Just went through this exact same situation last month! You definitely qualify - I worked Feb through June and got approved no problem. The key thing is making sure you have all your documentation ready when you apply. Also heads up, the online system can be glitchy so if it gives you trouble don't panic, just try again later or early morning when there's less traffic. Good luck! 🍀

Just want to add - don't stress too much about the application process! I was in a similar spot last year (worked March-July) and was worried about the same thing. The NY DOL website has a really helpful eligibility tool that walks you through it step by step. Since you made good money those 5 months, you should definitely qualify. One thing I wish I knew earlier - make sure to apply ASAP since there's usually a waiting week before benefits kick in. The sooner you get the ball rolling, the better! 💪

Just to add - if you do decide to quit, make sure you exhaust all internal remedies first. NYS Department of Labor will want to see that you tried to resolve the issues through proper channels before leaving. Document your attempts to address the problems with management, HR, or union representatives if applicable. Also, if you have any medical documentation related to workplace injuries or stress, keep copies of everything. The appeals process can take time but many people do win these cases when they have proper documentation.

I actually had a similar experience with unsafe working conditions at my previous job. One thing that really helped my case was taking photos of the safety hazards when possible - like the heavy boxes without proper lifting equipment you mentioned. I also kept a detailed diary of every incident, including dates and any witnesses present. When I finally did quit and applied for unemployment, I made sure to explicitly state in my application that I left due to "unsafe working conditions" rather than just saying I quit voluntarily. The initial review can take several weeks, but don't get discouraged if they deny you at first - many of these cases get approved on appeal when you have good documentation. Also, consider filing a complaint with OSHA about the safety issues regardless of your unemployment claim, as that creates an official record that can support your case.

Just wanted to share my experience - I had the same issue last week and finally got through! Here's what worked for me: 1. Filed at 3am on Wednesday - way less traffic on the system 2. Used Firefox browser in private/incognito mode 3. Had all my info ready beforehand so I could move through quickly For the phone, I found calling right at 8am when they open gives you the best shot. Still took like 200+ tries but eventually got through. Also make sure you're saving screenshots of any error messages you get - if you miss your filing deadline because of their technical issues, that documentation will help when you talk to a rep. Hang in there, the system is garbage but you'll get through eventually! 💪

Had the exact same issue yesterday! What finally worked for me was switching to a different browser (Edge) and clearing all my cookies first. Also discovered that if you get an error, don't keep refreshing - wait like 10 minutes before trying again or it locks you out for even longer. The phone lines are absolutely brutal right now, I think everyone's having website problems so they're all calling. If you do get through on the phone, ask them to note in your file that you tried to certify online but couldn't due to technical issues - covers you in case there are any late filing penalties later.

My sister got unemployment when her company relocated to another state and she couldn't move with them. That counted as a layoff even though technically they offered her the job in the new location. So relocation can be another reason if it's unreasonable for you to follow the job.

For seasonal workers and temp employees, you can typically qualify for unemployment benefits between assignments or seasons as long as you meet the wage and work history requirements. The key is that you need to be available and actively seeking work. For seasonal workers, NYS DOL recognizes that your work is inherently temporary, so you're not penalized for the cyclical nature of your employment. Temp workers can collect benefits between assignments if there's no reasonable expectation of returning to work with the temp agency soon. Just make sure to register with the temp agency as available for new assignments to show you're actively seeking work.

Had similar issues reaching someone at NYS Department of Labor about certification questions. Kept getting busy signals and when I did get through, got disconnected twice. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Ended up getting my questions answered about able and available requirements and work search documentation.

BE VERY CAREFUL with those certification questions!!! I answered one wrong about being available and they flagged my entire claim for review. Took 6 weeks to sort out and I almost lost benefits. The system is designed to trip you up I swear.