Make sure u get everything in writing and keep copies of EVERYTHING. Also the hearing might be by phone now instead of in person so that makes it easier

I went through a very similar situation about 6 months ago - also got denied for "misconduct" when it was clearly a layoff due to company restructuring. The appeal process was intimidating at first but totally worth it. A few key things that helped me: 1) File your appeal ASAP - you really do only have 30 days, 2) Keep filing your weekly certifications even though you're not getting paid (this was crucial advice I got here), 3) For the hearing, I wrote out a timeline of exactly what happened with dates and kept it simple and factual. The judge was actually very fair and asked good questions. I won my appeal and got all the back pay. Don't let them intimidate you - if you were truly laid off due to downsizing, you have a strong case. Stay organized and stick to the facts!

lmaooo good luck getting anyone on the phone without waiting 4 hours 🤡

First time filing can be nerve-wracking but you're on the right track! Just to add to what everyone else said - make sure you keep all your paperwork from when you got laid off/fired. They might ask for it later. Also download the NY Labor app on your phone, makes the weekly certifications way easier than doing it on the website. The waiting sucks but hang in there! 💪

honestly i've been looking for work for 8 months now and it feels like EVERYWHERE is bad... maybe the numbers look different but when you're actually trying to find something decent it all feels the same

For retail management specifically, I've noticed that areas around college towns tend to have more stability - places like Ithaca, New Paltz, or even Albany due to the steady student population. The seasonal tourism areas like the Adirondacks can be tricky because they have high demand in summer but really slow winters. If you're open to it, the Hudson Valley has been seeing some growth with people moving up from NYC, which might create more retail opportunities. Just my two cents from what I've observed in the market lately.

UPDATE: I was finally able to certify! The automated phone system worked on my second try. For anyone else having this problem, definitely try calling 1-888-581-5812. Thanks everyone for your help!

Just wanted to add that if you're still having trouble with both the website and phone system, you can also try using the NY.gov mobile app. Sometimes it works when the desktop site doesn't. I had similar issues last month and the app got me through when everything else failed. Also, make sure you're not using a VPN if you have one - that can sometimes trigger additional security checks that cause the system to error out. Keep trying different methods and times - the system usually clears up within a few days of these outages!

check if your mail is being forwarded!! these scams often start with the thieves forwarding your mail to get unemployment documents. you can check at usps.com if any forwarding orders have been placed for your address

This is becoming such a widespread problem! I work in cybersecurity and we're seeing this exact scam pattern everywhere. The fact that they're using your real name and address but a fake SSN suggests they got your info from a data breach somewhere. A few things to add to the great advice already given: 1) Sign up for credit monitoring if you haven't already - many banks offer it free 2) Consider placing a security freeze (stronger than fraud alert) on your credit reports 3) File a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) as well 4) If you have any joint accounts or your spouse's info might be compromised, have them take precautions too. The good news is that since they don't have your actual SSN, the damage is likely limited to this unemployment fraud. But definitely act fast and keep pushing until you get through to someone!