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The whole system is ridiculous - they make it so confusing that people don't even know they should apply! Then they penalize you for not knowing their arbitrary rules. I waited 3 weeks because I thought I had to have a certain number of hours worked first.
If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor about backdating issues, I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me actually reach an agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me hours of trying to call myself.
I had trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor when I had questions about my base period eligibility. Kept getting busy signals and long hold times. A friend recommended this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you get through to actual NYS Department of Labor agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Helped me talk to someone who could explain my specific situation within a day instead of waiting weeks.
The unemployment system is SO messed up. They make it impossible to get answers and then act like they're doing you a favor when they finally approve your claim. I was fired for 'performance issues' which was basically my manager not liking me and I STILL had to fight for months to get my benefits.
Just to add - make sure you file your weekly claims even while your initial claim is under adjudication. You can't get retroactive payments for weeks you didn't certify, even if you're later approved. The process can take 4-6 weeks so don't wait.
ugh the job search requirement is so annoying! you have to apply to 3 jobs per week and keep records of everything
TechNinja
This is exactly why the unemployment system is broken! $184 a week in 2025? That's insulting. Meanwhile rent keeps going up and groceries cost a fortune. The whole system needs to be overhauled but good luck getting politicians to actually fix anything. At least you got approved though - some people wait months in adjudication just to get denied.
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Keisha Thompson
•yeah the system sucks but complaining doesn't help pay bills. OP needs practical solutions not political rants
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Paolo Bianchi
I remember when this happened to me a few years ago. The unemployment benefits barely covered anything. I ended up having to take a part-time job while collecting benefits, but you have to be careful about reporting those earnings properly or they'll reduce your weekly benefit amount. Also look into local food banks and community assistance programs. It's not ideal but it helps bridge the gap.
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