I had this issue and it turned out someone had already filed a claim using my SSN!!! Call them ASAP and check if that's what's happening. Identity theft with unemployment is huge right now.

I went through this exact same frustrating experience last month! The NY unemployment system is seriously broken right now. After multiple failed attempts online, I found that calling the unemployment office directly at 8:30 AM sharp (right when they open) gave me the best chance of getting through. It still took about 45 minutes on hold, but I was able to speak with an agent who filed my claim over the phone in like 10 minutes. She told me the online system has been having major issues since their last update and they're processing a lot more claims by phone now. Hang in there - once you get a human on the line, they can sort it out quickly!

Just went through this same thing with a rental assistance program. They specifically told me unemployment doesn't count as public assistance but it DOES count as income that they need to verify. So make sure you have your benefit determination letter ready.

I just want to add that if you're applying for federal programs, they often have very specific definitions. For example, HUD housing programs typically don't consider unemployment as "public assistance" but they do count it as income. State programs can vary though. I'd recommend looking for the program's definition section in their application materials - they usually spell out exactly what they consider public assistance. Good luck with your applications!

The NYS Department of Labor system is such a nightmare. I swear they make it as difficult as possible on purpose. Good luck OP, you're gonna need it dealing with their bureaucracy.

I went through something similar about 6 months ago when I had to quit due to a toxic manager. The key thing is to file your claim right away - don't wait any longer! When you file online, there's a section where you can explain why you left your job. Be detailed about the hostile work environment and mention that you have documentation. NYS DOL will schedule a phone interview to go over your case, and that's when you'll present your evidence (those text messages and HR complaint). Even if it takes a few weeks to get a decision, you'll still get backdated benefits to when you first filed if they approve you. The worst thing you can do is wait longer - every day you delay is a day you could potentially lose benefits.

Just wanted to update - my payment came through this morning! So it was exactly 2 business days like everyone said. Thanks for the reassurance, I was definitely overthinking it.

I'm in a similar situation - just got approved after a long wait and submitted my first weekly certification two days ago. Still haven't seen the deposit but reading these responses is really reassuring. It sounds like 2-4 business days is totally normal. I bank with Wells Fargo so hoping to see it by end of week. The anxiety of waiting for that first payment after all the paperwork and delays is real!

Also worth noting that if you do get an overpayment notice, you can appeal it if you think it's wrong. NYS Department of Labor has to prove you weren't eligible for the benefits. Sometimes their calculations are wrong or they don't have all the information about your situation.

Just went through this myself - got an overpayment notice for $3,400 last month. The key thing to understand is that NYS Department of Labor can request repayment even years later if they discover an error or if your situation changes. In my case, it was because I had reported my severance pay incorrectly when I first applied. The scariest part is they can take it from future tax refunds or garnish wages if you don't pay. My advice: keep detailed records of everything you report on your weekly claims and save all your documentation. If you're unsure about anything, it's better to call and ask than to guess wrong.