Can you collect unemployment while on disability in New York?

This is actually a complex situation that depends on your specific circumstances. Generally, to receive unemployment benefits from NYS Department of Labor, you must be able and available for work. However, if your disability is partial and you can still perform some types of work (like the desk jobs you mentioned), you might still qualify. You need to continue certifying that you're able and available for suitable work that accommodates your restrictions. The key is being honest about your limitations while actively seeking appropriate employment.

had something similar happen to me last year. was on workers comp but still filed my UI claims because i could do office work with my arm in a sling. nysdol approved it but they asked for documentation from my doctor about what kind of work i could do. just be upfront about everything

You need to report all income including disability payments when you file your weekly unemployment claims. NYS Department of Labor will determine if your disability payments affect your benefit amount. The general rule is that you can receive both if you're able to work in some capacity, but the disability income might reduce your unemployment benefits dollar for dollar. I'd recommend calling NYS Department of Labor directly to discuss your specific situation, though getting through can be challenging with their call volume.

Wait I'm confused... if you're on disability doesn't that mean you CAN'T work?? How can you be available for work and on disability at the same time? This doesn't make sense to me.

I think this is really tricky territory and you need to be super careful. The NYS Department of Labor takes able and available requirements seriously. If they find out you're receiving disability benefits and didn't properly report it, you could face an overpayment situation or even fraud charges. Document everything - your doctor's restrictions, your job search efforts for appropriate positions, all income reporting. Better to be overly transparent than risk issues later.

Been there myself with a knee injury while unemployed. Key things: 1) Report the disability income on your weekly claims, 2) Make sure your job search focuses on positions you can actually do with your restrictions, 3) Keep all medical documentation, 4) Be honest when certifying for benefits. NYS Department of Labor processed mine without issues because I was upfront about everything from the start.

This is a great question and you're smart to ask before potentially creating issues. I work in HR and deal with these situations regularly. The key distinction is between being "totally disabled" versus having work restrictions. Since you can perform desk work and light duty, you're not totally disabled from all work. You absolutely must report your disability payments when filing weekly claims - NYS Department of Labor will likely reduce your unemployment benefits by the amount of disability income you receive. Keep detailed records of your job search efforts focusing specifically on positions that accommodate your restrictions (administrative, customer service, data entry, etc.). Your doctor's note about light duty work will be important documentation. Many people successfully navigate this situation, but transparency with NYSDOL from the start is crucial to avoid overpayment issues down the road.