I get the theory but the NYS Department of Labor system is so broken that being unemployed feels more like punishment than economic flexibility. My adjudication has been pending for weeks with no explanation.

The key thing to remember is that while some unemployment is structurally necessary for a healthy economy, that doesn't mean individual unemployment isn't challenging. You're still dealing with real financial stress even if your situation serves a broader economic function.

my friend filed unemployment and her old job didn't even contest it. i think most places just accept it unless they think you were fired for misconduct or something. the whole tax thing is calculated yearly anyway so its not like they get a bill the next day

File your claim! That's what the system is for. Your employer has been paying UI taxes all along specifically to cover situations like this. If you were laid off legitimately, there shouldn't be any drama. NYS Department of Labor handles everything and your employer just responds to their inquiry if they want to contest it.

Also think about it this way - if unemployment was literally zero, workers would have ALL the power in negotiations. Companies couldn't fire anyone because they'd never find replacements. That might sound good but it would make businesses super inefficient and unable to adapt to changes in the market.

honestly this whole conversation is making me feel better about being on unemployment right now lol. like maybe I'm serving some important economic function by being unemployed?? still need to figure out why my weekly claim got flagged for review though...

Don't forget about the work search requirements! You need to make at least 3 work search contacts per week and keep detailed records. NYS Department of Labor can audit your job search log at any time. This includes applying for jobs, contacting employers directly, attending job fairs, or networking activities. Missing this requirement can get your benefits stopped.

basically if youre not working full time and its not your fault you probably qualify. just make sure you file your weekly claims on time and report any work you do

ugh the whole unemployment tax situation is such a mess. i remember getting that refund a few years back but it took FOREVER and they never explained anything clearly. typical government BS if you ask me

Just to clarify for everyone - unemployment benefits from NYS Department of Labor are taxable income. You should have received a 1099-G form showing how much you received. The only exception was the 2020 tax year federal exclusion that's already been processed. Make sure you're not missing any important tax deadlines!