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The real consequence is how the system treats you like a criminal for needing help. Having to prove every week that you're actually looking for work, dealing with adjudication delays when there's some minor issue with your claim, getting threatened with overpayment notices... it's dehumanizing. And then they wonder why people get discouraged.
I understand the frustration with the system, but the job search requirements exist for a reason. The key is understanding what NYS Department of Labor actually requires - 3 work search activities per week, and they can include more than just job applications. Networking events, career fairs, even informational interviews count toward your requirement.
If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor by phone to ask questions about your eligibility, I found this service called Claimyr that actually gets you connected to a real agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. I was stuck trying to reach someone for days until I used their service and got through in like 20 minutes. Really helped me understand my claim status and what I needed to do next.
interesting, never heard of that before. is it legit or just another way to take advantage of unemployed people?
Same boat as you last year! Unemployment insurance benefit basically replaces part of your lost income while you search for work. Think of it as temporary financial assistance that you earned through working. The key things to remember: file immediately, be honest about your job search, and keep detailed records of where you apply. NYS Department of Labor will send you information about job search requirements once your claim is processed.
The NYS Department of Labor unemployment system is so messed up honestly. They make you jump through hoops to get money you already earned and paid into. And don't even get me started on their job search requirements - you have to apply to 3 jobs every week and keep detailed logs or they'll cut you off. It's like they want to make it as difficult as possible.
Just want to add that if you do get fired and they claim it was for misconduct, you have the right to appeal their decision. The NYS Department of Labor will schedule a hearing where you can present your side of the story. Don't just accept a disqualification if you think it's unfair - appeal it within 30 days of getting the determination letter.
The system is completely broken. I've been waiting 5 weeks and when I finally got through to someone they told me my employer contested my claim but nobody bothered to tell me! You have to be your own advocate because NYS Department of Labor won't keep you informed of anything.
Check your employer information in the system to see if there are any flags or notes. For a business closure, NYS Department of Labor should be able to verify that independently through state business records, which might actually speed up your claim once they do that verification. Keep filing your weekly claims even while it's under review - you can get backpay for those weeks once approved.
Mei Lin
THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS A MESS! They make us jump through hoops every week and then can't even pay us on time. I've been waiting since Monday for my payment and getting different answers every time I call. This is people's RENT money we're talking about!
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Liam Fitzgerald
Same boat here, certified Sunday and still waiting. At least yours shows payment processed - mine just says 'claim under review' which is making me really nervous.
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Carmen Lopez
•If it says 'claim under review' that's different from a normal processing delay. You should check if there are any pending issues in your account that need to be resolved.
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