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.

I know everyone says "call DOL" but good luck actually reaching someone lmaooo 💀 I spent 2 weeks trying before I gave up and emailed my state senator's office for help.

I'm going through something similar right now - my base period wages are showing about $15,000 less than what I actually earned! From what I've learned lurking here, the key is getting your employer's quarterly wage reports (form NYS-45) to see exactly what they submitted to the state. You can request these directly from DOL or ask your former employer for copies. If there's a mismatch with your pay stubs, that's your smoking gun for the appeal. Also heard that calling right at 8am on Tuesday/Wednesday gives you the best shot at getting through to someone who can actually help. Don't give up - wage reporting errors are super common and fixable once you get the right person on the phone!

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.

Same boat here! Filed 10 days ago and still showing 'under review' with no benefit amount. Getting really anxious about when I'll actually see some money.

I'm in a similar situation - filed my claim about a week and a half ago and still waiting to see my benefit amount. From what I've gathered reading through everyone's responses, it sounds like the waiting period is pretty normal but still nerve-wracking when you're counting on that income. @Zara, have you tried calling them directly or are you just waiting it out? I'm debating whether it's worth the hassle of trying to get through on the phone or if I should just be patient for the monetary determination letter.

Quick tip: check your payment history on the website. If it says 'released' with todays date, you should see it within 1-3 business days depending on your bank. Direct deposit is usually faster than debit card. Also make sure your banking info is correct on file. If you need to update banking info and cant do it online, use claimyr.com to get through to an agent fast. Hope this helps!

Usually takes 1-2 business days with most banks once it shows "released". I have Capital One and it typically hits my account the next morning around 6am. Just be patient - the money is coming! Also make sure you didn't accidentally change your direct deposit info recently, that can delay things.