How far back can I claim unemployment benefits with NYS Department of Labor?

You can typically backdate your unemployment claim up to 30 days from when you file, but there are exceptions. Since you were laid off in March and it's now much later, you'll likely need to show good cause for the delay. The NYS Department of Labor requires you to file within a reasonable time after becoming unemployed. You should still apply ASAP and explain the situation - sometimes they'll approve backdating if your employer gave you incorrect information.

File immediately and request backdating to your layoff date. In your application, there's a section where you can explain why you didn't file sooner. Employer misinformation is actually considered good cause by NYS Department of Labor. Keep that text message as proof. The worst they can say is no, but you might be surprised. I've seen people get approved for backdating even after several months.

ugh same thing happened to me but my old manager said i quit so i couldnt get benefits... turns out that was total BS and i could have appealed but now its too late i think

I had to deal with this exact situation last year when I couldn't get through to NYS Department of Labor for weeks to file my initial claim. The phone lines were constantly busy and the website kept crashing. I ended up using a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Within a day I was able to speak to someone who helped me backdate my claim and explain the technical difficulties I had filing.

The 30 day thing is more of a guideline than a hard rule. I know someone who got backdated for like 3 months because they were in the hospital. Your situation with employer misinformation sounds similar - just be honest about why you delayed and provide any proof you have. The key is filing ASAP now that you know you should have applied earlier.

Sophie, definitely file your claim right away! I was in a similar situation last year where I delayed filing for about 2 months because I was told I wouldn't qualify. When I finally applied, I was honest in the application about the delay and included screenshots of the messages where I was given incorrect information. NYS DOL actually approved my backdating request. The key is to be completely transparent about why you waited and provide any documentation you have. That text message from your boss could be really helpful as evidence. Don't wait any longer - the sooner you file, the better your chances of getting those backdated benefits.