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The issue with unemployment isn't just NYS Department of Labor - it's that the whole concept puts people in limbo between jobs. You're dealing with bureaucracy when you're already stressed about money and finding work. Plus they make you jump through hoops to prove you're looking for jobs when most of us are already doing that anyway. It's like they assume everyone is trying to cheat the system.
From a practical standpoint, the best approach is to stay on top of your weekly certifications, keep detailed job search records, and respond immediately to any requests for information. I know it seems overwhelming but the system does work if you follow all the procedures exactly. Most delays happen when people miss deadlines or don't provide complete documentation.
The system is so messed up honestly. They make it nearly impossible to prove good cause unless you have a lawyer or something. I quit because my boss was sexually harassing me and they STILL denied my claim initially. Had to appeal and it took 3 months total to get approved. Save yourself the headache and try to get fired instead if possible.
yeah my cousin quit her job last year and got unemployment no problem, just told them she had to quit for personal reasons or something. not sure why everyone's making it sound so complicated lol
If you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor by phone (which is super common), I used a service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual agent. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. It saved me so much frustration when I had questions about my claim status.
Make sure you have your bank account info ready too for direct deposit setup. Also heads up - after you file your initial claim you'll need to do job search activities and report them when you file your weekly claims. NYS Department of Labor requires you to look for work unless you're on standby status.
Job search requirements are 3 work search activities per week unless you're in a union with a hiring hall or have return-to-work date within 10 weeks. Activities include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or taking training courses. Keep detailed records of everything you do.
William Rivera
ugh the whole system is so confusing! I was underemployed for like 3 months last year and could never figure out if I was doing the weekly claims right. kept getting different answers every time I called NYS Department of Labor
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Kayla Jacobson
•Getting through to NYS Department of Labor by phone is always a nightmare. If you're still having trouble with claims, I heard about this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps people get connected to actual agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Might be worth checking out if you need to talk to someone about your specific situation.
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Grace Lee
I think there's also something about being able and available for work that's different between the two situations. Like if you're underemployed, you still have to prove you're looking for additional work or a better job, not just settling for the reduced hours.
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Evelyn Xu
•Exactly right! The job search requirement applies to both unemployment and underemployment situations. You have to show you're actively seeking work that would restore your earnings to the level they were before.
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