Can I get NYS Department of Labor unemployment for medical reasons - need help understanding eligibility

Unfortunately, you typically can't get regular unemployment benefits if you quit for medical reasons because you wouldn't meet the 'able and available for work' requirement. However, there might be other options depending on your specific situation. If your employer has to let you go due to your medical condition and you can't perform your job duties even with reasonable accommodations, that could potentially qualify you. You should also look into disability benefits or Family Medical Leave Act protections.

There are some exceptions to the general rule. If you can prove that continuing to work would be detrimental to your health and you had no other choice but to leave, you might be able to argue 'good cause' for quitting. You'd need solid medical documentation and you'd probably have to go through an adjudication process with NYS Department of Labor. The key is showing that a reasonable person in your situation would have quit too. You should definitely file a claim and let them make the determination rather than assuming you won't qualify.

I'm dealing with something similar and it's so confusing! I've been trying to call NYS Department of Labor for weeks to get clarification on my situation but can never get through. The automated system just hangs up on me after being on hold forever. How did you guys actually talk to someone who could give you real answers about medical exemptions?

Just want to add that even if you don't qualify for regular unemployment, you should definitely check if you're eligible for disability benefits through the state. Sometimes people don't realize there are multiple safety nets available. Also document EVERYTHING with your employer about your medical condition and any requests for accommodations you've made.

I work in HR and have dealt with several cases like this. One thing to consider is whether your employer offers short-term disability benefits - this might bridge the gap while you figure out your long-term options. Also, make sure to get detailed medical documentation that specifically states how your job duties are incompatible with your condition. If you do end up having to leave, the way you separate from employment matters a lot for your unemployment claim. Sometimes employers will agree to a medical separation rather than making you quit, which can help your case with NYS Department of Labor. Don't give up hope - there are often more options than people realize.

I went through something very similar about 8 months ago with a back injury that made my warehouse job impossible to continue. The process was definitely confusing at first, but here's what I learned: NYS Department of Labor does have provisions for medical separations, but you need to be really strategic about how you approach it. First, don't just quit outright - that almost always leads to a denial. Instead, work with your doctor to get very specific documentation about your limitations and how they conflict with your essential job functions. Then approach your employer about accommodations or medical leave options. If they can't accommodate you and you have to separate, make sure it's documented as a medical separation rather than a voluntary quit. I also recommend filing your unemployment claim as soon as you separate, even if you're not sure you'll qualify - the worst they can do is say no, and you might be surprised. The appeals process exists for a reason, and many people who get initially denied end up getting approved after providing additional medical evidence. Don't let the stress overwhelm you - there are people who can help guide you through this process.