Can you get unemployment if you get social security from NYS Department of Labor?
I'm 63 and currently receiving Social Security retirement benefits. My part-time job just ended due to company downsizing and I'm wondering if I can still file for unemployment benefits through NYS Department of Labor while getting my monthly Social Security check? I was working 25 hours a week making about $800 per month. Does anyone know if there are restrictions or if one affects the other? I really need the extra income to cover my bills.
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CosmicCowboy
Yes, you can receive both Social Security and unemployment benefits in New York! The NYS Department of Labor doesn't count Social Security as disqualifying income for UI benefits. However, you still need to meet all the regular requirements - be able and available for work, actively seeking employment, and meet the earnings requirements from your work history. Since you were working part-time recently, you should definitely apply.
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Paolo Longo
AuthorThat's a relief! Do I need to report my Social Security income when I file my weekly claims or just my work earnings?
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Amina Diallo
wait i thought if you get social security you cant work? this is confusing
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CosmicCowboy
You can work while receiving Social Security, but there are earnings limits depending on your age. Once you reach full retirement age, there's no limit on how much you can earn.
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Oliver Schulz
I went through this exact situation last year. You can definitely get both, but make sure you're honest about being able and available for work during your weekly claims. The job search requirement still applies even if you're collecting Social Security. I had to show I was actively looking for work each week.
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Paolo Longo
AuthorDid you have any issues with the NYS Department of Labor questioning your availability for work because of your age or Social Security status?
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Oliver Schulz
No issues at all. As long as you're genuinely looking for work and available to accept suitable employment, your age doesn't matter. I got approved without any problems.
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Natasha Orlova
This is great info! I'm in a similar boat but having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to ask questions about my specific situation. Their phone lines are always busy and I've been trying for weeks.
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Javier Cruz
I had the same problem reaching them until someone told me about this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com. They help you get through to actual NYS Department of Labor agents by phone. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. I used it last month and finally got to speak with someone who answered all my questions about my claim.
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Natasha Orlova
Thanks! I'll check that out. I really need to talk to someone about my specific earnings situation.
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Emma Wilson
Just make sure you file soon after your job ended. There's usually a waiting period and you don't want to lose out on any weeks of benefits you're entitled to.
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GalaxyGuardian
I'm 58 and was in a similar situation a few months ago - lost my part-time retail job and was worried about how my early Social Security would affect unemployment. Like others mentioned, you can definitely receive both! Just wanted to add that when you file your initial claim, they'll ask about all income sources but Social Security won't disqualify you. The key thing is being honest about your work availability - I made it clear I was looking for part-time work that would work with my schedule and had no problems. Good luck Paolo, and don't wait too long to file!
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