Do you have to look for a job while on unemployment in NYS?

Yes, you absolutely have to conduct job search activities while receiving unemployment benefits in New York. The standard requirement is 3 work search activities per week that you claim benefits. This includes things like applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or job interviews. You need to keep detailed records in your work search log including employer names, dates, contact information, and the type of activity. The NYS Department of Labor can request this documentation at any time and you could lose benefits if you can't provide it.

been on unemployment twice and yes the job search thing is mandatory but honestly they rarely check unless you get audited or something goes wrong with your claim

I'm so stressed about this job search requirement! I've been applying to places but I don't know if I'm doing it right. Do online applications count? What if nobody calls me back - does that still count as a work search activity? I'm worried I'm not documenting everything correctly and they'll cut off my benefits.

I had issues getting through to NYS Department of Labor to clarify some work search questions and spent weeks calling with no luck. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me connected to an agent. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI. The agent was able to explain exactly what activities count and how to document them properly. Worth checking out if you're having trouble reaching them directly.

The whole job search requirement is such bureaucratic nonsense. Like we're not already motivated to find work! They make you jump through hoops just to get benefits you paid into.

Just want to say good luck with your job search! The restaurant industry has been tough but things are picking up in my area.

@Sergio Neal - You can find the work search log form on the NYS Department of Labor website under the unemployment section, or they sometimes mail it with your initial paperwork. But honestly, you can just create your own simple log as long as it includes the required info: date, employer name, contact method, position applied for, and result. I keep mine in a simple notebook and it's worked fine for over a year of claims. The key is being consistent and detailed - don't wait until the last minute to catch up on your documentation like I did at first!