Denied NY Unemployment after 1099 work - 36 years W2 history doesn't count?
I got laid off and collected unemployment for 26 weeks. They said I couldn't extend, so I waited a year to reapply. During that time, I found some part-time 1099 work. When I applied again (cuz the work isn't consistent), they denied me saying I didn't have wages in certain quarters. But I've been working - just on a 1099! They're saying that doesn't count. I've worked for over 36 years on W2s before this. How does unemployment even work? Why won't they help me while I'm struggling to find steady work? Am I missing something here?
24 comments
Tom Maxon
I found a way to solve unemployment denial for 1099 income, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G00KH-uuMV4
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Amina Diallo
Ugh, the system is so messed up. I feel for you, OP. The whole W2 vs 1099 thing is a nightmare when it comes to unemployment. Have you tried appealing the decision?
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CosmicCowboy
Thanks for the sympathy. I haven't appealed yet, wasn't sure if it was worth the hassle. You think I should give it a shot?
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Amina Diallo
Definitely appeal! You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain. Sometimes they overturn decisions if you can prove your case.
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Oliver Schulz
100% appeal. The system is designed to discourage ppl, but don't give up! 💪
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Natasha Orlova
Hey, I've been there with the endless phone tag trying to reach someone at unemployment. It was driving me crazy until I found this site called claimyr.com. They have this calling tool that dials through the phone menu, stays on hold, and then connects you when a real person picks up. It costs $20, but it saved me days of frustration. Here's a video about how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE
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Javier Cruz
Sounds too good to be true. How does it actually work? Is it legit?
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Natasha Orlova
It's totally legit! They basically call for you and use some tech to navigate the phone system. When an agent answers, they connect you. Saved me hours of hold time.
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Emma Wilson
Idk man, paying to talk to unemployment? Seems sketchy af 🤔
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Natasha Orlova
I get the skepticism, but it's not a scam. They don't ask for any personal info, just your phone number to call you back. Worth every penny for me, but to each their own 🤷♂️
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Malik Thomas
The 1099 vs W2 issue is a common problem. Unfortunately, 1099 income doesn't usually count towards unemployment eligibility. It's considered self-employment. You might need to look into other options like the Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) if NY offers it.
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NeonNebula
This is why the system is broken af. 36 years of work history and they treat you like this? It's a joke 🤡
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Isabella Costa
Preach! 👏 The whole thing needs an overhaul. It's like they want people to suffer.
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Ravi Malhotra
Have you considered reaching out to your local state representative? Sometimes they can help navigate these issues or put pressure on the unemployment office.
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CosmicCowboy
That's a good idea, I hadn't thought of that. I'll look up who my rep is. Thanks!
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Freya Christensen
Okay, let me break this down for you and others who might be in a similar situation with NY unemployment: 1. Unemployment benefits typically last for 26 weeks in a 52-week period. This is your "benefit year". 2. After your benefit year ends, you can reapply, but you need to have earned enough wages in the "base period" to qualify again. 3. The tricky part: 1099 income (self-employment or independent contractor work) usually doesn't count towards unemployment eligibility. The system is designed for traditional W2 employees. 4. Your previous 36.5 years of W2 work history, unfortunately, doesn't factor into your current eligibility. They only look at recent quarters. 5. What you can do: - Appeal the decision if you think there's been a mistake - Look into the Shared Work Program if you're working reduced hours - Check if you qualify for any other assistance programs - Consider reaching out to your state representative for help 6. To actually talk to someone about your claim, I'd recommend using claimyr.com. It's a service that gets you through to an agent without the endless hold times. Costs a bit, but saves a ton of headache. Remember, the system can be frustrating, but don't give up. Keep pushing and exploring all your options!
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CosmicCowboy
Wow, thank you so much for this detailed breakdown! It helps a lot to understand the process better. I'll definitely look into appealing and check out that claimyr site.
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Omar Farouk
This is super helpful info! Saving this for future reference 💯
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Chloe Davis
Great advice, but it still sucks that the system is set up this way. Like, why doesn't 1099 work count? We're still working and paying taxes!
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AstroAlpha
lol welcome to the wonderful world of gig economy meets outdated unemployment systems 🙃 we're all in the same leaky boat
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Diego Chavez
Have you looked into ny unemployment's rules for mixed earners? Sometimes there are special provisions for people who have both W2 and 1099 income. Might be worth digging into.
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CosmicCowboy
I haven't heard about that. Do you know where I can find more info on mixed earners?
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Diego Chavez
Try checking the NY DOL website or give em a call (use claimyr.com to save time). Mixed earner rules can be complicated, but might help your case.
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Anastasia Smirnova
Oof, struck out with the 1099 work. Been there, done that. The system's rigged against freelancers and gig workers. Time to get creative with your income streams, my friend.
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