I work at a local workforce development center and see this issue all the time. Here's what I usually tell people: First, check if your claim is still in "pending" status - if it is, the claim number might not be generated yet. Second, try logging out of my.ny.gov completely and logging back in, sometimes the system needs a refresh to display everything properly. If you're still stuck, you can also visit your local One-Stop Career Center - they can help you access your account and find your claim number in person. The staff there are really knowledgeable about navigating the NYS DOL system and can walk you through it step by step.

I went through this exact same frustration a few weeks ago! Here's what finally worked for me: First, try the automated phone line at 1-888-209-8124 that Jean Claude mentioned - it's way faster than waiting for a human agent. If that doesn't work, log into my.ny.gov and look under "View Benefit Payment History" like Aisha suggested - that's actually where mine showed up even though I hadn't received payments yet. Also, don't panic about filing your weekly claim - you can absolutely use just your SSN and PIN as Olivia mentioned. The system will find your claim automatically. I was stressing for nothing! The NYS DOL system is confusing but there are multiple ways to get around this issue.

The whole system is a mess honestly. I filed my claim 6 months ago and STILL dealing with issues. They make it sound easy but then your claim gets stuck in adjudication for weeks with no explanation. The NYS Department of Labor is understaffed and overwhelmed. Good luck getting anyone on the phone who actually knows what they're talking about. Half the time they give you different information depending on who you talk to.

I went through this exact same situation last year when I got laid off from my job in Albany. The good news is that NY really did eliminate the waiting week, so you can get benefits starting from your first week of unemployment. I filed my claim on a Wednesday and got my first payment 2.5 weeks later. The most important thing is to file your initial claim ASAP - you can do it online at labor.ny.gov. With your salary of $45k, you should qualify for a decent weekly benefit amount. Just make sure you keep filing your weekly certifications even while waiting for approval, and don't forget to report any part-time work or income. The process isn't as scary as some people make it sound if your case is straightforward like a layoff.

UPDATE: I decided to file and was upfront about my business during the application. Got approved! They did ask for some additional documentation about my business income and I have to report any earnings weekly, but my claim is active. Thanks everyone for the advice.

Congratulations on getting approved! Your success story is really helpful for others in similar situations. I'm curious - how long did the whole application process take from when you first filed to getting your approval? And did they give you any specific guidelines about what level of business income might start affecting your benefits? I'm in a somewhat similar boat with a side business that's not making much, so your experience is really valuable to know about.

I'm dealing with a workplace harassment situation too and your post really resonates with me. From everything I've researched about NYS Department of Labor good cause requirements, you seem to have exactly what they're looking for - documented incidents, proof you tried to resolve it through HR, and evidence of discriminatory treatment. The fact that you're being given impossible deadlines while others get reasonable ones is a clear pattern they'll recognize. I've been hesitant to quit my own toxic situation because I was worried about the financial risk, but reading through all these responses from people who successfully navigated the system gives me hope. It sounds like as long as you organize your evidence well and can show you exhausted internal remedies (which you clearly did with two HR reports), NYS Department of Labor recognizes that no one should have to endure a hostile work environment. Your mental health and wellbeing matter more than staying in a job that's destroying you.

I'm really sorry you're going through this - workplace harassment is so draining and stressful. Based on what you've described, you actually have a very strong case for good cause with NYS Department of Labor. The combination of documented hostile behavior, discriminatory treatment with the impossible deadlines, and your two attempts to resolve it through HR should definitely meet their requirements. I went through something similar about a year ago and was approved for benefits. The adjudicator told me that having evidence of trying to work within the system first (like your HR reports) was crucial, even if HR didn't actually help. Make sure when you file your claim that you emphasize how the harassment escalated despite your efforts to address it properly, and how it became impossible to continue working effectively in that environment. Don't let fear of denial keep you trapped - your documentation sounds solid and your mental health is worth protecting.

Just wanted to add that even if you can't get unemployment, you should look into other programs. There might be small business assistance or other safety net programs available. Don't give up!

Another option to consider is applying for SNAP (food assistance) or other emergency aid programs while you figure out your business situation. These programs don't have the same employment requirements as unemployment insurance. You can apply online through ACCESS HRA or myBenefits.ny.gov. Also, some local food banks and community organizations offer emergency financial assistance for small business owners - it's worth calling 211 to see what resources are available in your area.