Make sure you apply for the exemption BEFORE you miss any work search requirements. If you've already missed some weeks, you might need to appeal any disqualifications first. The documentation requirements are pretty strict - vague doctor's notes won't cut it. They need specific statements about your limitations and expected duration.

I went through this exact situation about 8 months ago when I had to care for my mom after her surgery. The good news is that caring for an elderly parent definitely qualifies as immediate family for the exemption. I had to provide her medical records showing she needed assistance and a statement from her doctor about the level of care required. The initial exemption was for 8 weeks but I was able to extend it for another 4 weeks with updated documentation. The key is being proactive - don't wait until you've already missed work search requirements. Contact your local career center as soon as possible and be prepared with all your documentation. They were actually pretty understanding once I explained the situation properly.

The NYS Department of Labor system is so confusing! I've been trying to figure out my own eligibility for weeks and every time I call I get different information. Some rep told me I needed to work for 6 months minimum but then another one said it was about quarterly earnings. Why can't they just give straight answers??

I'm in a similar boat - dealing with a toxic work environment and considering my options. From what I'm reading here, it sounds like the key is documenting everything if you're thinking about quitting for good cause. Keep records of schedule changes, any harassment, unsafe conditions, etc. That way if you do decide to quit, you'll have evidence to support your claim that it was for good cause. The NYS DOL will need that documentation during their investigation. Also definitely try to get through to speak with someone official before making any decisions - sounds like Claimyr might be worth checking out if the regular phone lines aren't working.

I got disqualified for 'misconduct' even though all I did was show up 15 minutes late a few times. The NYS Department of Labor system is so broken, they'll find any excuse to deny claims. Make sure you appeal if they try to disqualify you!

For the hostile workplace situation, you'll want to gather as much documentation as possible - emails, text messages, witness statements, any HR complaints you filed, performance reviews that suddenly changed, etc. The key is showing a pattern of behavior that made continuing work unreasonable. NY does recognize "constructive dismissal" where conditions become so bad you're essentially forced to quit. Also keep in mind that you have to show you tried to resolve the situation first (like reporting to HR) before quitting, unless the situation was so severe that wasn't possible.

wait so if i started working in january this year would i qualify now? im so confused about these quarters

I went through something similar last year. The base period calculation is definitely confusing - I recommend checking your wage statement on the NYS Department of Labor website to see exactly what quarters and earnings they're counting. You can log into your NY.gov account and view your wage and benefit statement to see if you meet the minimum requirements. If you're close but not quite there, definitely ask about the alternative base period like Sebastián mentioned. Also, if you had any other jobs during that time period, even short-term ones, those wages might count toward your total too.

Just want to add that you should NEVER share your UI number with anyone except official NYS Department of Labor representatives. There are scammers out there who try to get this information. Always verify you're on the official my.ny.gov website or speaking with real NYS Department of Labor staff before giving out any claim details.

Great advice from everyone here! Just to add one more tip for finding your UI number - if you're having trouble locating it in your online account, it's also printed on any correspondence you receive from NYS Department of Labor, including your monetary determination letter and any notices about your claim. I always keep a screenshot of mine saved on my phone since you need it so frequently when dealing with unemployment stuff. Also seconding what Noah said about keeping it secure - treat it like you would any other important account number.