Can permanent residents get unemployment benefits through NYS Department of Labor?

Yes, permanent residents are absolutely eligible for unemployment benefits in New York! As long as you're authorized to work in the US and have been paying into the system, your immigration status doesn't disqualify you. You'll need to meet the same work history and wage requirements as everyone else. Make sure you have your Social Security number and work authorization documents ready when you file your claim on the NYS Department of Labor website.

Your coworker is wrong - citizenship is NOT required for UI benefits. I'm a permanent resident too and collected unemployment last year when my company downsized. The only requirements are that you're legally authorized to work and have sufficient work history. Since you worked 18 months and paid taxes, you should definitely qualify. Just file online at labor.ny.gov and answer all questions honestly about your work authorization.

wait really?? i thought you had to be a citizen too. my friend told me that when i got my green card but maybe she was thinking of something else. this is good to know for the future

If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to ask questions about your eligibility, I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me reach an actual agent when I couldn't get through the regular phone lines. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Really helped me get my questions answered about my specific situation without waiting on hold forever.

Just want to add that you might get asked for additional documentation during the adjudication process to verify your work authorization. Don't panic if this happens - it's routine for permanent residents. Keep copies of your green card, I-94 if you have one, and any other work authorization docs handy.

The system is so confusing about who can and can't get benefits. I've heard different things from different people but sounds like as long as you're legal to work you should be fine. Good luck with your claim!

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago - also a permanent resident who got laid off from a manufacturing job. Yes, you are definitely eligible! The key thing is that you've been paying into the unemployment insurance system through your payroll taxes, which gives you the right to collect benefits regardless of citizenship status. When you file your claim online, they'll ask about your work authorization but having a green card fully satisfies that requirement. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise - permanent residents have the same UI rights as citizens as long as you meet the work and wage requirements. File your claim as soon as possible since there can be waiting periods.