Can new moms qualify for NY unemployment after giving birth? Can't reach anyone by phone

Unfortunately, in New York, you generally can't collect unemployment if you leave work to have a baby since you're not considered 'ready, willing and able' to work, which is a requirement for UI benefits. However, you might qualify for NY Paid Family Leave or Temporary Disability Insurance instead. Those programs specifically cover maternity situations. Did your employer mention these options?

I went thru this last yr!! You CAN get unemployment BUT only after you're medically cleared to return to work AND if your employer doesnt have a position for you. If they held your job and you choose not to go back, then no UI. But if they replaced you or eliminated your position while you were out, then YES you can get benefits. But good luck getting anyone on the phone to confirm this for your situation!

To clarify what others have said: New York unemployment benefits are available to people who are ready to work immediately and lost their job through no fault of their own. If your employer replaced you while you were on maternity leave, you might qualify, but you'll need to be cleared by your doctor as able to work. Here's what to do: 1. Get a note from your doctor saying you're cleared to work 2. File your unemployment claim online ASAP at labor.ny.gov 3. In your claim, clearly explain that your position was filled while you were on maternity leave 4. Be prepared to show you're actively looking for work Regarding the phone issues - that's unfortunately very common. The NY DOL phone system is overwhelmed most days.

I had my baby in January and faced the EXACT same problem!!! Trying to call the unemployment office is literally impossible. I spent weeks trying. Eventually I broke down and used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an agent in under 10 minutes. Cost some money but saved me weeks of frustration. There's a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE. The agent I talked to said I qualified for benefits because my job hired someone else while I was out, even though it was maternity leave. Got my first payment 2 weeks later!

Theres alot of WRONG info here! You CANNOT get unemployment just for having a baby, period. But like someone else said, if your job replaced you while you were on leave, THAT can qualify you. Its not about the baby, its about losing your job. Make sure you understand the difference when you apply or theyll deny you fast!!!!!

Just wanted to say congrats on your baby! The unemployment system is so confusing and stressful especially when you have a newborn. Hope you get it sorted out soon!

I'm curious - did your employer give you anything in writing about replacing you? My sister went through something similar in NY and the unemployment office wanted documentation that her position was actually eliminated/replaced. If you have any emails or texts about this save them!!

when i was on unemployment in 2025 i tried calling for 2 weeks straight and couldnt get thru then i saw someone mention that claimyr thing and it actually worked! the unemployment lady i talked to was super helpful once i actually got to her. sometimes you just gotta pay to skip the line i guess lol

Just to follow up - after you speak with NYSDOL, whether through regular channels or using a service, make sure to document everything from that conversation. Get the agent's ID number if possible, and take detailed notes about what they tell you. This will help if there are any discrepancies later. Also, be prepared to provide documentation showing: 1. Your medical clearance to return to work 2. Evidence your position was permanently filled 3. That you're actively seeking work Keep a detailed log of all your job search activities as NYSDOL may request this information during your benefit period.