THE SYSTEM IS RIGGED ANYWAY! Employers pay these tiny taxes compared to what workers need when they lose their jobs. Then they fight every claim to keep their rates low. Don't worry about your boss - worry about getting what you deserve!!!

Just to add some detail - your employer pays unemployment insurance taxes based on their "experience rating" which looks at their history of layoffs and claims. So while they're not paying for your specific benefits right now, companies that lay off workers more frequently do end up paying higher rates over time. It's designed to encourage stable employment while still providing the safety net you need. Don't let worry about your employer stop you from filing - this is exactly what the system is for!

Been through this process twice unfortunately. Your employer will get a notice from NYS Department of Labor about your claim and they have the opportunity to respond if they want to contest it. Since you were laid off due to lack of work, they probably won't contest it. That's considered involuntary separation and you should qualify for benefits.

Nathan, since you were laid off due to lack of work rather than any performance issues, you should be in good shape for your unemployment claim. Keep all documentation from your layoff - any emails, letters, or notices about the reduction in workforce. This will help if there are any questions about your eligibility. Also, make sure to file your weekly certifications on time once your claim is approved. The NYS DOL is pretty backlogged, so be patient but persistent if you need to follow up on anything.

Wait are you talking about like the official unemployment rate or just more people filing claims? Because those are different things and I'm confused about what you're asking...

I went through a similar situation during the last recession and can share some insights. Yes, when unemployment spikes, processing times at NYS Department of Labor definitely get longer - sometimes significantly. But here's what many people don't realize: if you're currently working part-time, you might actually be eligible for partial unemployment benefits right now while you're employed. Since you mentioned your part-time job barely covers rent, you should look into filing a partial claim. The benefit amount gets reduced based on your part-time earnings, but it could help bridge the gap. Also, if you do end up needing to file again, having recent work history (even part-time) can actually help your case since it shows you're actively trying to work. Just make sure to report all your part-time wages correctly when filing.

Has anyone tried the phone app for ID.me? I couldn't get the website to work AT ALL but somehow the app walked me through everything much easier. Just a thought if ur stuck.

I went through this EXACT same situation last month - no email, payments stopped, and that confusing ID.me website that just shows shopping deals! Here's what finally worked for me: 1. Go directly to https://hosted-pages.id.me/nysdol-unemployment (NOT the regular ID.me site) 2. If you already created an account on the regular site, you can use the same login 3. You'll need your driver's license, social security card, and phone for selfie verification 4. The whole process took me about 30 minutes, but then I had to wait for a video chat with a "trusted referee" which added another hour 5. After completion, it took exactly 4 business days for my payments to resume with full backpay Pro tip: Do it during weekday mornings if possible - the video chat wait times are much shorter then. And make sure you're in good lighting with a solid internet connection or they'll make you start over (learned that the hard way). The system is absolutely terrible at communicating what you need to do, but once you get through the verification, everything goes back to normal. Hang in there!

Just to add - make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even after getting this determination. Sometimes people think they don't need to continue with their regular claim process but you absolutely do!

I've been through this exact situation and completely understand the confusion! "Not adversely affected" is definitely good news - it means whatever they reviewed about your claim didn't hurt your eligibility or benefits. I had the same panic when I first saw that language on my determination letter. Keep doing what you're doing with your weekly certifications and you should be all set. The Department of Labor really needs to use clearer language in these letters!