Can I get NY unemployment benefits after getting COVID-19 and unable to work?

Yes, you might qualify for NY Temporary Disability Benefits if you're unable to work due to COVID-19. This isn't regular unemployment - it's specifically for when you're temporarily unable to work due to illness. You'll need documentation from your doctor confirming your diagnosis and quarantine period. Apply through your NY.gov account as soon as possible since there can be processing delays. Make sure you have your employer's information and medical documentation ready when you apply.

u dont qualidy for regular unemployment cuz ur not available to work. but NY has COVID sick leave now. i got it last year, its seperate program. Google 'NY covid sick leave' and the website comes up

The others are partially correct, but let me clarify exactly what you need. New York has a COVID-19 Sick Leave program that provides benefits if you're unable to work due to a mandatory or precautionary order of quarantine/isolation due to COVID-19. As of 2025, this program is still active. To qualify: 1. You need documentation from a licensed medical provider stating you tested positive and are unable to work 2. Your employer has to verify you can't work remotely 3. Benefits are based on your employer's size: - Small employers (1-10 employees): You get job protection and can apply for NY Paid Family Leave and disability benefits - Medium employers (11-99 employees): You get 5 paid sick days plus can apply for additional benefits - Large employers (100+ employees): You get up to 14 paid sick days Apply through your NY.gov account under 'COVID-19 Benefits'. You don't need to do the regular unemployment work search requirements.

I got COVID three times since 2023 and the program helped every time. The key is getting that doctor's note ASAP. The system is actually pretty good once you provide all the documentation they ask for. If you have trouble uploading documents through the portal (it can be glitchy), call them directly. Good luck!

GOOD LUCK actually getting through to anyone at NYSDOL!!! I spent THREE WEEKS trying to call about my covid benefits last year and never got a human being. The system is BROKEN!!! I ended up having to go back to work early because I couldn't wait for benefits that never came. The website says one thing but actually getting help is IMPOSSIBLE!!

When I needed to reach someone at NYSDOL about my COVID benefits, I used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to an agent within about 20 minutes instead of waiting for days. They have this system that basically waits on hold for you and calls you when they get a rep on the line. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE It made a huge difference because I was able to verify my COVID documentation and get my claim processed within days instead of weeks. For something time-sensitive like COVID leave, getting through quickly really matters.

One more important thing: make sure to specify you're applying for COVID-19 Sick Leave/Disability Benefits and NOT regular unemployment. They're completely different programs with different requirements. If you apply for the wrong one, you'll be denied and have to start over. The COVID program doesn't require you to be searching for work while you're sick (that would be counterproductive to quarantine!). FYI - Benefits typically start processing within 5-7 business days after all documentation is received. Most people see payments within 2-3 weeks. If your employer has 40 employees, you'll get 5 days paid directly from them, then the state benefits kick in.

My roommate just went thru this whole process in January! Make sure you keep a record of EVERYTHING. Take screenshots of confirmations and write down who you talk to. The system lost her documents twice and she had to resubmit. Also watch out because they might ask for follow-up proof that you're still testing positive if you need benefits beyond the initial period.

Here's a direct link to the application page: https://paidfamilyleave.ny.gov/covid-19-paid-leave-guidance-employers The most common mistake people make is not having all their documentation ready before starting the application. You'll need: 1. Positive COVID test results (screenshot or PDF) 2. Doctor's note confirming inability to work 3. Employer's contact information and EIN number (ask HR) 4. Your personal ID and income information 5. Direct deposit information Having all this ready will speed things up considerably.

also check if ur job gets the 5 days covid sick pay from NY state. my boss didnt tell me i was entitled to it, had to find out myself!!

UPDATE: I want to thank everyone for all the helpful advice! I spoke with HR and they confirmed I'll get 5 paid sick days through the company. I've also started my application for the additional NY COVID benefits with all the documentation everyone suggested. My doctor provided the note right away. I'm feeling a bit better today but still testing positive and following quarantine protocols. Really appreciate all the information - it made this whole process much less stressful!

Glad to hear you're feeling better! Just remember that even after the 5 paid days from your employer, you need to follow up on your state benefits application. They don't automatically kick in - the two systems are separate. And don't return to work until you're fully cleared, even if there's pressure from your job. Your health comes first!