Can I use severance pay to qualify for NY unemployment after severance period ends?

Thanks but are you 100% sure? My severance packet says something about it not being considered wages, but I thought you needed wages to qualify for unemployment?

Thank you! That makes sense. So I'll file as soon as my severance period is over, and my claim will be based on my regular wages from the past year, not the severance money. That's a huge relief.

Unfortunately, in NY you typically can't receive unemployment benefits during weeks you receive severance pay, even if the severance amount is less than your potential benefit. The severance period must end before you can collect benefits. However, you should apply as soon as your last day of work arrives - don't wait until severance ends to submit your initial application.

I had the same frustrating experience trying to reach someone about my claim. After days of trying, I used a service called Claimyr that got me through to an agent in about 20 minutes. They helped me understand exactly how my severance affected my eligibility. Worth checking out their demo at https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE if you're still having issues. The website is claimyr.com - it saved me days of redial frustration.

I'm still confused. So does severance count as "days worked" or not?? The form asks about days worked and I don't know if severance days count as days worked!

For certification purposes, days you receive severance are considered "days worked" even though you're not physically working. This is why you can't receive benefits during your severance period. However, these severance payments don't count as "wages" for determining if you qualify for a claim in the first place. They're treated differently depending on which part of the process you're looking at.

This can happen with longer severance periods. If your brother's severance extends 6+ months, by the time he can file, his base period (which looks back at recent quarters) might indeed no longer include some higher-earning quarters. It's unfortunate but accurate. If he has specific questions about his situation, he should contact NYSDOL directly.

Please be careful with this advice. Filing while receiving severance without properly reporting it is considered fraud by NYSDOL. Your friend may have received benefits incorrectly and could face repayment demands with penalties later. The rules on severance have been consistent - it's considered remuneration that delays benefit eligibility. Always accurately report severance when filing.

This is incredibly helpful, thank you! I'm in a very similar situation - just got laid off from a marketing firm after 2.5 years and have 6 weeks of severance coming. Your point about starting the job search during severance is something I hadn't considered but makes total sense. Did you find that employers were understanding about your severance timeline when you were interviewing? I'm worried about explaining the gap or having to turn down offers that come too early. Also, when you say "check your online account" - is there a specific portal or app that NYSDOL uses for updates?

Great questions! For the online account, yes - NYSDOL has a portal called "NY.gov ID" where you can track your claim status, view correspondence, and upload documents. You'll create this account when you file your initial claim. Definitely check it regularly during severance because they often send requests for additional info through there. As for job searching during severance - most employers were actually pretty understanding when I explained I was in a severance period. I was upfront about my timeline (when I'd be available to start) and many were willing to wait, especially for the right candidate. Some even preferred it because they knew I wasn't desperate and was taking time to find the right fit. The key is being transparent about your situation from the start. If an offer comes too early, you can often negotiate a later start date. Good luck with your search!

Great questions! For the online portal, you'll use the NY.gov unemployment services website - just search "NYSDOL online services" and create an account. You can check claim status, upload documents, and see any requests for additional info there. Regarding employers and timing - I was upfront about my severance timeline in interviews. Most employers actually appreciated the transparency, and some even saw it as a plus that I had time to properly transition without financial pressure. If you get an offer during severance, you can usually negotiate a start date that works for both parties. Many companies are flexible, especially in today's market where they understand layoffs happen. One tip: when networking or applying, mention you're "transitioning" rather than "unemployed" - it frames the severance period more positively. Good luck with your search!

Great questions! For the NYSDOL portal, you'll use ny.gov/services/apply-unemployment - once you file your initial claim, you'll get login credentials to check your account status and submit weekly certifications later. Regarding interviews during severance, I was upfront about my timeline and most employers were actually pretty understanding. I'd say something like "I'm currently in a severance period until [date] but actively exploring opportunities for when I'm available to start." A few companies were willing to wait, and others asked me to reconnect closer to my availability date. The key is being transparent - trying to hide it usually backfires. Plus, interviewing during severance actually helped me feel more confident since there wasn't as much financial pressure. You might be surprised how many hiring managers have been through similar situations themselves!

