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The whole system is so confusing! I've been collecting for 8 weeks now and I still don't really understand how they calculate everything. My neighbor got benefits for longer than 26 weeks but that was during COVID when there were extensions. Now I hear there's nothing extra available.
Just to clarify - the 26 weeks is the standard maximum, but your actual duration might be less depending on your earnings history. NYS Department of Labor looks at your base period wages to determine both your weekly benefit amount and total duration. If you didn't work much in your base period, you might not qualify for the full 26 weeks.
The NYS unemployment system is SO confusing about this stuff. I've been unemployed since December and still don't understand half the rules. Why can't they just make it simple - if you work, you lose benefits. Instead we have all these calculations and formulas that nobody explains clearly.
I went through this same confusion last year! The base period thing is really important to understand. For me, I filed in March 2024 so my base period was October 2022 through September 2023. My most recent job wasn't even counted because it was too recent. Make sure you have all your W-2s and pay stubs ready when you file because NYS Department of Labor will verify everything anyway.
ugh the whole unemployment system is such a nightmare!! i applied 2 months ago and STILL haven't gotten my first payment because they keep asking for more documentation. make sure you have EVERYTHING ready before you even start the application or you'll be waiting forever like me
Rebecca Johnston
just make sure u file asap!! i waited like 2 weeks thinking i needed to find other work first and that was a mistake because u cant get retroactive benefits for those weeks
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Nathan Dell
The whole unemployment system is such a bureaucratic nightmare. Took me 6 weeks to get my first payment last year because they kept asking for more documentation even though I provided everything they initially requested. NYS Department of Labor needs a complete overhaul.
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Jessica Nolan
•While the system definitely has room for improvement, most straightforward layoff cases process within 2-3 weeks. The key is being thorough and accurate when filing your initial claim.
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