Does filing for unemployment affect you long-term with NYS Department of Labor?

Filing for unemployment benefits is a legal right and generally won't affect you negatively. Employers cannot access your unemployment history unless you specifically disclose it, and it doesn't impact your credit score. The main thing to know is that unemployment benefits are taxable income, so you'll receive a 1099-G form for tax purposes. NYS Department of Labor keeps records for administrative purposes, but this information isn't shared with potential employers or credit agencies.

been on unemployment twice and never had any issues getting hired afterward. most employers understand that people sometimes need these benefits especially with how crazy the job market has been

The only real 'effect' is that you'll have a base period established with NYS Department of Labor that determines your weekly benefit amount for future claims. If you file again within a certain timeframe, they'll look at your previous earnings history. But this isn't negative - it's just how the system calculates benefits. Also, while you're receiving benefits, you do need to actively search for work and document your job search activities.

I was worried about the same thing when I first filed. Had trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor by phone to ask questions, but eventually found claimyr.com which helped me get through to an agent quickly. They confirmed that filing doesn't hurt you - it's actually designed to help bridge the gap between jobs. The video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI shows how it works if you need to talk to someone directly about your specific situation.

Just remember you have to pay taxes on unemployment benefits! I forgot about this my first time and owed money at tax time. You can have taxes withheld from your weekly payments or pay quarterly, but don't forget like I did.