Great questions! For the NYSDOL portal, you'll use ny.gov/services/apply-unemployment - once you file your initial claim you get login credentials to track everything online. Regarding job interviews during severance - I was upfront about my timeline and most employers were actually fine with it. I'd say something like "I'm currently in a severance period through [date] but actively interviewing for my next opportunity." Many companies have longer hiring processes anyway, so the timing often worked out naturally. A few times I had to decline offers that wanted me to start immediately, but honestly those felt more desperate/red flag-ish anyway. The key is being transparent - don't try to hide the severance situation. Most hiring managers understand layoffs happen and appreciate honesty about availability. Plus, having that severance cushion actually put me in a better negotiating position since I wasn't desperate to accept the first offer. Good luck with your search!

@adcf98be27d3 can definitely help answer the portal question, but I can share some insight on the employer side. Most employers are pretty understanding about severance situations, especially in today's market where layoffs are common. I'd recommend being upfront about your timeline - you can say something like "I'm currently in a severance period through [date] and would be available to start after that." Many companies actually prefer candidates who have some financial cushion because it shows you're not desperate and can make thoughtful decisions. As for the NYSDOL portal, you'll create an account on labor.ny.gov when you file your initial claim. That's where you'll see updates, submit weekly certifications later, and get any requests for additional info. The mobile experience isn't great, so I'd recommend using a computer when possible.

Great questions! For the online portal, you'll use the NY.gov unemployment services website - just search "NYS unemployment login" and you'll find it. Once you file your initial claim, you'll get login credentials to check status and respond to any requests. Regarding employers and severance timing - I was upfront about my situation during interviews and most were actually quite understanding. Many hiring managers have been through layoffs themselves! I found it helpful to frame it positively: "I'm currently in a severance period which gives me flexibility to start on [date], and I'm using this time to be thorough in finding the right opportunity." A few companies were willing to wait, and one actually preferred a later start date anyway. The key is being honest early in the process so there are no surprises. You might be pleasantly surprised how accommodating potential employers can be, especially in today's job market where they understand layoffs happen. Good luck with your search - 6 weeks gives you a decent runway to be strategic about your next move!

@adcf98be27d3 can probably give you more specifics, but I can share what I know about the online system. NYSDOL uses their ny.gov unemployment portal where you create an account when you file your initial claim. You log in there to certify weekly, check payment status, and see any messages from the department. As for the job search during severance - most employers are pretty understanding about notice periods and start dates, especially if you're upfront about having a severance package that ends on a specific date. Many people actually prefer candidates who aren't in a desperate rush and can give proper notice. Just be honest in interviews about your timeline - it shows you're professional and honor your commitments.

@adcf98be27d3 can probably give you better specifics, but I can answer about the online portal - it's ny.gov/services/apply-unemployment. You create an account when you file your initial claim and that's where you'll see all updates, certification requirements, and any requests for additional info. As for job searching during severance, most employers are pretty understanding if you explain you're in a severance period but actively looking. Just be upfront about your availability date. Some companies are even willing to wait if you're a good fit, especially in specialized roles. The key is being honest about your timeline from the start of the interview process.

@adcf98be27d3 Great questions! For the NYSDOL online portal, you'll use ny.gov/services/apply-unemployment - once you file your initial claim, you'll get login credentials to check status and upload documents. Regarding interviews during severance - most employers in my experience were actually pretty understanding. I was upfront about my timeline and framed it as "I'm available to start on [date after severance ends]" rather than focusing on the severance itself. A few companies were willing to wait, especially for roles they really wanted to fill with the right person. The key is being honest about your availability from the start so there are no surprises. Some employers even saw it as a positive - like I was being responsible by honoring my commitments. Just make sure any offer you accept has a start date after your severance period ends to avoid complications with NYSDOL!

@adcf98be27d3 Great question about the employer timing issue! In my experience, most employers were actually pretty understanding when I explained I was in a severance period but actively looking. I was upfront about my availability date and a few companies were willing to wait or even preferred it because they had longer hiring timelines anyway. For the NYSDOL online portal, you'll use the NY.gov unemployment services website - once you file your initial claim you'll get login credentials and can check for messages, upload documents, and see your claim status. I actually found a couple of great opportunities during my severance period and was able to negotiate start dates that worked for everyone. The key is being transparent about your situation from the start rather than trying to hide it.

