Denied NY unemployment as 1099 self-employed after getting COVID - any options?

Unfortunately, traditional NY unemployment insurance doesn't cover self-employed/1099 workers under normal circumstances. You were likely denied in September because of your employment classification, not because of your health status. You might want to look into these alternatives: 1. NY Paid Family Leave might cover COVID illness in some situations 2. Check if you qualify for NY State Disability Insurance 3. Some COVID relief programs might still be available through NY state (though most federal ones have ended) Have you applied for any of these other programs?

i got covid last month and i'm also 1099, couldn't get unemployment either. system is rigged against contractors tbh

As someone who's been through this exact situation, I can tell you that you need to focus on applying for NY State Disability Benefits (NYS DB) rather than unemployment. Self-employed people CAN qualify for disability if they've opted into the program and paid the premiums. Did you ever opt into the NYS disability program when you started your self-employment? It's not automatic for 1099 workers. If you did, file a DB-450 form immediately. If you didn't opt in previously, unfortunately you won't be eligible now that you're already sick.

Have you tried actually CALLING the unemployment office to ask about your specific situation? Sometimes there are exceptions or special programs they don't advertise clearly on the website. I spent WEEKS trying to figure this out online before I finally got through to someone who explained my options. They might be able to tell you about other programs you qualify for even if traditional unemployment isn't available. But good luck getting through on the phone... I had to call like 50 times before I got a human!!!

Hate to be the bearer of bad news but as a 1099 worker your pretty much screwed when it comes to traditional unemployment. I've been self employed for 7 years and you gotta basically save up emergency funds for situations like this because the system doesnt help us independent contractors. During the pandemic they had special programs but those are all GONE now. Its totally unfair that we pay taxes but dont get the same benefits!!

did u try applying for emergency assistance thru HRA? not much but better than nothing

HRA = Human Resources Administration. They handle emergency assistance programs in NY. But honestly, the paperwork is INSANE and they make you jump through a million hoops. I tried getting help when I broke my leg last year and gave up after the third appointment where they kept asking for more documents.

One more thing to consider - check if your county has any COVID relief funds still available. Some NY counties received extended funding and haven't used it all up. You'd need to call your specific county social services department to ask. Also, if you paid into an optional 1099 disability insurance plan through a private insurer (not the state program), you should contact them immediately. Some private disability plans do cover illness including COVID.

For Albany County specifically, contact the Department of Social Services at (518) 447-7300. They've had some targeted emergency assistance programs for situations like yours. As for next steps, I'd recommend: 1. Call the NYS unemployment office for clarification (using the Claimyr service someone mentioned might help you get through faster) 2. Contact Albany DSS about emergency funds 3. Look into whether you can apply for SNAP benefits (food stamps) temporarily while you recover 4. Check if you qualify for an emergency rental assistance program if housing costs are a concern Don't give up - there are resources available, even if traditional unemployment isn't an option!