Just make sure you're being honest about your availability when you certify each week. The question asks if you were able and available for work - if classes would prevent you from taking a job, you need to answer accordingly. Better to be upfront than risk an overpayment later.

I'm in a similar situation - lost my retail job a few weeks ago and considering going back to school. From what I've researched, the key thing is that you have to maintain your availability for work during standard business hours (usually 8am-5pm Monday-Friday). Evening classes like yours should be fine since they don't interfere with typical work schedules. Just make sure you can still attend job interviews, accept work offers, and fulfill the work search requirements. I'd document everything - keep records of your class schedule, job applications, and any communications with potential employers to show you're genuinely available for work despite being in school.

Just wanted to add that for a straightforward layoff like yours, most employers won't contest. It's usually only when there's misconduct or voluntary quit situations that they fight it. You should be fine!

As someone who went through this process recently, I can confirm what others have said - your employer pays unemployment insurance taxes quarterly, but your actual weekly benefits come from the state fund. The key thing to remember is to file your claim immediately when your layoff becomes effective, don't wait! Also, keep your layoff notice/paperwork because NYS DOL will likely ask for it. Since you're being laid off (not terminated for cause), your claim should be approved without issues. The whole process took about 2-3 weeks for me to start receiving benefits after filing online.

have you considered taking on some part time work while you rebuild your business? that way you'd start paying into UI for future protection

I'm in a similar boat - been freelancing as a graphic designer and haven't had steady work in months. From what I've learned, New York does have some options beyond traditional UI that might help. You could look into the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs which sometimes offer support for people transitioning between different types of work. Also, if you're willing to take on even part-time W-2 employment, you'd start building eligibility for future unemployment benefits. In the meantime, definitely explore local food banks and utility assistance programs - many don't require you to have been traditionally employed. The struggle is real when you're self-employed and hit a rough patch.

Just went through something similar with Grubhub documentation! One thing that really helped me was creating a simple spreadsheet that matched up my app earnings with my bank deposits by date - made it super easy for the NYSDOL reviewer to see everything lined up. Also, if you're missing any months of bank statements, most banks let you download statements going back several years through their online portal for free. Don't stress too much - they really just want to verify you weren't making fraudulent claims. The fact that you actually worked and have some documentation puts you in a much better position than people who were completely fabricating employment.

Hey Giovanni! I just went through this exact same situation with NYSDOL about my DoorDash work from 2019. Here's what worked for me: I created a timeline document showing all my gig work by month, then attached bank statements highlighting the deposits, screenshots from the app, and my 1099s. The key thing they told me when I finally got through to an agent was to include a detailed letter explaining any gaps in documentation and why. For example, if you can't find certain months of bank statements, explain that in your cover letter. Also, make sure to submit everything as one complete package rather than sending documents separately - they apparently have issues tracking multiple submissions. The whole process took about 3 weeks once I submitted everything properly. Don't stress too much - they're really just checking that you weren't making false claims, and it sounds like you have solid proof of actual work. Good luck!

Have u reached out to ur previous employer? Sometimes they can help verify ur previous claim or at least provide documentation that might help.

I went through something similar earlier this year - the email issue is such a nightmare with their system! One thing that worked for me was going to my local One-Stop Career Center in person. I brought every piece of paperwork I had from my previous claim (old letters, benefit statements, anything with my claim number on it) and they were able to look me up in their system and help reset my account access. It took about 2 hours but they got me back in same day. Way better than spending weeks on the phone. You can find your nearest location on the NY DOL website under "career centers." Definitely bring your ID, Social Security card, and any old unemployment docs you have. Good luck!