How does unemployment benefits work - confused about NYS Department of Labor process

The NYS Department of Labor unemployment process has several steps. First, you file your initial claim online at my.ny.gov within the first week of unemployment. You'll need your Social Security number, employment history for the last 18 months, and reason for separation. After filing, there's typically a one-week waiting period before benefits begin. Your weekly benefit amount is calculated based on your highest quarter of earnings in your base period. You must file weekly claims every week you want benefits, certifying that you're able, available, and actively seeking work. The job search requirement is currently 3 work search activities per week, which you need to document in case NYS Department of Labor asks for verification.

yeah the system is pretty straightforward once you get started. just make sure you file your weekly claims on time every week or you'll lose that weeks benefits. i think the job search thing is like applying for jobs, going to interviews, stuff like that

To add to what others said - work search activities include job applications, attending job interviews, networking events, job training programs, and even creating professional profiles on job sites like Indeed or LinkedIn. Keep detailed records because NYS Department of Labor can request verification at any time. If you miss the deadline for your weekly claim filing (usually Sunday night), you can still file late but there might be delays in payment. Also, if your employer contests your claim, it could go into adjudication which can delay benefits for several weeks while they investigate.

Employers contest claims all the time to avoid having their unemployment tax rates increased. If they claim you were fired for misconduct or quit voluntarily, NYS Department of Labor will investigate. You'll get a notice if your claim goes into adjudication and they'll likely schedule a phone interview with you. During adjudication, you won't receive benefits until they make a decision. This is where a lot of people get stuck for weeks or months trying to reach someone at NYS Department of Labor to check on their case status.

omg this is giving me flashbacks to when I filed 3 years ago... the stress of not knowing if you'll get approved is the worst part. at least now you can do everything online instead of having to mail forms

Here's what nobody tells you - even after you're approved, payments can still get held up for random verification requests. NYS Department of Labor might ask you to prove your identity, verify your work history, or confirm your job search activities. Always respond immediately to any requests or your benefits will be suspended. Also, keep in mind that unemployment benefits are taxable income, so you can choose to have taxes withheld or pay them later when you file your tax return. The maximum weekly benefit amount in New York is currently $504, but most people get less depending on their previous wages.