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The NYS Department of Labor online system is a nightmare. Half the time it crashes right when you're submitting and you have to start over. Been dealing with this bureaucratic mess for weeks now. They make it deliberately complicated so people give up and don't file claims.
Few more tips for filling out the online application: 1) Use your legal name exactly as it appears on your Social Security card, 2) For wages, enter gross amount not net, 3) If you worked out of state during the base period you'll need to file an interstate claim, 4) Save screenshots of each page in case something goes wrong. The confirmation number at the end is super important - write it down immediately.
I had trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor when I had questions about my claim history. Spent hours on hold. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to an actual agent in like 10 minutes. 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.
I had issues reaching someone at NYS Department of Labor about this exact question last year. Kept getting disconnected when trying to verify our account status before filing federal taxes. Finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to an actual agent - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling.
Actually, that's not bad advice. Filing the claim is free and if you don't qualify under the standard base period, the system will automatically check your alternate base period. Plus you'll get a determination letter that explains exactly why you do or don't qualify, which is more specific than trying to calculate it yourself.
Everett Tutum
I had a nightmare trying to get through to NYS Department of Labor when my claim got stuck in adjudication because they thought I quit but I was actually laid off. Couldn't reach anyone for weeks until someone told me about claimyr.com - it's a service that helps you get through to actual agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Honestly saved me so much stress because I was about to lose my apartment.
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Sunny Wang
•Never heard of that before but might be worth trying if you really can't get through the regular way
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Hugh Intensity
Another big one people don't realize is if you're not a US citizen or don't have work authorization you can't get unemployment benefits. Also if you're in school full time that can disqualify you because you're not considered available for work. The rules are pretty strict about being able and available.
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Tobias Lancaster
•What about part time school? I was thinking about taking some classes while I look for work.
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