@adcf98be27d3 can probably give you better details, but I can share what I know about the NYSDOL online system. You'll use the NY.gov labor portal - it's called "Unemployment Insurance Online Services" and you log in with your NY.gov ID. Once you file your initial claim, you get access to a dashboard where you can see claim status, any pending issues, and messages from NYSDOL. As for the job search timing - most employers are pretty understanding about notice periods, especially if you explain you're currently in a severance transition. You can always be upfront that you're available to start after a specific date. Some companies might even prefer that timeline since it gives them time to prepare onboarding. The key is being honest about your availability from the start rather than surprising them later. One tip: even if you get an offer during severance, you can negotiate a start date that works for everyone. Don't feel pressured to turn down good opportunities just because of timing!

@adcf98be27d3 can probably give you more details, but I can share what I know about the NYSDOL online system. You access everything through the NY.gov unemployment portal - once you file your initial claim, you'll get login credentials to check your claim status, view determinations, and upload documents if needed. As for job searching during severance, most employers I talked to were pretty understanding when I explained the situation upfront. I just said something like "I'm currently in a severance period through [date] but actively interviewing for my next role." A few even appreciated the heads up since it gave them time to plan their hiring timeline. The key is being transparent - it's actually pretty common in today's job market!

@adcf98be27d3 might have more specific insights, but I can share what I learned about the online portal. NYSDOL uses the ny.gov unemployment services website - once you file your initial claim, you'll get login credentials to access your account dashboard. You can check claim status, view payment history, and upload documents there. As for the job search timing, I'd recommend being upfront with potential employers about your severance end date. Most understand layoff situations, and good companies will often be willing to wait a few weeks for the right candidate, especially if you're honest about the timeline from the start. You could also use the severance period to do informational interviews and network - that way you're building relationships without the pressure of immediate start dates.

@adcf98be27d3 can definitely answer the portal question better, but I wanted to jump in about the employer/interview timing issue. I went through something similar last year with 8 weeks severance. Most employers were actually pretty understanding when I explained I had a severance period ending on a specific date. I framed it as "I'm available to start on [date] when my transition period with my previous employer concludes" rather than getting into all the unemployment details. A few companies were even willing to do a delayed start date if they really wanted to hire me. The key was being upfront about my availability timeline during the initial phone screens so nobody's time got wasted. And honestly, having that severance cushion made me way less desperate in interviews, which probably helped me negotiate better offers!

Great questions! For the online account, you'll use the NY.gov unemployment portal - just search "NY unemployment login" and it'll take you to the official site. You create an account when you file your initial claim. As for the job search timing, I was pretty upfront with potential employers about my severance situation. Most were actually understanding, especially in tech where severance packages are common. I framed it as "I'm available to start on [date]" rather than focusing on the severance aspect. A few companies were willing to wait, and others said to reach out closer to my availability date. The key is being honest about your timeline from the start - it saves everyone time and shows professionalism. Also, use the severance period to really prep for interviews and update your portfolio/resume. You'll be in a much stronger position when you can actually start!

Great questions! For the online account, you'll use NY.gov - just search for "unemployment services" and create your account there. You can track your claim status, submit documents, and see any pending issues that need attention. As for employers during interviews, I was upfront about my timeline and most were actually pretty understanding. Many companies expect some lead time anyway, especially for professional roles. I just explained that I was available to start after [specific date] due to severance obligations. A few companies were willing to wait, and one even appreciated that I was being transparent and professional about honoring my commitments. The key is framing it positively - you're using this time productively to find the right opportunity rather than rushing into anything. Some employers actually see it as a green flag that you're financially stable enough to be selective. Just make sure you're genuinely ready to start working when you say you are!

Great questions! For the online account, you'll use the NY.gov unemployment services portal - just search "NYS unemployment login" and you'll find it. You create an account when you file your initial claim and can check status updates there. Regarding employers and severance timing - most were actually pretty understanding when I explained the situation during interviews. I found it helped to be upfront about it: "I'm currently in a severance period through [date] but am actively interviewing for my next role." Many employers appreciated the honesty and some were even willing to work with the timing. A few companies were willing to wait or do a delayed start date, especially if they really wanted to hire me. The key is being professional about it and positioning it as "I'm being responsible about my current commitments while actively seeking my next opportunity." It's more common than you might think, so don't stress too much about it. Good luck with your search!

