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Ugh the NYS Department of Labor forms are so confusing! I spent forever trying to figure out what they wanted for this question too. I ended up calling but couldn't get through to anyone - typical. If you're having trouble reaching them by phone, I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual NYS Department of Labor agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Way easier than sitting on hold for hours.
How much does something like that cost? I'm already stressed about money while waiting for my claim to process.
Just be honest on the form. If you have any kind of supplemental insurance through work that covers accidents, sickness, or unemployment, report it. If you don't have any of these coverages (most people don't), then mark no. The workers' comp situation you mentioned is totally separate and wouldn't go in this section.
When you file your claim, make sure to explain exactly what happened - that it was an economic layoff due to the employer's inability to meet new wage requirements. Don't just put 'laid off' - be specific. Also keep any documentation from your employer about the layoff if they gave you anything in writing. NYS Department of Labor sometimes asks for additional information during the adjudication process.
The whole minimum wage situation is creating so many problems for small businesses. My friend owns a coffee shop and she's been struggling ever since the increases started. But you're right that workers shouldn't be penalized for economic decisions they had no control over. The unemployment system exists for exactly these situations.
I had such a hard time getting through to NYS Department of Labor when I needed help with my account login issues. If you run into problems with the website or need to talk to someone, I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me connected to a real person at NYS Department of Labor. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me hours of trying to call myself.
just file anyway!! they cant deny you for trying and worst case they say no but at least you tried. i got fired for being late too many times but still got my benefits because it wasnt like i was stealing or anything serious
The NYS Department of Labor system is so messed up though. Even if you qualify they'll find some reason to delay your claim for weeks. I've been waiting 3 weeks just for them to make a decision on my case and nobody can tell me what's taking so long. But yeah definitely file because you never know.
Sean Flanagan
If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to update your address or verify your claim status, you might want to check out claimyr.com - they help people get through to agents when the phone lines are jammed. There's a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. I used it last year when I couldn't reach anyone about my adjudication issue.
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Anastasia Popova
•Thanks for the suggestion! The phone lines have been impossible lately. I'll check that out if I run into issues.
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Nia Wilson
Just to add - when you file your weekly claims, make sure your new address is correct because they might mail you important documents. I missed an appointment notice once because my address wasn't updated and almost lost my benefits.
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