Don't panic! I went through this same process a few months ago and it's really not as complicated as it seems at first. The key thing is to file your claim ASAP - like everyone else mentioned, you want to get that clock started. One tip that helped me: have your bank account information ready too because you'll need to set up direct deposit for your benefits. Also, when you're filling out the application, take your time reading each question carefully. Some of the wording can be a bit confusing but it's better to get it right the first time than have to deal with delays later. You've got this!

I went through this process about 6 months ago and wanted to add a few things that really helped me. First, make sure you have your last few pay stubs handy - they'll ask for your earnings information and it's much easier if you have the exact amounts. Second, the system will ask you to choose between direct deposit and a debit card for receiving benefits. I'd recommend direct deposit if possible since it's faster and more reliable. Also, don't worry if the website seems slow or crashes - it happens a lot, especially on Mondays when everyone is filing their weekly claims. Just keep trying and it will eventually go through. The most important thing is to not delay filing your initial claim even if you're missing some information - you can always update details later, but you can't backdate your claim to an earlier date than when you actually filed.

I went through this whole mess last year and it was a nightmare. Uploaded everything three times before it finally worked. The system is just broken honestly

I just went through this process two weeks ago! For the documents, I uploaded my driver's license and Social Security card - both as phone photos worked fine as long as they were clear and well-lit. The key is making sure all edges of the documents are visible in the frame. It took exactly 7 business days from when I submitted to when my claim status updated. Pro tip: take the photos in good lighting and double-check they're not blurry before uploading. The system is pretty picky about image quality but once you get it right, it processes smoothly.

this whole system is ridiculous they want you to work but then penalize you for working too much its like they dont want people to get back on their feet

I went through this exact same situation a few months ago! The "excessive earnings" determination can be really confusing at first. What helped me was calling the NYS DOL appeals line to get clarification on my specific case. They were able to explain that in my situation, I had miscalculated my allowable earnings for that week. Make sure you're also factoring in any deductions they allow - sometimes there are work-related expenses you can subtract from your gross earnings. Also, keep in mind that even if you have excessive earnings one week, it doesn't affect your future eligibility as long as you report everything correctly going forward. The key is being completely transparent about all income sources.

Just remember you'll get a 1099-G form in January showing all the unemployment income you received during the year. Make sure you include that when you file your taxes!

Great advice everyone! Just wanted to add that you can also estimate your tax liability using the IRS withholding calculator on their website. Since unemployment benefits are taxed as ordinary income, if you were in the 12% or 22% tax bracket at your previous job, the 10% withholding might not be enough. I usually recommend setting aside at least 15-20% to be safe, especially if you're also receiving benefits for state taxes in some situations.

Document everything you can remember with specific dates, times, and witnesses. For hostile work environment claims, NYS DOL wants to see that the situation was "intolerable to a reasonable person." The age-related comments are particularly important - write down exactly what was said and when. Also gather any text messages, emails, or written schedules showing the constant changes. If you have any coworkers who witnessed the yelling or discriminatory comments, ask them to write brief statements. The fact that you complained to the district manager twice and have email proof shows you tried to resolve it internally, which strengthens your case significantly.

The age discrimination angle is really important here - those comments about the job being "too fast-paced for someone like you" could constitute age-based harassment under NY Human Rights Law. When you appeal, make sure to emphasize that this wasn't just general workplace conflict but targeted harassment based on your protected characteristic (age). Also, the constant schedule changes without notice could be seen as creating deliberately impossible working conditions. NYS DOL has been more receptive to constructive discharge cases lately, especially when there's evidence of discrimination. Since you have the emails to district management showing you tried to resolve it, that really helps establish you didn't just quit impulsively. Good luck with your appeal!