary work but couldn't do my regular job, so I was able to qualify for unemployment while my workers comp case was pending. However, you have to actively search for work you CAN do within your restrictions and report that in your weekly certifications. I'd strongly recommend calling the Department of Labor before filing anything - yes the wait times are terrible, but getting it wrong can create a huge mess later. Also document everything your doctor says about what work you can and can't do.