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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?
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! 🙏
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.
I heard they're updating their phone systems soon. Hopefully that'll make it easier to get through. Fingers crossed! 🤞
I'm going through the exact same thing! Been calling for almost two weeks now and it's beyond frustrating. What I've been doing is calling multiple times throughout the day - sometimes I'll call 10-15 times in a row because occasionally one will go through to the hold queue instead of getting that dreaded "high call volume" hangup message. Also, try calling on different days of the week - I've heard Tuesdays and Wednesdays might be slightly less busy than Mondays. It's absolutely ridiculous that we have to jump through all these hoops just to get basic help with our benefits. Stay strong and keep trying! 💪
Luca Romano
yeah taxes suck but at least NY doesn't double-dip you like some states do. just make sure you report it correctly on your 1040
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Amara Eze
Just to add some practical advice for tax planning - if you end up owing on your 2024 return, you might want to make quarterly estimated payments for 2025 if you're still receiving benefits. The IRS generally expects you to pay as you go, and you could face underpayment penalties if you owe more than $1,000 at filing time. Also, keep all your 1099-G forms from NYS DOL - you'll need them to report the income accurately. The tax rate depends on your total income and filing status, but unemployment is taxed as ordinary income at your marginal rate.
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Raul Neal
•This is really helpful advice about quarterly payments! I had no idea about the $1,000 threshold for penalties. Since I owed nothing last year (this was my first time being unemployed), would I still need to worry about underpayment penalties if I end up owing around $1,200 like some others mentioned? Also, when you say "marginal rate" - is that the same as my tax bracket?
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