Wait so there's really no annual limit? That seems weird because I thought there was some kind of cap on total benefits you could collect in a year. Maybe I'm thinking of something else though.

Just wanted to add that when you reapply, make sure to report all your work and wages from your temporary job accurately. NYS DOL will verify this with employers anyway, so being upfront about everything helps avoid delays. Also, if you're eligible to reopen your existing claim from January, that's usually faster than filing a brand new application. You can check your benefit year end date by logging into your my.ny.gov account - it should show when your current benefit year expires.

Just keep in mind you still have to do job searches even with partial unemployment. Some people think since they have a job they don't need to look for other work but NYS Department of Labor still requires it unless you're on standby status.

@Mia Green I was in almost the exact same situation last month! Restaurant hours got slashed due to slow business and I was panicking about rent. Filed for partial unemployment through my.ny.gov and it was honestly pretty straightforward. The weekly certification is key - just be super honest about every dollar you earn that week. NYS calculates it automatically and you'll usually get a partial payment that helps bridge the gap. Definitely worth applying since involuntary hour reduction totally qualifies you. Don't stress about "getting in trouble" - you're doing exactly what the system is designed for!

You can also try messaging them through the online portal but don't expect a quick response. I sent a message 3 weeks ago and still haven't heard back. The whole system is just overwhelmed and understaffed.

Make sure you're checking your claim status regularly online too. Sometimes they'll request documents or information and if you miss it, your claim gets delayed even more. The NYS Department of Labor website isn't the greatest but it's usually faster than trying to reach someone by phone.

The unemployment system is so rigged against workers it's ridiculous. They expect you to have perfect attendance even when life happens. My friend got denied for missing work when her kid was in the hospital. HOSPITAL! But somehow that's not a good enough reason according to NYS Department of Labor. You almost need a lawyer for these appeals.

Quick question - did you check if your company has a progressive discipline policy? Like written warning first, then suspension, then termination? If they skipped steps that could help your case too

You definitely want to apply for SNAP and see if you qualify for emergency assistance through your county's Department of Social Services. Also check if your local food banks have any job training programs - some of them partner with employers for direct hiring. Don't wait until your last payment to start applying for other help.

I'm in a similar situation - my benefits are ending in a few weeks and I'm terrified. Has anyone had luck with the WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) programs through the career centers? I heard they sometimes provide funding for retraining or certification programs while you're job searching. Also, @Klaus Schmidt, you might want to check if your county has emergency rental assistance programs - many still have federal funding available from the pandemic relief money. It's not much but could buy you some time while you figure out next steps.