If you're having trouble reaching someone at NYS Department of Labor to clarify your specific situation, I had good luck using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an actual agent. They have this video demo (https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI) that shows how it works. Saved me hours of trying to call and getting busy signals when I needed to verify my eligibility status during adjudication.

The unemployment system is so confusing! I thought I understood it but then my claim went into adjudication and I realized I had no clue what half these terms meant. At least now I know I can work part-time and still get benefits.

Just want to add that if you have any issues with your application being denied or if they say you don't meet the requirements, you can appeal the decision. I had to appeal when they initially said I didn't have enough earnings but I won the appeal. The key is having all your pay stubs and documentation ready.

One more tip - when you file your initial claim, make sure to have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months ready. You'll also need your employer's information including their address and the reason you're no longer working there. The system will ask for your last day worked and last day paid (these might be different if you got severance or vacation payout). Also, file your claim as soon as possible after becoming unemployed - there's no waiting period in NY to file, and you can't get benefits for weeks before you file your claim, even if you were eligible.

Here's the official guide: When receiving severance, you should still certify weekly but report the severance as income for the week you receive it. After that week, if you receive no other income, continue certifying normally. Remember that severance might affect your initial eligibility period. If you're unsure about anything, best to speak with an agent directly. You can either keep calling the regular number or use claimyr.com to get through faster. Document everything and keep copies of your severance agreement handy.

Just went through this exact situation last week! Yes, you absolutely need to report the severance when you file your weekly claim. Even though the questions don't specifically mention severance, it counts as "earnings" or "income" for that week. When it asks if you worked or earned any money, select yes and enter the severance amount. Your benefits will likely be reduced or stopped for that week depending on the amount, but that's normal and expected. Don't skip filing the claim though - you still need to certify to keep your claim active. Better to report it now than deal with overpayment issues later!

One thing to keep in mind is that if your workers comp case gets resolved and you're still unable to return to your original job, you might then be eligible for unemployment benefits. Also, if your injury is permanent and affects your ability to do your old job, there might be vocational rehabilitation benefits available through workers comp that could help you train for new work. The timing of when you can apply for UI versus when workers comp ends is crucial.

I went through something similar when I injured my shoulder at my manufacturing job. You're right that you generally can't collect both at the same time, but there are a few things worth knowing. First, make sure you're getting the maximum workers comp rate - sometimes they calculate it wrong initially. Second, if your employer offers you modified duty that you can't physically do, document everything because that could potentially open the door to UI benefits later. Also, check if you qualify for any temporary assistance programs through DSS while you're waiting. The income gap between workers comp and your regular pay is brutal, I know. Keep all your medical documentation organized because you'll need it when transitioning between benefits systems.

Make sure you start your job search activities right away too even before your claim is approved. NYS Department of Labor requires you to be actively looking for work and you might need to show proof of your job search activities.

Just want to add - make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment info for the last 18 months ready when you file online. The system will ask for details about your previous employers including dates, wages, and reason you left each job. Having this info organized beforehand will make the application process much smoother and reduce chances of delays.