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Pro tip: if you use the card for grocery shopping, always choose 'credit' instead of 'debit' when they ask. Some stores charge extra fees for debit transactions but credit is usually free. Also works at gas stations.
Just want to add that Walmart Money Centers usually have free ATM access for KeyBank unemployment cards too. I've been using the one near me for months with no fees. Also, if you're ever in a pinch and need cash fast, some banks will let you do a counter withdrawal with ID even if you're not their customer - they might charge like $5-10 but it's better than those crazy bodega ATM fees you mentioned. And yes, online purchases work fine, I pay all my bills online with mine.
Thanks for mentioning Walmart Money Centers! I had no idea they were free for these cards. There's actually a Walmart SuperCenter about 10 minutes from my apartment so that could be really convenient. Quick question - do I need to go to the actual Money Center counter or can I just use any ATM inside Walmart? I want to make sure I don't accidentally use a fee-charging machine.
Just a heads up - make sure you apply as soon as possible because there's a waiting week before you can start receiving benefits. Also you'll need to file weekly claims every week even if your initial application is still being processed. The NYS Department of Labor website has all the instructions but it can be confusing at first.
I went through this process about 6 months ago when I was laid off. One thing I wish someone had told me is to take screenshots of your confirmation pages after you submit everything - the system can be glitchy sometimes and it's good to have proof you filed on time. Also, if you worked for multiple employers in the past 18 months, gather all that info before you start because the application will time out if you take too long looking things up. Good luck with your application!
Just make sure you understand the difference between gross and net earnings when reporting. Report your gross earnings (before taxes) not what you actually take home. Also if you get tips or commission those count too.
One thing to keep in mind is that your part-time work might actually help your case in the long run - NYS Department of Labor looks favorably on claimants who are actively working and trying to become self-sufficient. As long as you're still available for full-time work and meeting your job search requirements, having part-time employment shows you're making an effort. Plus, you're building work history and potentially networking for future full-time opportunities. Just stay consistent with your reporting and don't let the partial benefit reduction discourage you from working.
That's a really good point about building work history and networking! I hadn't thought about the long-term benefits beyond just the immediate income. It's reassuring to know that NYS Department of Labor views part-time work positively rather than as trying to "game the system." I'm definitely committed to finding full-time work eventually, so knowing that this part-time job could actually help my case makes me feel better about the whole situation.
I went through this exact same situation last year and it's definitely nerve-wracking. In my case, the review took about 4 weeks and turned out they were just verifying my employment dates with my former employer. The good news is that once it was resolved, I received all the back payments for the weeks I had certified during the review period. My advice would be to keep documenting your job search activities thoroughly - save screenshots of applications, keep a log of contacts with employers, etc. This will be helpful if they ask for proof of your work search efforts. Also, don't stop filing your weekly certifications even though you're not getting paid yet - this is crucial for getting your back pay once the review is complete. Hang in there, it's frustrating but most reviews do get resolved eventually.
Thank you for sharing your experience - it's really helpful to hear from someone who went through the same thing. I've been keeping track of my job applications but I wasn't saving screenshots, so I'll start doing that right away. Did they ever contact you directly during the review process or did it just resolve on its own? I'm worried I might miss some important communication from them.
I'm going through this exact same thing right now - my claim has been under review for about 10 days and I'm also really anxious about it. From what I've been reading online and hearing from others, it seems like most reviews are just routine verification processes where they double-check information with your previous employer or verify your eligibility. The waiting is definitely the worst part because they don't give you any updates or timeline. I've been continuing to file my weekly certifications as everyone recommends, and I'm trying to stay patient even though it's really hard when bills are piling up. One thing that's helped me is knowing that if the review goes in your favor, you'll get all the back pay for the weeks you certified during the review period. Hopefully both of our reviews get resolved soon!
I'm in the exact same boat - filed on January 10th and been under review for about 10 days now. It's so stressful not knowing what's happening or when it might get resolved. I keep checking my account multiple times a day hoping for some update but nothing changes. At least we're not alone in this situation! I'm also continuing to file my weekly certifications and keeping detailed records of my job search just in case they ask for it later. Fingers crossed we both hear something soon - the uncertainty is almost worse than knowing there's a problem.
Santiago Diaz
Check the my.ny.gov site - there should be a notice if offices are closed today. But definitely file that appeal online ASAP since you're cutting it close on the deadline!
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Paloma Clark
I went through a similar situation last year when I was laid off. The online appeal system through my.ny.gov is definitely your best bet - it's available 24/7 and you'll get an email confirmation once it's submitted. Make sure to clearly explain in your appeal that you were laid off due to company downsizing, not a voluntary quit. Include any documentation you have like your termination letter, layoff notice, or emails from HR. The key is being very specific about the circumstances. Don't panic - as long as you submit it before the deadline tomorrow, you should be fine. The system timestamps everything so they'll know it was filed on time.
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