Can you get unemployment if you abandon your job - NYS Department of Labor rules?

Job abandonment is generally considered voluntary separation by NYS Department of Labor, which means you typically won't qualify for unemployment benefits. When you don't show up for work without notice, your employer can document it as job abandonment and report it to NYS Department of Labor as you quitting. However, there might be exceptions if you can prove you had good cause for leaving - like unsafe working conditions or harassment. You'd need to file your claim and explain your circumstances during the adjudication process. It's always better to try to quit with proper notice or get terminated instead if possible.

I had a friend who just stopped showing up to her job at a restaurant because the manager was sexually harassing her. She filed for unemployment anyway and actually got approved after going through adjudication. She had to provide documentation and testimony about the harassment though. So it's not automatically disqualifying, but you need to have a really good reason and be able to prove it.

Why don't you try to get yourself fired instead? Like start showing up late or something? Then you might have a better chance at getting unemployment benefits from NYS Department of Labor.

Ugh I'm dealing with something similar at my job. Have you tried calling NYS Department of Labor directly to ask about your specific situation? I've been trying to get through for weeks but the phone lines are always busy. It's so frustrating when you need answers and can't reach anyone!!

honestly the whole unemployment system is rigged against workers anyway. they make it so hard to get benefits even when you deserve them. like why should you have to stay in a toxic job just to maybe get unemployment later?? makes no sense

Have you documented any of the issues you're facing at work? If the manager is creating a hostile work environment, cutting your hours arbitrarily, or there are safety concerns, you might have grounds to argue "constructive dismissal" - where the working conditions are so bad that a reasonable person would feel forced to quit. NYS Department of Labor does recognize this in some cases. I'd suggest keeping records of any incidents, communications about hour cuts, or other problematic behavior before making any decisions. You could also file a complaint with the Department of Labor about working conditions while still employed, which might strengthen your case later if you do need to leave.