


Ask the community...
I was in the same situation last year trying to figure out my benefit duration. Had such a hard time getting through to anyone at NYS Department of Labor to ask questions - their phone lines are always jammed. Eventually found this service called Claimyr that helped me get connected to an actual agent who explained everything clearly. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Made dealing with the whole process so much easier.
The 26 week thing is such a joke honestly. Used to be longer in other states before they cut everything back. And don't even get me started on the job search requirements - you have to prove you're looking for work even when there aren't any decent jobs available. The whole system is designed to push people off benefits as fast as possible.
THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS RIGGED AGAINST WORKERS!! They'll find any excuse to deny your claim and side with the employer. I got fired for ONE mistake after 5 years of perfect attendance and they still denied me. Had to go through the whole appeal process just to get what I deserved.
Make sure you keep records of everything - your termination letter, any documentation about the attendance issues, witness statements if you have them. The more evidence you can provide during adjudication, the better your chances. Also start your job search immediately because you'll need to show you're actively looking for work.
Don't stress too much about the work search thing. I know people who just apply to random jobs they're not qualified for just to meet the quota. The system is broken anyway.
This system is so messed up! 26 weeks isn't enough time to find a decent job anymore. I'm in the same boat and it's really scary not knowing how I'm going to pay rent. The NYS Department of Labor needs to extend benefits like other states do.
If you're having trouble reaching someone at NYS Department of Labor to confirm your options, I used 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 calling and getting hung up on.
Abigail Patel
Make sure your bankruptcy attorney understands unemployment benefits! Some lawyers don't deal with this situation often. The UI payments should be listed on Schedule I (current income) and you may need to update your filing if your benefits end before the case closes.
0 coins
Daniel White
UGH the whole system is so complicated... like you're already stressed about money and then they want every detail about every penny you get. But yeah definitely report the unemployment or you'll have bigger problems later
0 coins