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This whole system is so confusing. Like why don't they just put this basic information somewhere easy to find? I spent forever trying to figure out the same thing when I got furloughed.
I totally agree! I think they assume everyone already knows this stuff but when you're newly unemployed and stressed, even basic information like minimum benefit amounts should be clearly listed on the main page. Having to dig through multiple pages or call just to find out if there's a minimum weekly amount is ridiculous.
Exactly! When you're already dealing with the stress of losing your job, the last thing you want is to hunt through confusing government websites for basic info. They should have a simple FAQ section right on the homepage that covers things like minimum benefits, how long it takes to get approved, and what documents you need. Would save everyone so much time and anxiety.
Just wanted to confirm what others have said - the $104 minimum is correct for 2025. I actually had a similar situation where I was working part-time making around $250 a week, and when I calculated my benefits it came out to about $125 weekly, which was above the minimum. The good news is that even in worst-case scenarios, you're guaranteed that $104 floor. Also, don't forget that you might be eligible for additional federal programs or extensions depending on your situation. The NYS Department of Labor website has a benefit calculator tool buried somewhere in their site that can give you a rough estimate before you file your claim.
Just checked my account again and it's back to normal! Shows my correct weeks remaining now. Try refreshing your accounts everyone!
This exact same thing happened to my sister last week! She panicked for hours thinking her benefits were cut off. Turns out it was just a display glitch on their end. The worst part is how hard it is to reach anyone by phone to get confirmation. I'm glad to see from the updates in this thread that it's getting resolved quickly this time. For anyone still worried - definitely take screenshots like others suggested, and try the incognito browser trick if your account is still showing the wrong info!
I went through something similar a few months ago. Even though I was classified as 1099, I still filed because like others mentioned, sometimes companies misclassify workers. In my case, NYS Department of Labor looked at the details of my work arrangement and determined I should have been an employee based on the level of control the company had over my work. It took about 6 weeks to get a decision, but I ended up qualifying for benefits. The key factors they considered were that I worked set hours, used company equipment, and my work was essential to their core business operations rather than a specialized project. Definitely worth filing - you've got nothing to lose by trying.
@Gabriel Ruiz Thanks for sharing your experience! It s'really reassuring to hear from someone who actually went through this process successfully. I m'dealing with a similar situation right now - my marketing contract just ended and I was classified as 1099 even though they had me working their set schedule and using their equipment. Your story gives me the confidence to go ahead and file. Did you have to gather a lot of documentation beforehand, or did they request specific evidence after you filed? I want to be prepared with emails about schedules, access credentials, etc. but wasn t'sure what would be most helpful for their investigation.
@Gabriel Ruiz This is so helpful to hear from someone who actually succeeded with this! I m'in a really similar boat - just finished a 6-month marketing contract where they had me on their schedule and equipment but still gave me a 1099. Your story gives me hope that it s'worth filing even though I m'nervous about it. Quick question - when you initially filed online, did the system give you any trouble for indicating contractor work, or does it let you explain the situation? I m'worried about getting auto-rejected before anyone even looks at the details of my work arrangement.
Hey Max, I've been in a similar situation and I know it's frustrating to realize you missed out on those weeks of benefits. Just want to add that when you do file, make sure you're completely honest about your separation date and reason for leaving. NYS Department of Labor will verify everything with your employer anyway, and any discrepancies can delay or complicate your claim. Also, once you start receiving benefits, don't forget you have to certify every week that you're actively looking for work - missing those weekly certifications can stop your payments. The construction industry can be tough with seasonal layoffs, so definitely get that claim filed today if you can.
Tyrone Hill
The whole NYS Department of Labor system is so confusing with their deadlines and hours. They should make this information clearer on their website instead of having people guess when things are due.
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CosmosCaptain
I totally agree with everyone about the phone system being frustrating! One tip that's helped me - try calling right at 8:00 AM when they open, or during lunch hours around 12-1 PM when call volume sometimes drops. Also, make sure you're using the correct phone number for your specific issue (they have different lines for different problems). For weekly claims, I always submit mine on Sunday evenings just to be safe since the deadline is Sunday at midnight. The my.ny.gov portal is usually pretty reliable for online filing if you can avoid the phone calls altogether.
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CyberSiren
•That's really helpful advice about calling right at 8 AM or during lunch hours! I never thought about trying the lunch time slot. Do you know if there's a way to check online if your weekly claim went through successfully? Sometimes I submit it but get paranoid that it didn't actually process properly.
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