Make sure you're doing everything right with your job search requirements too. If you're not logging enough job contacts or attending required workshops, that could affect your eligibility even before you hit the 26 week limit.

I'm going through something similar - my benefit year ends in a few weeks and I'm really worried about what comes next. From what I've gathered reading through these responses, it sounds like the key is to file a new claim immediately when your benefit year expires, even if you haven't worked since your original claim. The system will figure out if you qualify for a new claim or if they can extend your current one for a few more weeks. I've been keeping detailed records of all my job search activities just in case, and honestly considering that Claimyr service someone mentioned since getting through to a real person at NYS DOL seems nearly impossible. This whole process is so stressful when you're already dealing with unemployment!

wait so did you have to send in pay stubs or anything to prove your employment? or did the level 3 person just fix it in their system?

This is exactly what I needed to hear right now! I'm dealing with a similar situation where they're saying I don't have enough qualifying wages even though I know I do. I've been going back and forth with the regular agents for weeks and getting nowhere. Definitely going to try your approach and specifically ask for someone with higher authority who can actually look at the system properly. Thanks for not giving up and sharing your experience - gives me hope that I can get this sorted out too!

same boat as you, waited 3 weeks thinking id find work fast lol. they let me backdate 2 of the 3 weeks so not terrible. just get it started

I was in a similar situation last year - lost my job and waited almost 3 weeks before filing because I was embarrassed and thought I'd find something quickly. Big mistake! NYS DOL approved my backdate request for 2 out of the 3 weeks I waited. My advice: file your claim TODAY on the NYS DOL website, then immediately request backdating for those 2 weeks you've already been unemployed. "Didn't know I could file immediately" or "thought I would find work quickly" are usually accepted as valid reasons. The worst they can say is no, but you're guaranteed to get nothing if you keep waiting. Don't make the same mistake I did!

Welcome to the ny unemployment hunger games 😂 may the odds of getting through to a human be ever in ur favor

Hey @Kolton Murphy, I went through the exact same nightmare last year! Here's what finally worked for me: 1. Call the ID verification line at 1-855-528-5618 but ONLY between 8:00-8:15 AM when they first open - any later and you'll never get through 2. When you do get through, ask them to email you the alternative verification form for people without credit cards - they have one but don't advertise it 3. You'll need to fill it out and email back scanned copies of your driver's license, social security card, and a recent utility bill or bank statement The whole process took about 5 days once I got the right form. Don't waste time with the main number - it's useless for ID verification. The early morning call window is key! Also, if you're really desperate, I've heard good things about that Claimyr service others mentioned. Sometimes paying to skip the phone hell is worth it when you need your benefits. Good luck - you'll get through this! 💪

The whole system is a joke honestly. $104 a week is nothing in this economy, especially in NYC where rent alone costs more than most people make in unemployment for a month. They expect you to survive on that while jumping through hoops with job searches and weekly certifications. Meanwhile it takes them weeks to process simple claims.

The minimum benefit amount of $104 is unfortunately accurate for New York. It's based on your earnings history, so part-time work naturally results in lower benefits. One thing that might help is checking if you qualify for any additional programs - some people don't realize they might be eligible for SNAP (food stamps) or other assistance while on unemployment. Also, yes you can and should definitely look for full-time work while collecting benefits - that's actually required as part of your job search activities. The system expects you to be actively seeking employment that matches your skills and availability.