Great questions! For the NYSDOL portal, you'll use the official NY.gov unemployment services website - just search for "NYS Department of Labor unemployment login" and create your account when you file your initial claim. You can check claim status, upload documents, and see any messages from NYSDOL there. As for employers during interviews, I was upfront about my timeline and most were actually pretty understanding. I'd say something like "I'm currently in a severance period that ends on [date], so I'd be available to start after that." Some companies were willing to wait, others weren't, but honesty worked better than trying to hide it. A few even saw it as a positive that I wasn't desperate to jump into anything immediately. The key is positioning it professionally - you're using the time to find the right fit, not just waiting around. Good luck with your search!

Great questions! For the NYSDOL portal, you'll use ny.gov/services/apply-unemployment - once you file your initial claim, you get login credentials to track everything online. Regarding interviews during severance - I was upfront about my timeline and most employers were totally fine with it. I'd say something like "I have a severance period ending on [date] and would be available to start immediately after." Some companies actually preferred it because they could plan ahead, and it showed I was being responsible about my commitments. A few even moved their start dates to align perfectly with when my severance ended. The key is being transparent early in the process. I had one offer that came a bit early, but when I explained the situation, they were happy to adjust the start date. Most companies understand layoffs happen and severance is normal - it's not like you're unemployed by choice. Plus, having that severance buffer actually made me a more attractive candidate because I wasn't desperate and could be selective about the right fit. Just make sure you're genuinely job searching and not just going through the motions, since you'll need to report your search activities once benefits start!

@adcf98be27d3 can definitely answer the portal question better, but I can share my experience with the employer situation! Most employers were actually pretty understanding when I explained I was on severance - it's becoming more common and they get that people are still technically "employed" during that period. I was upfront in interviews about when I'd be available to start, and it actually worked in my favor a few times because it gave them time to complete their hiring process. For the NYSDOL portal, you'll create an account on their website (ny.gov/services/apply-unemployment) when you file your initial claim. That's where you'll see updates, submit weekly certifications later, and upload any requested documents. The interface isn't the most user-friendly but it does work!

@adcf98be27d3 can definitely help answer this better, but I can share what I know! For the NYSDOL portal, you'll use the NY.gov website - there's a "Labor" section where you can access your unemployment account once you file. You'll get login credentials after submitting your initial application. As for job searching during severance, I'd suggest being upfront about your timeline in initial conversations. Most employers understand severance periods, and many are willing to work with your availability date if you're a strong candidate. You might even find that some companies prefer candidates who have a specific start date rather than needing someone immediately. Just make sure you're honest about when you'd be available to start - don't commit to dates that would overlap with your severance period since that could complicate things with NYSDOL later.

@adcf98be27d3 can probably give you more details, but I can share what I know! For the NYSDOL portal, you'll use the NY.gov unemployment services website - they'll give you login credentials when you file your initial claim. You can check claim status, upload documents, and see any messages from them there. As for the job search timing, I was in a similar spot last year. Most employers I talked to were actually pretty understanding about severance timelines, especially if you're upfront about it. I found it helpful to mention during initial phone screens that I had a specific start date availability due to severance obligations. Some companies were willing to wait, others weren't, but being honest saved everyone time. You might also consider freelance or contract work during the severance period if your agreement allows it - just make sure to report any earnings to NYSDOL accurately!

@adcf98be27d3 can probably give you better details, but I can share what I know! Most employers are pretty understanding about severance situations - it's becoming more common with all the layoffs lately. When I was interviewing during my severance period last year, I was upfront about my timeline and most recruiters appreciated the honesty. Some even preferred it because they knew exactly when I'd be available to start. For the NYSDOL portal, you'll use the NY.gov unemployment services website. Once you file your initial claim, you'll get login credentials to access your account online. That's where you'll see claim status updates, any document requests, and eventually do your weekly certifications once benefits kick in. The mobile site works pretty well too if you prefer checking on your phone. One tip: if you do get an offer during severance, you can always negotiate a start date that works with your timeline. Many companies are flexible, especially if you explain the situation professionally.

Great questions! For the online portal, you'll use the NY.gov unemployment services website - just search for "NYS Department of Labor unemployment" and you can create your account there. They'll send you a login after you file your initial claim. As for employers and timing, I was upfront about my severance situation during interviews. Most were actually pretty understanding - they knew I was serious about finding work since I was actively interviewing even while receiving severance. A few companies were willing to work with my timeline, and one even said they preferred candidates who weren't desperate and could start on a planned date rather than immediately. My advice: be honest about your situation but frame it positively. Say something like "I'm currently in a severance period through [date] but am actively interviewing to line up my next opportunity." It shows you're planning ahead rather than just coasting. Good luck with your search!

