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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.
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.
Update: Finally got through today! Apparently they flagged my account for a "verification interview" but the notice went to my old address (even though I updated it in the system). Because I missed the interview, they automatically forfeited my benefits. The agent scheduled a new interview for next week and said my benefits should be reinstated if everything checks out. Thanks everyone for the support and advice - this forum has been a lifesaver during this stressful time!
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!
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.
NeonNova
Just remember you still need to meet all the job search requirements even while your claim is being processed. Don't skip that part thinking you have time to figure it out later.
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Andre Moreau
One important thing to add - when you do start filing your weekly claims, make sure you're being completely honest about any work or income you had during each week. Even if you worked just one day or made a small amount of money, you need to report it. NYS Department of Labor will cross-reference with employers and the IRS, and failing to report income can result in overpayment penalties and potential fraud charges. It's better to report everything upfront and let them calculate your reduced benefit amount than to risk complications later.
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