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Wait, are you sure you qualify though? If you got fired for cause or quit voluntarily, you might not be eligible. Store closure should be fine since that's no fault of your own, but just double-check the reason on your termination paperwork.
From what I understand, there are different levels of review. Simple claims get auto-approved by the computer system. More complex ones go to claims examiners, and really complicated cases might go to hearing officers. The whole process depends on your specific situation and how busy they are.
honestly the system is so backed up right now anyway, even legitimate claims take forever to process. i've been waiting 6 weeks for my adjudication to finish and can't get through to anyone at NYS Department of Labor. maybe focus on finding better work instead of trying to game the system?
If you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor, try using claimyr.com - they help people get through to agents when the phone lines are jammed. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling when my claim got stuck.
Your best bet is to document everything if your employer is reducing hours or changing working conditions. Keep records of schedule changes, any communication about layoffs, and changes to your job duties. If you do end up separated from your job, you'll need this documentation for your NYS Department of Labor claim. The key is being prepared rather than trying to force a situation.
EMPLOYERS DO THIS ALL THE TIME!! They know most people won't fight it and will just give up. My company tried to say I was fired for attendance when I was actually laid off due to covid downsizing. I had to get a lawyer involved but eventually won my case. Don't let them get away with lying!
Ava Thompson
From what I've seen, the unemployment rates can be misleading though. Like yeah Nassau County might have low unemployment but good luck affording rent there on unemployment benefits! You might want to look at job growth rates too, not just current unemployment numbers.
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CyberSiren
Same boat here! Been filing weekly claims for 4 months and starting to panic about finding something soon. Let me know what you find out about the best areas.
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