Great questions! For the online account, you'll use the NY.gov unemployment portal - just search "NYS unemployment login" and create your account when you file your initial claim. They'll send updates there and sometimes request documents through that system. As for the job search timing, I was upfront with potential employers about my severance timeline and most were actually pretty understanding. Some even preferred it because they knew I had time to properly transition and wasn't in a desperate rush. I'd suggest applying to positions that have longer hiring timelines anyway - corporate roles often take 4-6 weeks from application to start date, which could work perfectly with your 6-week severance window. Just be honest in interviews about your availability date and frame it as giving you time to make a thoughtful career decision rather than rushing into the first offer.

@adcf98be27d3 can probably give you better insight on the employer response part, but I can answer about the online portal! NYSDOL uses their main website portal at labor.ny.gov - you create an account when you file your initial claim and then log in there to check status, upload documents, and do your weekly certifications later. They'll also send you a debit card in the mail once you're approved. As for job searching during severance - I actually found it helpful because I wasn't desperate and could be more selective. Just be honest about your timeline if asked. Most employers understand layoffs happen and appreciate transparency about availability dates.

@adcf98be27d3 can definitely answer the portal question better, but I can share my experience with the interview timing issue! Most employers were actually pretty understanding when I explained I was in a severance period - it's pretty common in corporate layoffs. I was upfront about my availability date and a few companies were willing to wait or do a delayed start. The key is being honest early in the process. For immediate opportunities, I just politely explained my situation and asked if they could consider a start date after my severance ended. You'd be surprised how flexible some companies can be, especially if they really want you. The worst case is they say no, but at least you're getting interview practice during the severance period!

Great questions! For the online account, yes - NYSDOL has a portal called "NY.gov ID" where you can track your claim status, submit weekly certifications, and view any messages or document requests. You'll get login info when you file your initial claim. As for job searching during severance, most employers were actually pretty understanding when I explained I had a specific start date availability due to severance terms. I was upfront about it early in the process and framed it as "I'm available to start on [date] and am using this time to find the right opportunity." Some companies were even impressed that I was being proactive about my search. The key is being honest about your timeline from the beginning. If you get an offer before your severance ends, you can always discuss start dates - many companies are willing to wait a few weeks for the right candidate. Just make sure you understand any implications for your severance if you start work early (some companies will stop payments if you begin new employment). Good luck with your search!

Hey @Liam O'Sullivan! Great questions. For the NYSDOL online portal, you'll use their NY.gov website - once you file your initial claim you'll get login credentials to access your personal dashboard where all updates and requests for info will show up. Regarding the job search timing - I was upfront with potential employers about my severance situation and most were actually pretty understanding. Some even saw it as a positive because it meant I wasn't desperate and could be selective. I had one offer come in during week 7 of my severance that I was able to negotiate a start date for after my severance ended, which worked out perfectly. The key is being honest about your timeline from the start - it weeds out employers who can't work with your situation and helps you find ones who can. Plus, having those conversations and building relationships during severance meant I hit the ground running once I could actually start working again!

Great question about the timeline! Most employers were actually pretty understanding when I explained I was in a severance period - it's becoming more common and shows you're being responsible by not double-dipping. I was upfront about my start date availability and a couple companies were even willing to wait. For the NYSDOL portal, you'll use ny.gov/services/apply-unemployment - once you file your initial claim, you'll get login credentials to check status and submit weekly certifications later. The system sends email updates too, but I found logging in directly more reliable. One tip: if you do get job offers during severance, talk to NYSDOL about how to handle it properly - they have specific rules about reporting job offers and start dates that can affect your benefit timeline.

@adcf98be27d3 can probably give you better details, but I can answer the portal question! NYSDOL uses their online system at labor.ny.gov - you'll create an account when you file your initial claim. You can log in there to check claim status, upload documents, and see any messages from the department. As for the job search timing, I'm curious about this too since I'll be in the same boat soon. I imagine most employers would understand a reasonable severance period, especially if you're transparent about your start date availability. It might actually work in your favor since you can be more selective and not seem desperate to accept the first offer that comes along.