Wait I thought there was a rule about not working more than 4 days? My friend said that but maybe she was wrong?

Just to add to what others have said - you can find the official earnings rules in the NYS Department of Labor handbook section 590. It clearly states that you can work while collecting UI as long as your total earnings don't exceed your weekly benefit rate. There's also no limit on the number of days you can work per week, just the earnings threshold. I keep a copy of the relevant pages saved on my phone because I do gig work and need to reference it often when calculating my weekly claims.

The whole system is backwards if you ask me. Why should small businesses get penalized for economic downturns that force layoffs? No wonder employers try to contest legitimate claims.

Just to clarify for anyone still confused - in NY, employers pay unemployment insurance taxes based on their "experience rating" which goes up if they have more claims filed against them. So while your boss isn't cutting you a personal check each week, your claim does contribute to potentially higher taxes for his business in the future. That's probably why he's being dramatic about it, but it's still not fair for him to make you feel guilty about collecting benefits you're entitled to after being laid off.

UGH the whole system is so frustrating!!! My claim has been awaiting processing for FOUR WEEKS now and every time I call they just say 'wait for a letter' but no letter ever comes. NYS Department of Labor is completely broken.

The "awaiting processing" status is totally normal for new claims, so don't panic! NYS Department of Labor has to verify your employment history, wages, and reason for separation before they can approve your claim. Since you were laid off from your warehouse job, that should be straightforward - layoffs are typically approved faster than other separation reasons. Make sure you have your employer's information handy in case they need to contact them for verification. The process usually takes 2-3 weeks, but can be longer during busy periods. Keep checking your account regularly for any updates or requests for additional information.

The weekly filing thing is such a pain but you really can't miss it. I set a phone reminder every Sunday to make sure I don't forget. Also make sure you're reporting any work you did that week correctly - even if it's just a few hours of freelance work, you need to report it or you could get an overpayment notice later.

Just wanted to add that you should also keep track of your job search activities when you file weekly. NYS requires you to make at least 3 job search contacts per week and you might get audited later where you have to provide proof. I keep a simple spreadsheet with company names, dates, and how I contacted them (online application, phone call, etc.). It's saved me from headaches when they requested documentation during my benefit year.

Any update on your situation? Were you able to reach someone and get an explanation? For others reading this thread in the future, it's worth noting that NYSDOL now has specific requirements about reporting even the smallest amount of work or income during claim weeks. Missing even a few hours of part-time work can trigger an automatic forfeiture. The rules changed in late 2024 and they're being enforced more strictly in 2025.

So glad you got through and found out what happened! The address issue is incredibly frustrating - I've seen this happen to several people where they update their address online but somehow the system doesn't sync properly for mailed notices. It's like they're using two different databases or something. At least you have a clear path forward now with the rescheduled interview. Make sure to confirm your current address with the agent during the interview so this doesn't happen again. Wishing you the best of luck next week!