Been there, it sucks but you'll be fine. Just make sure when you file weekly claims you're actively looking for work because NYS Department of Labor requires job search activities. Keep a log of where you apply. And if you have trouble getting through to speak with someone at NYS Department of Labor about your claim, I used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an agent quickly. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling busy phone lines.

ugh the whole unemployment system is such a nightmare to navigate even when you ARE eligible. I was laid off last year and it took WEEKS to get my first payment because of some stupid adjudication hold that nobody could explain to me. Good luck getting anyone on the phone at NYS Department of Labor!

One thing that helped me understand my disqualification was requesting my complete claim file from NYS Department of Labor. You can see exactly what information they used to make their decision and it might reveal errors or misunderstandings that you can address in your appeal.

I went through something similar and the appeal process is definitely worth pursuing if you believe there's an error. The key is to gather all your documentation - pay stubs, termination letters, anything that proves your work history and the circumstances of your job separations. I was initially denied for "voluntary quit" but it turned out my former employer had reported incorrect information. After appealing with proper documentation, I was approved and received all my back benefits. The appeal hearing lets you present your side of the story directly to a judge, and you can have witnesses testify on your behalf. Don't give up without trying - the worst that can happen is they uphold the original decision, but you might discover there was a mistake in your case.

try contacting your state representative or assemblyperson! sounds crazy but they can actually help with unemployment issues. i was stuck with verification problems for months, called my assembly member's office, and they had it fixed in 2 days. they have special contacts at nysdol.

I went through this exact nightmare last month! After weeks of failed attempts, here's what finally worked for me: 1) Make sure you're using the EXACT same name format across all documents (including middle initial vs full middle name), 2) Take your selfie in natural daylight near a window - the lighting makes a huge difference, 3) If you have any old addresses associated with your credit report, ID.me might be pulling those for verification questions. I had to temporarily lift my credit freeze like someone mentioned above, and that was the key! Also try using a different device entirely - sometimes their system gets glitchy with certain browsers/phones. Don't give up, it's incredibly frustrating but there IS a solution that will work for your specific situation.

This might sound crazy, but try tweeting at the DOL. I did that out of frustration and surprisingly got a response pretty quickly.

I went through the exact same thing last year! The adjudication closed with radio silence for almost 2 weeks. Turns out there was a glitch in their system and my decision letter got stuck in processing. What finally worked for me was calling the technical support line instead of the regular claims line - they have a separate number for system issues. The wait was still brutal but at least I got through. Also, make sure you're checking your online account AND the separate "correspondence" section - sometimes documents show up there first before being mailed. Don't lose hope, it will get resolved eventually!

Don't stress too much about the employment length thing. Like others said, it's about your total earnings over the base period quarters, not how long you stayed at one specific job. The system is designed to help people who lose work through no fault of their own.

Just to add some clarity - the base period calculation can be confusing but it's actually pretty straightforward once you understand it. Since you worked for 2 years at your previous job, you definitely have wages in multiple quarters which is what matters most. The NYS DOL will look at your highest quarter earnings to determine your weekly benefit amount too. Even if your current job doesn't work out after 6 weeks, those 6 weeks of wages will just be additional earnings on top of your already qualifying base period. Don't let the fear of not qualifying stop you from filing if you do get laid off - worst case they say no, but based on what you've described you should be fine.