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Just want to say hang in there - being thrust into unemployment is scary but you'll figure it out. I was laid off last year and the anxiety was the worst part honestly. The actual process isn't as complicated as it seems at first.
The system is such garbage though. They make it so confusing ON PURPOSE so people give up and don't claim benefits. I had to file THREE TIMES because their website kept glitching and losing my information. And don't even get me started on the job search requirements - they want you to apply to jobs that don't even exist!!
Just to clarify for anyone reading this - you should have received a 1099-G form from NYS Department of Labor showing the total unemployment compensation you received in 2024. This form is what you use to report the income on your tax return. If you had taxes withheld, that will also be shown on the 1099-G. The form should be available online through your my.ny.gov account if you didn't receive it by mail.
Wait I'm confused - if you quit can you still get unemployment? I thought you had to be fired or laid off??
I had trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor when I tried to file after waiting too long. Their phone lines are always busy and the website kept timing out. If you run into issues reaching them, I used this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to an actual agent - claimyr.com. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Saved me hours of frustration.
Reginald Blackwell
ugh the whole unemployment system is so confusing though. like do i have to report every single job i apply for? what if i forget to log something in my job search? will that disqualify me forever?? sometimes i think it's not worth the stress
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Peyton Clarke
•You need to keep a job search log with at least 3 work search activities per week. Missing entries can delay payments but won't disqualify you forever. Just be honest and consistent with your reporting.
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Sophia Gabriel
Filed for UI benefits last year after my startup folded and honestly it was the best decision. Gave me breathing room to be selective about my next job instead of taking the first desperate offer. No negative consequences whatsoever.
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