Can a 16 year old collect unemployment benefits from NYS Department of Labor?

Yes, 16-year-olds can absolutely file for unemployment in New York if they meet the work history requirements. The key factors are: she needs sufficient wage credits in her base period (usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters), she must be able and available for work, and actively seeking employment. Age isn't a disqualifier - it's all about work history and wages earned.

wait really?? i had no idea minors could get unemployment... my 17 year old brother got fired last month and we never even thought to apply

You'll need to file online through the NYS Department of Labor website. The system will automatically calculate her wage credits based on what her employer reported. Since she's a minor, make sure you have all her work documentation ready - pay stubs, W-2 if she has one, and her Social Security card. The job search requirements still apply though - she'll need to be actively looking for work and document her search activities.

I went through this exact thing two years ago when my son got let go from his grocery store job at 16. The biggest hurdle was actually getting through to someone at NYS Department of Labor to ask questions - their phone lines are always jammed. We ended up using this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped us get connected to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Made the whole process so much easier than sitting on hold for hours.

The system is SO broken that even teenagers have to deal with this bureaucratic nightmare. When I was 16 we just found another job, now kids need unemployment benefits?? What is this world coming to

One thing to keep in mind - if she does qualify and receives benefits, she'll still need to file weekly claims and report any earnings from new employment. The good news is the online system is pretty straightforward for weekly claims once you get the initial application processed.

Just wanted to add that even though she's eligible to apply, the benefit amount for a 16-year-old will likely be pretty small since it's based on her earnings history. With 8 months of part-time work, she probably won't get the maximum weekly benefit, but every little bit helps while she's looking for her next job. Also, make sure she keeps detailed records of her job search activities from day one - NYS Department of Labor can ask for documentation at any time during her claim period.

Just a heads up - make sure she applies as soon as possible! There's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits can start, and the sooner she files, the sooner that clock starts ticking. Also, even though she's 16, she'll need to register for work search on the NYS Jobs website as part of the process. The system treats her like any other claimant once she meets the basic eligibility requirements. Good luck to your daughter - losing a job at any age is tough, but at least NY makes benefits available to young workers who've earned them!

Adding to what others have said - when your daughter files, she should also be prepared to provide her Social Security number and have her employment history details ready. NYS Department of Labor will need the exact dates she worked, her employer's information, and the reason for separation (layoff in this case). Since restaurant work often involves tips, make sure she reports all her earnings accurately, including any cash tips that were properly reported to her employer. The system will verify her wages through employer records, so honesty is crucial. Also, she should file her claim on Sunday through Friday - the system is typically down for maintenance on Saturdays. Best of luck to your daughter!

I work as a case manager and see this situation fairly often. Your daughter should definitely apply! One important thing to note is that since she's under 18, she may need to provide additional documentation like a work permit (if she had one) or proof of school enrollment to show she was legally authorized to work. Also, don't be discouraged if the initial online application seems confusing - the system isn't always user-friendly for minors. Keep copies of everything you submit, and if you run into issues, you can always visit a local Department of Labor office for in-person help. They're usually more helpful face-to-face than over the phone. Good luck to your daughter - it's great that she had such a solid work history at just 16!

I just went through this process with my 17-year-old nephew last year when he lost his job at a local retail store. One thing I'd recommend is calling the restaurant where your daughter worked to confirm they properly reported all her wages and tips to the state - sometimes smaller restaurants can be inconsistent with their reporting. Also, when she files online, have her Social Security card, work permit (if she had one), and at least 3 months of recent pay stubs ready before starting the application. The system will ask for specific employer details like the restaurant's federal ID number, so you might want to call them for that info too. The whole process took about 2 weeks from application to first payment for my nephew, and he was able to collect benefits while still attending school full-time. Just make sure she's prepared to actively job hunt and document her search efforts - that's the part they really scrutinize!