How high is unemployment right now in NY - should I file for benefits?
I've been hearing different numbers about how high unemployment is right now and I'm wondering if it's worth filing for NYS Department of Labor benefits. I got laid off from my retail job last week and my manager said the store might not reopen for a few months due to slow business. Is the unemployment rate really that bad right now? Should I expect a long wait to get approved since so many people are probably filing claims?
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Amelia Dietrich
The current unemployment rate varies by region but you should definitely file for benefits regardless of the overall numbers. NYS Department of Labor processes claims based on individual eligibility, not the unemployment rate. File as soon as possible since there's a waiting period and benefits are backdated to when you first become unemployed, not when you file.
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KhalilStar
•Thanks! I wasn't sure if they would be overwhelmed with applications. How long does the approval process usually take?
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Kaiya Rivera
yeah the numbers are pretty high right now but like the other person said just file anyway. i filed last month and it took about 2 weeks to get my first payment
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Katherine Ziminski
Don't worry about the overall unemployment statistics - focus on your own situation. You'll need to file weekly claims and meet job search requirements regardless. The NYS Department of Labor system is designed to handle volume fluctuations. Make sure you have all your employment history ready when you file online.
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Noah Irving
•EXACTLY! The system is such a mess right now with everyone filing. I've been trying to get through to someone at NYS Department of Labor for weeks about my adjudication issue and the phone lines are always busy!!
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Vanessa Chang
I think unemployment is around 4% statewide but honestly who knows with all the different ways they count it. The important thing is you qualify if you lost your job through no fault of your own.
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Madison King
File ASAP! I waited too long thinking the rates would go down and missed out on benefits. The NYS Department of Labor doesn't care about overall unemployment numbers when processing your individual claim.
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