The unemployment system is so frustrating! They make it seem like you can never quit but then there's all these exceptions that nobody tells you about. I wasted months at a terrible job because I thought I'd lose benefits if I left.

Before you quit, I'd strongly recommend documenting everything and maybe consulting with a worker's rights organization. A reduction from 35+ hours to 8-10 hours is pretty dramatic - that's basically going from full-time to barely part-time. NYS Department of Labor considers this type of significant hour reduction as potentially qualifying for "constructive dismissal" but you'll want to build a strong paper trail. Save all your schedules, paycheck stubs showing the income drop, and any communications about the hour changes. You might also want to formally request in writing (email works) that your hours be restored to previous levels - if they refuse or ignore you, that strengthens your case that the reduction was involuntary on their part.

Did you recently complete your first 10 weeks of benefits? Sometimes there's a recalculation that happens after the initial period, especially if there were any wage verification issues during your original claim processing.

I had a similar issue last year where my benefits suddenly dropped with no warning. In my case, it turned out that NYS Department of Labor had received updated wage information from a previous employer that changed my base period calculation. The really frustrating part is that they don't automatically send you a notice explaining the change - you have to specifically request a "monetary redetermination notice" to get the details. I'd suggest calling and asking specifically for that document, or if you can't get through by phone, try sending a secure message through your my.ny.gov account requesting an explanation of the benefit reduction and asking for any notices related to monetary redetermination.

For anyone new to the system, here's what you need to know about holiday delays: Payments typically drop the next business day DON'T panic if you don't see it right away They won't respond to questions about where your money is during the delay Plan ahead for these delays around major holidays If you absolutely need to speak with someone, try claimyr.com - they handle the calling and holding for you. Been through this rodeo many times, just gotta roll with it 🤷‍♂️

which holiday is it even for? feels like they take every possible day off 🤡

UPDATE: I finally got through to someone at NYSDOL! Turns out there was an issue with my employment history that required additional documentation - something that was never mentioned anywhere on my online account. They said once I submit the additional info (which I did while on the call), my payments should process within 7-10 days including all the back weeks I've certified for. Such a relief to at least know what was happening! For anyone else struggling to get through, I used the Claimyr service mentioned above and got connected to an agent in about 25 minutes. Worth it after days of failed calling attempts.

Congratulations on getting through and finding out what the issue was! This is exactly why I always recommend people call rather than just waiting - there are so many hidden requirements that never show up in your online account. I had a similar experience where they needed proof of my job search activities from 2 months prior, but there was zero indication of this anywhere on the website. The system really needs better communication. Hoping your payments come through quickly now that you've submitted everything!

good luck mama! its tough out there but you got this

I'm in a very similar situation - been home with my kids for 5 years and just started looking for work again. What I learned is that even though you can't get regular unemployment, there are some other programs that might help. Check if you qualify for emergency assistance through your county's social services department. Also, some community colleges have programs specifically for parents returning to work that include childcare assistance while you're in classes or training. The library in my area also has free computer classes and job search workshops that have been really helpful for getting back up to speed with technology and job applications.