Can you get unemployment if you are disabled - NYS Department of Labor eligibility question

Yes, you can absolutely qualify for unemployment benefits with a disability! The key requirement is that you must be able and available for work, which it sounds like you are. NYS Department of Labor doesn't discriminate based on disability status. When you file your weekly claims, you'll need to certify that you're able and available for work and actively seeking employment. Your disability doesn't disqualify you as long as you can perform some type of work with or without reasonable accommodations.

I went through this same situation two years ago. The important thing is how you answer the weekly claim questions. When they ask if you're able and available for work, you need to answer yes if you truly are. During your job search, focus on positions you can actually perform. NYS Department of Labor may ask for documentation about your work capacity if there are any questions, but having a disability itself isn't grounds for denial.

Just make sure you understand the job search requirements. You still need to apply for work and keep a log of your job search activities. Focus on jobs you can actually do with your accommodations. Remote work is great for this - there are tons of customer service and other remote positions that might be perfect for your situation.

Wait I'm confused... if someone has a disability that prevents them from doing certain jobs, how can they say they're available for work? Doesn't that make them not available?

I had trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor when I had questions about this exact issue. Kept getting disconnected or put on hold forever. Eventually found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me actually reach a real person at the unemployment office. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Made it so much easier to get my questions answered directly from an agent instead of guessing.

good luck with everything! the system can be frustrating but you have every right to benefits if you meet the requirements

I'm in a similar situation - have a chronic condition that limits some of my abilities but I can definitely still work with the right accommodations. From what I've researched, the ADA actually protects people with disabilities in the unemployment system too. The key is being honest about what you CAN do rather than focusing on what you can't. When you file your claims, emphasize your availability for remote work, flexible positions, etc. Document your job search efforts focusing on realistic opportunities. Your disability doesn't define your work capacity - your skills and willingness to work do!

I work in HR and deal with unemployment claims regularly. One thing that might help is knowing that NYS Department of Labor has specific guidance on this - they follow federal ADA guidelines which means they can't discriminate based on disability status. When you file, be prepared to clearly articulate what types of work you can perform and what accommodations you might need. Keep records of your job search activities and focus on positions that align with your capabilities. Remote customer service roles are actually in high demand right now, so your background plus remote work flexibility could work in your favor. Don't let anyone discourage you from applying - you have the same right to benefits as anyone else who meets the eligibility requirements!