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Just wanted to add that when you do apply, make sure you're prepared to start doing the required job search activities immediately. You'll need to log at least 3 work search activities per week and keep detailed records. Don't wait to start looking for work until after your claim is approved.
Don't let the 3-month gap discourage you from applying! I work as a benefits counselor and see this situation frequently. New York is actually more flexible than many states with their filing deadlines. Just be honest about your circumstances when you apply - many people don't realize they're eligible initially. The key thing is to file your claim ASAP and then stay consistent with your weekly certifications and job search requirements going forward. Also, make sure you have your SF-8 form from your employer if you were officially laid off, as this will help speed up the process with NYS Department of Labor.
Thank you so much for the professional perspective! I really appreciate knowing this is a common situation. Just to clarify - what exactly is an SF-8 form? I don't recall getting any specific forms when I was laid off, just my final paycheck stub. Should I contact my former employer to request this, or is there another way to get the documentation I need for my application?
Don't forget about the federal unemployment tax too - that's separate from what you pay to NYS Department of Labor. It's like 0.6% on the first $7,000 of wages per employee if you're current on your state taxes.
Be prepared for your rate to go up after those layoffs. The experience rating system means companies that have more claims pay higher rates in future years. It's not immediate but it'll hit your renewal.
Pro tip: if you're gonna use that Claimyr thing, do it early in the morning. I tried it at like 2pm and was on hold forever. Did it again at 8am and got through in 20 mins.
Hey Evelyn, I went through almost the exact same thing last month! The PIN issue is super frustrating - I was locked out for 3 weeks. What worked for me was calling the automated line (888-209-8124) and doing a PIN reset, but here's the key part: after you reset it, wait 24-48 hours before trying to log in again. The system needs time to sync up. Also, when you do reset, make sure you're using a computer browser, not your phone - the mobile site is glitchy af. Don't lose hope, you'll get through this! The missing payments should show up once you get back in. Keep us posted on how it goes! 💪
This is super helpful! I'm definitely going to try the PIN reset with the waiting period you mentioned. I've been trying to log in immediately after resetting which might be why it's not working. And good point about using a computer instead of mobile - I've been doing everything on my phone. Really appreciate the detailed advice and encouragement! 🙏
same boat here, lost my job in early 2023 and didn't file because I thought I'd find something quick... big mistake
I was in a similar situation a few months ago - didn't file for almost 10 months after losing my job due to family issues. When I finally applied through my.ny.gov, I was surprised to learn that even though my original benefit year had expired, I could still potentially qualify based on any work I had during a different base period. The system automatically checks all possible base periods to see if you have enough qualifying wages. Even if you only worked part-time or temporarily during the past 18 months, it might be enough. Don't let anyone discourage you from trying - the application is free and you'll get a definitive answer about your eligibility. Worst case scenario, you're in the same position you're in now.
This is really encouraging to hear! I didn't realize the system would check different base periods automatically. I actually did do some part-time work for about 2 months in early 2024, so maybe that could help. Thanks for sharing your experience - it gives me hope that it's worth trying the application.
CosmicCruiser
this whole system is so confusing!! why can't they just make it simple to understand when you can reapply and when you can't... spent 2 hours on the website trying to figure this out yesterday and still wasn't sure
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Elin Robinson
•I totally get the frustration! The NYS DOL website isn't the most user-friendly. Here's the simple version: if your benefit year ended (not just your weekly benefits), AND you've worked since filing your original claim, you can file a brand new application. Think of it as starting completely fresh - new base period, new benefit calculation, everything. The temp work @StarStrider mentioned should definitely count toward qualifying for a new claim as long as there were enough total wages earned.
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Olivia Clark
I was in a similar situation earlier this year! Yes, you can absolutely reapply once your benefit year expires. The key thing is that you'll need to have earned sufficient wages during your new base period (which will be different quarters than your original claim). Since you've been doing temp work, make sure to gather all your pay stubs and W-2s from those jobs - even the short-term ones count toward your wage requirements. The online application walks you through it step by step, and it's actually pretty straightforward once you get started. Good luck!
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Carmella Fromis
•Thanks for sharing your experience @Olivia Clark! This is really helpful to hear from someone who went through it recently. Quick question - when you say "sufficient wages during your new base period," do you have any idea what the minimum amount is? I'm trying to figure out if my scattered temp work over the past few months will add up to enough. Some weeks I only worked a couple days, so I'm worried the total wages might not meet whatever threshold they have.
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