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THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO CUT PEOPLE OFF! They don't want you to know your rights or how to extend benefits. 26 weeks isn't enough when there's no decent jobs out there. I've been fighting with NYS Department of Labor for months about my case.
Here's what you need to know about the 26-week limit: It's calculated from when you first started receiving benefits, not from when you filed. So if there was any delay in processing your claim, those weeks still count toward your 26. Also, if you work part-time while collecting, those weeks still count toward your limit even if you're getting reduced benefits. Make sure you understand exactly where you are in your benefit year.
The WHOLE SYSTEM is broken!! I've been waiting 3 months for them to process my appeal and every time I call they say there's nothing they can do. Meanwhile I'm behind on rent because they disqualified me for something that wasn't even my fault. NYS Department of Labor is the worst run agency in the state.
For your specific error with weekly claim certification, you might need to speak to someone in the adjudication unit rather than general customer service. They handle issues with claim processing and can usually see what's causing the error in your account. When you do get through, ask to be transferred to adjudication if the first person can't help.
Also keep in mind unemployment compensation is taxable income so you might want to have taxes withheld or you'll owe at the end of the year. The NYS Department of Labor gives you the option when you set up your claim.
The NYS Department of Labor system is so confusing even for basic claims, I can't imagine they care about academic unemployment categories. When I was on unemployment last year they just wanted to know if I was fired or laid off, not whether it was cyclical or structural lol
To clarify the definitions for your assignment: Frictional unemployment includes people voluntarily between jobs or new graduates searching for first jobs. Structural occurs when worker skills don't match available jobs due to technology changes or industry shifts. Cyclical happens during economic downturns when overall demand for labor decreases. Seasonal unemployment follows predictable patterns in industries like agriculture, tourism, or retail during holidays.
LilMama23
Don't forget you'll also need to register for work search activities once your claim is approved. The job search requirements are pretty strict now - you have to document your search activities and be ready to show proof if they ask. Start looking for jobs right away even while your claim is processing.
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Dmitri Volkov
Just wanted to say good luck with everything! Being laid off is stressful enough without having to navigate the unemployment system. You've got this though - the folks here gave you solid advice.
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