UPDATE: My payment went through normally today! No delays or issues. I also managed to get through to someone at NYSDOL (took forever on hold) who confirmed that as long as I continue to report my self-employment income during weekly certifications, I'm good to go. Just wanted to update in case anyone has a similar situation in the future.

That's fantastic news! Thanks for posting the update - this whole thread will be super helpful for other hair stylists and freelancers in similar situations. It's reassuring to know that NYSDOL actually confirmed the process over the phone. Your situation is probably pretty common with all the salon workers who picked up some independent clients during/after COVID. Glad you didn't have to stress about rent money! 🙌

Just wanted to add that you should also verify your quarterly reporting schedule didn't change with the new rate. NYS sometimes adjusts filing frequencies based on your total liability amounts. I had my rate jump from 2.5% to 4.1% last year and they moved me from quarterly to monthly reporting. You can check this on your employer account dashboard on the NYS DOL website. Also, if you're using direct deposit for tax payments, make sure your bank account info is still current - learned that one the hard way when my payment bounced!

One thing I'd add - after you update your SUI rate in QuickBooks, run a test payroll for a small amount first to make sure the calculations look right before processing your full payroll. I always do this when I change any tax settings because it's easier to catch mistakes on a $100 test run than after you've processed everyone's actual paychecks. Also, keep a copy of that rate notice from NYS DOL in your payroll files - you might need it later if there are any questions about when the rate change took effect.

I'm sorry to hear about your situation, Onalee. This is definitely a stressful time. Since you've exhausted your regular NY unemployment benefits, you generally cannot file a new claim in Virginia while your current NY benefit year is still active (until 01/11/2026). However, you do have some options to explore: 1. **Extended Benefits (EB)**: Check if NY is currently offering Extended Benefits due to high unemployment rates in certain areas. This would extend your NY claim. 2. **PEUC or other federal programs**: Depending on current federal legislation, there may be additional weeks available through federal extension programs. 3. **Virginia options**: Once your NY benefit year ends in January 2026, you could potentially file a new claim in Virginia if you've worked there by then. 4. **Other assistance**: Look into Virginia's SNAP, TANF, and local assistance programs while you continue job searching. I'd recommend calling the NY DOL directly to ask about any available extensions or federal programs you might qualify for. Also contact Virginia's VEC to understand your options there. Don't give up - there may be assistance available that isn't immediately obvious!

Onalee, I understand how overwhelming this must be. In addition to what Chloe and Yara mentioned, here are a few more things to consider: **Immediate steps:** - Contact NY DOL at 1-888-209-8124 to verify if any federal extensions are currently available - Apply for Virginia SNAP benefits immediately - you don't need to wait for unemployment decisions - Check with 211 Virginia (dial 2-1-1) for local emergency assistance programs **Important timing note:** Since your benefit year doesn't end until January 2026, you typically can't file a new claim in Virginia until then. However, if you find work in Virginia before then (even briefly), it could potentially create eligibility for a Virginia claim later. **Documentation tip:** Keep records of your job search activities in Virginia - this shows you're genuinely seeking work in your new state, which could be helpful for future applications. The transition between states during unemployment is really challenging, but there are resources available. Don't hesitate to reach out to local churches, community organizations, and food banks in Virginia while you navigate the bureaucratic process. You're not alone in this!

been there, got fired from my warehouse job for missing too many days when my car broke down. stressed about it for nothing - NYS Department of Labor approved my benefits after about a month of back and forth

I went through something similar when I got fired for performance issues at my old job. The NYS Department of Labor website has a good FAQ section that explains the difference between misconduct and performance termination. From what you described - no formal write-ups and just verbal warnings about tardiness - that sounds more like performance issues than misconduct. File your claim ASAP because there's a waiting period anyway, and you can always appeal if they initially deny it. Don't let fear of denial keep you from applying when you might actually be eligible!

Wait I'm confused... if you file a new claim does that automatically end your old one?? I thought they were separate things? I'm about to file a new claim too but I don't want to mess anything up

UPDATE: I finally got through! Called at 8am exactly like suggested and waited about 45 minutes. The rep was actually really nice and said this happens all the time. She manually processed my certification for the last week and said I should see the payment in 3-5 business days. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help!