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The system is designed to make it as hard as possible to get help when you need it most. I went through this same runaround when my benefits ended and it took MONTHS to get a straight answer about whether I could refile. By then I was already behind on everything.
I know it feels overwhelming but honestly the job search requirement isn't that bad once you get into a rhythm. It can be applications, contacting employers directly, networking events, even some online job search activities count. The point is showing you're making a genuine effort to find work.
Pro tip: if you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor on the phone (and you probably will), there's a service called Claimyr that can help you reach an actual agent. I used them when my claim got stuck and couldn't get through myself. Check out claimyr.com - they even have a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me weeks of frustration.
The whole system is so unnecessarily complicated! Like why do we need federal AND state taxes for unemployment? Just make it simple for crying out loud. No wonder people get confused about what affects what.
This reminds me of when my cousin worked at a store that kept her on just to stand around during slow seasons. She called it 'fake work' but hey, she got partial benefits for months while looking for something better. The disguised unemployment thing is more about economic theory - in practice, if you're getting paid for hours, report those hours. NYS Department of Labor has seen it all.
Harper Thompson
Just make sure you show up on time and dress professionally even if it's by phone. I almost missed mine because I thought it was the next day. Also they record everything so don't ramble or get emotional even if the employer's lawyer says stuff that makes you mad.
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Carter Holmes
•Wait, there might be a lawyer there? I thought it would just be me and the judge.
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Sophia Long
•Your employer can have representation but many don't bother for appeal hearings. Don't worry about it - just focus on presenting your facts clearly.
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Caleb Stark
omg yes this!! i had to do an appeal too and it was SO stressful but i won! the main thing is dont let them make you feel bad about quitting. if your boss was really harassing you then you had good cause period. i wish i had saved more evidence though so definitely try to get those HR records if you can
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