


Ask the community...
I was in a similar situation last year and had trouble reaching anyone at NYS Department of Labor to ask questions about my application. The phone lines are always busy and the callback system doesn't work half the time. I ended up using this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me hours of trying to call myself and I got my questions answered the same day.
One thing to keep in mind is that even though you can file immediately, it might take a few weeks for your claim to be processed and approved. NYS Department of Labor has to verify your employment history and sometimes that takes time. Don't panic if you don't see payments right away. Also make sure you start doing your weekly claims as soon as you're able to - that's how you actually request the money each week.
honestly the whole system is a mess right now, unemployment numbers don't even reflect reality because so many people gave up looking or are working gig jobs that don't get counted properly
Back to your original question - if you're looking at this strategically, focus on sectors that are actively hiring rather than areas with high unemployment. Healthcare, tech, and skilled trades are showing consistent job growth in NY. The unemployment rate tells you about job losses, but job creation data tells you about opportunities.
honestly just apply. i thought i wouldnt qualify either but i did and got like $280 a week for 6 months. saved my butt while job hunting. the application asks all the right questions and theyll tell you if you qualify or not. no harm in trying
THE SYSTEM IS BROKEN! I quit for good cause too and they STILL denied me initially. Had to appeal and it took 3 months to get it overturned. Document EVERYTHING because they will try to deny you first.
Paolo Longo
Just make sure you file your claim as soon as possible after you're terminated! You can't backdate unemployment benefits in New York, so every week you wait is money you're losing. Even if you think your employer might contest it, file anyway - you can always appeal if they deny your initial claim.
0 coins
Amina Bah
ugh this sounds exactly like what happened to my friend at her old job!! some managers are just awful and try to push people out instead of firing them outright. at least with unemployment you have some protection. definitely keep documenting everything like everyone said!
0 coins