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I was in a similar situation last year when I got let go from a temp job. I had trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor on the phone to ask about my eligibility - their lines are always busy. I ended up using this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you actually reach a live agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that explains how it works. It was way easier than trying to call myself for hours. The agent was able to look at my work history and explain exactly what I qualified for.
Just file anyway if you lose your job. The worst they can say is no, and you might be surprised. I didn't think I qualified when I got laid off because I'd switched jobs a lot, but it turned out my wages from different employers all counted together. The NYS Department of Labor website has a benefits calculator you can try first too.
Just be careful because if you mess this up you could lose your SSI permanently. The system is designed to trip people up and once they find an excuse to cut you off they will. I've seen people lose everything trying to work while on disability.
One thing they don't always tell you upfront is that you need to do job search activities to keep getting benefits. You have to log into the NYS Department of Labor system every week and record your job search efforts. I think it's at least 3 job contacts per week but check the current requirements. Also if you're having trouble getting through to the NYS Department of Labor by phone (which happens a lot), there's a service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that helps people reach agents. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling when I had questions about my claim status.
honestly the whole system is such a pain... took me forever to get my first payment and then they put my claim under adjudication for like a month for no reason. but yeah file online ASAP and make sure all your info is exactly right or they'll delay everything
Make sure you understand the difference between quitting and constructive discharge! If you were forced to quit due to unsafe conditions, that's constructive discharge and you should be eligible for benefits. Bring any witnesses if possible - former coworkers who can testify about the conditions. Also check if your state has specific laws about workplace safety that your employer violated.
Sophia Long
Ugh dealing with NYS Department of Labor is such a nightmare. I've been trying to get through to someone for WEEKS about my claim that's stuck in adjudication and their phone lines are always busy. The whole system is broken.
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Sophia Long
•Really? Is it legit or some kind of scam? I'm desperate at this point.
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Angelica Smith
•It's legit - they basically handle the calling and waiting for you then connect you to an actual NYS Department of Labor agent. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.
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Logan Greenburg
One thing they don't tell you upfront is that unemployment benefits are taxable income. You can choose to have taxes withheld or you'll owe at tax time. Also if you work part-time while collecting, your benefits get reduced but you might still qualify for partial payments.
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Rachel Clark
•Good to know about the taxes! So I could potentially work a few hours somewhere and still get some unemployment money?
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Logan Greenburg
•Yes, but you have to report all earnings when you file your weekly claim. NYS Department of Labor has specific formulas for calculating partial benefits.
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