Ugh the whole system is designed to screw over workers. Companies pay pennies into unemployment compared to what they save by fighting legitimate claims. Even if they lose the fight they've delayed your benefits for weeks. It's all about protecting corporate profits over helping people who lost their jobs through no fault of their own.

I went through something similar and it's so stressful! One thing that helped me was requesting a phone hearing instead of just submitting documents - it gave me a chance to tell my side of the story directly to the adjudicator. Also, if you have any coworkers who were laid off at the same time or can verify it was budget cuts, their statements could really strengthen your case. The system is definitely frustrating but don't give up - most legitimate claims do get approved eventually.

I gave up on calling after 2 weeks of trying and used claimyr.com instead. Talking to an agent got my $ unlocked so fast. They basically keep calling the unemployment line for you and then connect you when they get through to a human. Total lifesaver when you're dealing with confusing letters like this!

I went through this exact same confusion with NY unemployment about 6 months ago! The mixed messages are unfortunately super common - I got a denial letter one day and then approval paperwork the next. What I learned is that the denial was usually for a specific week or issue (like the waiting week that everyone gets denied for), while the approval covers the rest of your claim. The appointment is actually a really good sign - they don't schedule those unless your claim has at least some validity. It's basically just them making sure you understand the work search requirements and how to use their system properly. Don't stress too much about it, just bring documentation of any job searches you've done and your ID. The whole system is incredibly confusing but you're probably in better shape than you think!

I remember when I was on unemployment last year, I had the same question about partial credit. It took me weeks to figure out that it was actually helping me transition back to full-time work. The NYS Department of Labor system is designed to encourage people to take whatever work they can find while still providing support. Just keep reporting your earnings honestly and you'll be fine.

I went through the exact same confusion when I first started working part-time while on unemployment! The term "partial credit" is really misleading - it sounds like you're getting penalized, but it's actually the opposite. What they mean is that you're getting "partial" unemployment benefits because you're earning "partial" income from work. The NYS Department of Labor basically reduces your weekly benefit amount proportionally based on what you earned that week. So if you normally get $300/week in benefits but earned $100 working, they'll reduce your benefit payment but you'll still get something. It's their way of encouraging people to work whatever hours they can find while still providing support. Just keep reporting your earnings accurately each week and you'll be totally fine - you're doing everything right!

The whole system is so frustrating! I remember when I filed it took 3 weeks just to get my determination letter, then another week before the money actually showed up in my account. Make sure your direct deposit info is correct or add even more time for a debit card to arrive in the mail.

I'm going through the same thing right now - filed 10 days ago and still waiting. What helped me was calling the automated phone line (888-209-8124) which at least confirmed my claim was received and being processed. The recording mentions that first-time filers should expect 2-3 weeks before seeing payments. Also double-check that you've completed all the required steps in your online account - sometimes there are additional forms or identity verification that can hold things up. Hang in there, the waiting is definitely the hardest part!

make sure ur answering all the weekly questions correctly. one wrong answer can mess up the whole payment

Had the exact same thing happen to me last month! The effective days getting deducted but showing $0 is actually normal - it means your claim is being processed but the payment hasn't hit your account yet. Since it's been 3 days since the 12/03 release date, I'd definitely call your bank first thing tomorrow morning like others suggested. Sometimes there's just a delay on their end. Don't stress too much about the benefit year ending - as long as you keep certifying weekly you should be good. The system is just slow sometimes 😅