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Make sure you keep all your WARN pay documentation! NYS Department of Labor will want to see the dates and amounts when they review your claim. Also don't forget you still need to do the job search activities during the WARN period even though you're not getting UI benefits yet.
Just went through this myself when my company closed last month. The key thing to understand is that WARN pay essentially "pushes back" when your unemployment benefits start, but it doesn't affect the total amount you're eligible for. Think of it as the state saying "you're still technically employed during those 60 days even though you're not working." I know it feels unfair, but filing immediately is still the right move because there can be delays in processing, and you want everything ready to go when that WARN period ends. Also, double-check if your employer is paying into the state system during those 60 days - that can affect things too.
definitely document EVERYTHING. dates times what was said who was there. i learned that the hard way when i tried to appeal my denial. also make sure you keep applying for jobs while your claim is being reviewed because they'll want to see your job search log either way
I went through something very similar with NYS Department of Labor about 6 months ago. Quit due to a hostile supervisor who was creating an unsafe work environment. The key thing that helped my case was keeping a detailed journal of incidents - dates, what happened, any witnesses present. I also had my doctor write a letter specifically stating that my work environment was contributing to my anxiety and recommending I remove myself from the situation for my health. It took about 8 weeks for them to make a decision, but I was approved. The medical documentation was crucial - make sure your doctor's notes specifically connect your health issues to the work environment, not just general stress. Also, if you ever complained to management about the conditions (even informally), try to get that documented somehow. Good luck!
Been through this exact same nightmare with my brother's account last month. Here's what finally worked for us: Call the 800-833-3000 tech line first thing in the morning (like 8:01 AM) - way better chance of getting through. Have EVERYTHING ready: SSN, old passwords, security questions, phone numbers they have on file, etc. If the reset tool on ny.gov isn't working, it's usually because there's a security flag on the account. Only phone support can clear that. Pro tip: if you get disconnected (happens all the time), immediately call back and tell them you got cut off - they can sometimes see the previous call attempt and fast track you. The Bronx career center on 149th is nice but yeah they literally can't touch account issues - learned that the hard way 😅 Hang in there! Once you get the right person on the phone it takes like 10 minutes to fix.
Just wanted to say I was in a similar situation last year and it worked out fine. The application process seems overwhelming but it's really not that bad once you start. Make sure you have your employment history ready with dates and employer info.
I just went through this process myself a few months ago and wanted to share what helped me. Beyond the basic eligibility requirements others mentioned, I'd suggest gathering all your employment documents before you start - W-2s, pay stubs, and exact dates of employment for all jobs in the past 18 months. Also, start thinking about your job search strategy now because you'll need to begin those 3 weekly activities right after filing. One tip: create a simple spreadsheet to track your work search activities from day one - include company name, position, how you applied, and date. It makes the weekly certifications much easier and you'll be prepared if they audit your claim later.
Freya Collins
wait so you can appeal even after they already denied you?? I thought once NYS Department of Labor made a decision that was it. I got denied 2 months ago for 'voluntary quit' even though I was laid off and just gave up trying to fight it. is it too late for me to appeal now?
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Keisha Johnson
•Unfortunately, you only have 30 days from the date on your determination notice to file an appeal, so if it's been 2 months you've likely missed that window. However, you might want to call NYS Department of Labor anyway to double-check - sometimes they'll accept late appeals if you have a really good reason for the delay (like serious illness or not receiving the notice). It's worth a shot since you were actually laid off and not a voluntary quit. @Freya Collins
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Brianna Muhammad
Make sure you keep detailed records of everything during your appeal. I won mine but it was stressful having all my documentation scattered everywhere. Also yes you should definitely keep filing your weekly claims even if you're not getting paid - if you win the appeal you'll get all that back pay.
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