Wait so does higher unemployment mean I'm more likely to get denied? I'm worried because I quit my job due to unsafe working conditions and I've heard mixed things about whether that qualifies.

Don't let economic rumors delay your filing! I work in HR and see this confusion all the time. Your unemployment benefits are calculated based on YOUR earnings history over the past 18 months, not current unemployment rates. The key dates that matter are: when you became unemployed (your "benefit year begin date") and when you file your claim. Every week you delay filing is a week of potential benefits you can't get back. The NY system doesn't care if 100 people file or 100,000 people file - your eligibility is determined by your individual work record and separation circumstances. File today at labor.ny.gov!

have u tried the automated system? sometimes u can verify through there

Ugh this is so frustrating! I'm dealing with the exact same thing right now. My ID.me got suspended out of nowhere and I can't get any help. The unemployment office keeps saying they can't do anything about ID.me issues and ID.me support is basically nonexistent. How is this even legal that they can just lock us out of our benefits like this? Really considering trying that claimyr thing Romeo mentioned because I'm desperate at this point 😩

NYS Department of Labor is definitely the right agency but good luck actually getting help from them when you need it!! Their phone system is a nightmare and the website crashes all the time. Been fighting with them over an adjudication issue for weeks now.

@Lilly Curtis - Yes, exactly! "UI" stands for Unemployment Insurance, which is administered by the NYS Department of Labor. You might also see it referred to as "unemployment benefits" or just "unemployment" in casual conversation, but it's all the same program. When you file your claim, you'll be dealing directly with NYS DOL through their online system. Just make sure you have your Social Security number, employment history for the past 18 months, and your most recent employer's information ready when you apply.

Don't stress about it too much. The whole NYS Department of Labor system is confusing at first but once you get your unemployment insurance number assigned, everything becomes clearer. Just make sure to save that number somewhere safe because you'll be using it constantly.

I had the exact same confusion when I first applied! Just to add to what everyone else has said - once you get your unemployment insurance number, write it down and keep it handy. You'll need it every single week when you certify for benefits, and if you ever have to call NYS Department of Labor about anything related to your claim. It's basically your ticket to accessing all your unemployment services. The good news is that once you have it, the weekly certification process becomes pretty straightforward.

Good luck with your hearing! The judge was pretty fair in my case. Just tell the truth and don't let your employer intimidate you with their HR person or lawyer if they bring one.

I just went through this process a few months ago and I totally understand your nervousness! Here's what helped me prepare: 1) Write down a clear timeline of exactly what happened leading up to your separation from work, 2) Gather any emails, texts, or documents that support your version of events, 3) Think about any witnesses who could back up your story (coworkers, supervisors, etc.), and 4) Practice explaining your situation clearly and calmly. During the hearing, the judge will ask you to tell your side first, then your employer gets to respond, and then there might be follow-up questions. Stay calm, stick to the facts, and don't get defensive even if your employer says things that upset you. The judge has heard it all before and they're pretty good at spotting when employers are stretching the truth. You've got this!