Can you collect unemployment if you are terminated from your job in New York?

Yes, you can usually collect unemployment even if you were terminated, as long as it wasn't for misconduct. Being late twice in a month typically wouldn't qualify as misconduct under NYS Department of Labor rules. You should definitely file your claim as soon as possible. The key is whether your termination was for 'just cause' - which means serious workplace violations, not minor performance issues or attendance problems.

i got fired from my last job too and still got unemployment so ur probably fine. just file online at my.ny.gov and see what happens

The distinction is important here - termination for cause vs. termination for misconduct. Most employers will try to claim misconduct to avoid paying higher unemployment taxes, but NYS Department of Labor looks at the actual facts. Being occasionally late usually doesn't rise to the level of misconduct unless you were repeatedly warned and continued the behavior willfully. File your claim immediately and if they deny it, you can appeal the decision.

Getting through to NYS Department of Labor by phone is nearly impossible right now if you need to check on your claim status or ask questions. I was calling for weeks trying to get answers about my adjudication. Finally found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that actually got me connected to a real person at the unemployment office. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me so much frustration trying to get through their busy phone lines.

The unemployment system in this state is such a joke. They make you jump through hoops and then half the time the website doesn't even work properly. Good luck getting anyone on the phone to explain anything!

I went through something similar last year when I was let go from my customer service job. The most important thing is to file your claim right away - don't wait! You can do it online at my.ny.gov/services/unemployment-insurance. When you file, just be honest about what your employer told you was the reason for termination. Being late a couple times usually won't disqualify you from benefits unless there was a clear pattern of willful misconduct. Keep any documentation you have (employee handbook, write-ups, etc.) in case you need it for the review process. The waiting period can be stressful but try to stay positive - most people who are terminated for minor issues like occasional tardiness do get approved for unemployment benefits in NY.

I'm sorry to hear about your situation - being terminated unexpectedly is really stressful! The good news is that you should definitely be eligible for unemployment benefits in New York. Being 10 minutes late twice in a month is not considered "misconduct" under NYS Department of Labor standards, especially after 3 years of employment. Misconduct has to be willful and substantial - like theft, violence, or repeatedly violating clear workplace policies after warnings. File your claim immediately at my.ny.gov - you can apply online 24/7. Don't delay because there's a waiting period and benefits are calculated from when you file, not when you were terminated. During the application, just state the reason your employer gave you (attendance issues). If they try to fight your claim, NYS DOL will investigate and you'll likely win since occasional tardiness rarely qualifies as disqualifying misconduct. Also keep in mind that even if your claim gets initially denied, you have the right to appeal and present your case. Many people win on appeal even when initially denied. Stay strong and don't let this setback discourage you - you've got rights as a worker in New York!