How far back can you collect unemployment benefits through NYS Department of Labor?

You can request backdating but NYS Department of Labor only allows it under specific circumstances. Generally you need to show good cause for why you didn't file immediately - like hospitalization, family emergency, or not knowing you were eligible. They typically won't backdate more than 4 weeks without really compelling reasons. You should file your claim ASAP and explain the delay when they ask.

file now!! i waited too and they only gave me 2 weeks back pay. better than nothing but i lost out on like $2000. the longer you wait the harder it gets to justify the delay

The NYS Department of Labor has specific rules about backdating claims. You need to file within one year of becoming unemployed to be eligible at all. For backdating beyond the first week, they require documentation showing why you couldn't file earlier. Being unaware of eligibility sometimes qualifies as good cause, especially if you can show you researched other options first. When you file online, there's a section where you can request backdating and explain your circumstances.

Had a similar situation last year where I couldn't get through to NYS Department of Labor on the phone for weeks to ask questions about my eligibility. Kept getting busy signals and the callback system never worked. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an actual agent who helped me file and explained the backdating process. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Made the whole process so much easier than fighting the phone system.

honestly the nys unemployment system is so backed up they probably won't even question a 3 month delay right now. everyone's overwhelmed. just apply and see what happens, worst case they say no to some of the back weeks

Just to clarify - not knowing you were eligible can be good cause if you can document that you researched other options or received conflicting advice. Keep any emails or notes about job search activities during those months. The key is showing you weren't just procrastinating but had legitimate reasons for the delay.

I was in a very similar situation - got laid off in September but didn't file until December because I was confident I'd land something quickly. NYS DOL approved my backdating request once I explained that I genuinely believed unemployment was meant as a last resort and had been actively interviewing. The key thing that helped my case was showing a clear timeline of my job search efforts during those months. I submitted screenshots of job applications, interview confirmations, and even rejection emails to prove I was pursuing work rather than just delaying. They ended up giving me back pay for about 8 weeks out of the 12 I requested. Don't let the fear of rejection stop you from trying - the worst they can say is no to some of the weeks, but you'll still get benefits going forward.