Just applied for mine yesterday for the same reason (seasonal retail). The online application asks if you expect to return to the same employer and when. I put my expected return date as March 2025. Pretty sure this helps with the job search stuff but won't know for sure until I get my determination letter.

I went through this exact same process two years ago when I was doing seasonal work at a ski resort. One thing I'd add is to keep documentation from your employer about the expected return date - like an email or letter stating when they plan to bring you back. NYS DOL sometimes requests this as proof that it's truly a temporary layoff. Also, even on standby status, you'll still need to certify weekly that you're able and available to work. The good news is seasonal layoffs are super common and the system is set up to handle them pretty smoothly once you get the initial application done.

Just wanted to share my experience - I was on unemployment from Nov 2022 until March 2023. I had taxes taken out of every payment. When I did my taxes (early filer here), I definitely had to report the unemployment income and pay taxes on it. Your brother might be thinking of the special exemption they had during covid, but that's been gone for a while now.

Just to add some clarity here - I work as a tax preparer and can confirm that unemployment benefits are absolutely taxable for 2023. The COVID-era exemption (which was up to $10,200 for 2020 only) is long gone. NY takes out 10% federal withholding plus state taxes. You can opt out of withholding in your online account, but I STRONGLY advise against it unless you're setting aside money yourself. I've seen too many clients get hit with massive tax bills they couldn't afford. Better to have it taken out now and potentially get a small refund than owe thousands later. Also, if you're having trouble reaching DOL by phone, there are legitimate callback services that can help - just make sure you're using reputable ones.

why tf do we even need this ID.me garbage?? the normal verification system worked fine before. this is just adding unnecessary steps to an already broken system. ny unemployment just making things worse 🤡

Just went through this exact same thing last week! What finally worked for me was using a different device entirely. I kept getting stuck in loops on my laptop, but when I switched to my tablet and used the Chrome browser, everything went smoothly. Also make sure you're not using any VPN or ad blockers - those seemed to mess with the verification process. The whole thing is super frustrating but once you get through it, your payments should start up again within a few days. Hang in there!

yeah this is why i always tell people to have savings. you never know when something like this will happen and the government programs dont really help when you need them most

I went through something similar when I had surgery last year. The key thing is timing - you can't collect unemployment while you're medically unable to work, but once you're cleared and if you get terminated, you can file immediately. Don't wait! I made the mistake of waiting a few extra weeks thinking I needed to be "fully" recovered, but as long as your doctor clears you for some type of work, you meet the "able and available" requirement. Also, keep all your medical documentation organized because NYS Department of Labor will definitely want to see proof of when you became able to work again. The whole process was stressful but it worked out in the end.

I'm in a similar situation - my card was supposedly mailed last Friday and I'm also stressed about rent! From reading everyone's experiences here, it sounds like it's completely random. Some people get it in 3-4 days, others wait weeks. The informed delivery suggestion is smart - just signed up for that too. If it doesn't show by early next week, I'm definitely going to try that Claimyr service that multiple people mentioned. Hang in there, we'll get through this! 🤞

Mine took exactly 8 business days to arrive in Manhattan last month. The key thing is to NOT panic if it doesn't show up by the 7-10 day estimate - NYC mail delivery has been super inconsistent lately. I'd recommend calling the debit card company directly (the number should be on your unemployment account) to confirm it was actually sent and get a tracking number if possible. Also, make sure to check with your building's mailroom or super if you have one - sometimes they hold mail. The waiting is the worst part but most people do eventually get their cards!