Can I reapply for NY unemployment with only 2 days worked this year - denied due to medical lifting restrictions

Unfortunately, to qualify for NY unemployment benefits in 2025, you need to have worked and earned enough wages during your base period (the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before filing). With only 2 days of work in the past 18 months, you won't meet the minimum earnings requirement. SSI might be an option if you have a qualifying disability, but as you mentioned, it's a lengthy process - often taking 3-5 months for initial decisions, and many people get denied their first application. Have you considered vocational rehabilitation services? They can help find employment that accommodates your medical restrictions.

Hey did u try filing anyway? sometimes the system lets ppl through who are like edge cases... i got denied last yr but my friend with almost same situation got approved?? the whole system is weird and inconsistent!!!

I was in a really similar situation last year with my back injury. Couldn't qualify for regular unemployment and was totally stuck. I tried calling NY unemployment for weeks hoping to find some exception or special program - impossible to get through on the phone. Then someone told me about this service called Claimyr that gets you through to an agent fast. Checked out their demo video (https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE) and tried it. Got through to someone in less than an hour! The agent told me about a special program for workers with medical restrictions that I qualified for. Might be worth checking out their site at claimyr.com - saved me weeks of stress.

Apply for SSI now even while looking at other options!!!!! The wait is INSANE so better start now. My cousin waited almost 2 YEARS before getting approved!!!! They deny almost everyone the first time too so be ready to appeal!!!!!

have u tryed doordash or uber? that's what I did when I couldnt get unemployment and couldnt lift heavy stuff. not great money but better than nothing for now

There are a few options I'd recommend looking into: 1. ACCES-VR (as someone mentioned) - they specialize in helping people with medical restrictions find suitable employment 2. Apply for SSI now, as it does take a long time, but gather thorough medical documentation about your lifting restrictions 3. Look into NY's Disability Employment Initiative - they sometimes have programs for people who fall between traditional unemployment and disability 4. Check if you qualify for temporary assistance through OTDA while pursuing these other options Regarding unemployment specifically, with only 2 days worked in your base period, you won't qualify for regular benefits. However, if you speak with a knowledgeable agent (which can be difficult to reach), they might be able to direct you to appropriate programs for your specific situation. The standard call center representatives often aren't trained on these specialized programs.

Just a quick update - I used Claimyr.com last year when I was in a similar spot, and surprisingly the agent I reached was super helpful. They explained that I might qualify for partial benefits based on my previous work history combined with my medical condition. Definitely worth the call to have your specific situation evaluated. The unemployment system has so many exceptions and special programs that the website doesn't clearly explain.

I want to clarify something important here - if you get denied for unemployment, make sure you request a determination review/appeal within 30 days. Even with only 2 days worked recently, they might consider your previous work history if it falls within an alternative base period. The system doesn't always correctly identify all possible base periods during initial automated processing. An appeal gives you the chance to have a human review your specific circumstances. Document your medical restrictions thoroughly, as this could also potentially qualify you for other programs if unemployment is denied.

honestly i think its super unfair that we even have to jump through all these hoops... like ur literally unable to do heavy lifting for medical reasons but the system treats u like ur just being lazy??? the whole thing is rigged against ppl with health issues who want to work but have limitations!!

One more important point: While pursuing SSI, consider speaking with a disability attorney. Many offer free initial consultations and only get paid if you win your case (usually taking a percentage of your backpay). They dramatically increase approval rates, especially for appeals. For immediate needs, check if your local Department of Social Services offers emergency assistance programs - these can sometimes provide temporary help while you're sorting out longer-term solutions.