Just wanted to add that if you do file and get denied, you can appeal the decision. Sometimes NYS Department of Labor doesn't have complete records and additional documentation can help your case. Good luck with whatever you decide to do!

I went through something similar when I worked as a babysitter for a family that moved. One thing that might help is to ask your current family directly about the tax situation before they leave - they might have been paying into unemployment insurance without you realizing it. Some families do handle the paperwork properly even if they don't always communicate it clearly to their nannies. Also, even if this job doesn't qualify you for benefits, make sure your next nanny position is set up correctly from the start so you're protected in the future. You can ask potential employers upfront if they'll be treating you as a household employee with proper tax withholdings.

my payment finally came thru this morning! took exactly 9 days like the other person said. check ur account it might be there

So glad to see this got resolved for everyone! This whole thread was super helpful - I'm dealing with a similar delay right now (day 5 of waiting) and was starting to panic. The info about the quarterly reviews and system updates really puts things in perspective. Bookmarking that Claimyr service and the phone number sequence in case I need them. It's crazy that NYSDOL doesn't communicate these delays better - would save everyone so much stress if they just sent out notices when there are known processing issues.

Just wanted to add that even after approval you won't get paid immediately - there's usually a one week waiting period for your first payment. Budget accordingly!

I went through this process about 8 months ago after my company downsized. The good news is that since you were laid off (not fired for cause), your claim should process relatively smoothly. In my experience, I got my monetary determination letter in about 10 days, and my first payment came 3 weeks after filing. The key is to keep certifying weekly even while you're waiting - you can do this through the same portal where you filed your initial claim. Also, make sure to apply for jobs and keep records since they may ask for proof later. Hang in there, the process feels slow but it does work!

The whole system is honestly pretty confusing at first but you get used to it. Just remember that if your claim gets approved, your first payment usually comes about 2-3 weeks after filing if everything goes smoothly. But don't panic if it takes longer - mine took 5 weeks because of some verification issues.

Thanks everyone for all this helpful info! I'm definitely going to file today after reading all of this. One quick question - when you say they contact your employer to verify employment, do they actually call them or is it just through some automated system? I'm worried my old manager might say something negative since the layoffs were pretty sudden and there was some tension. Also, should I expect to get any paperwork in the mail or is everything done online these days?

Just went through this process myself last month. Filed on a Tuesday, got approved the following Monday, and received my first payment that Thursday. The whole thing was about 10 days total. The trick is being super accurate with all your information and making sure your employer doesn't contest the claim.

@Yara Haddad I just went through this exact situation a few months ago! Here's what really helped me speed things up: 1) File online immediately - don't wait, the system processes faster than phone claims 2) Have your last 18 months of employment history ready with exact dates and employer contact info 3) Set up direct deposit right away in your account settings 4) File your weekly certification every Sunday religiously, even before you're approved. Also, regarding your rent situation - contact your landlord now and explain you're between jobs but have filed for unemployment. Many landlords are understanding if you communicate early. You might also look into local emergency rental assistance programs while you wait for benefits to kick in. The waiting is stressful but most people do get their first payment within 2-3 weeks if there are no complications. Hang in there!