How long must you work to get unemployment benefits in NY - confused about work history requirements

You don't need to work a full year! NYS Department of Labor looks at your base period which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. You need sufficient wages in that period - I think it's around $2,400 total in your base period and at least $1,584 in your highest quarter. Your 8 months of work should definitely count if you earned enough.

yeah the work requirement isnt that long, its more about how much you made. i qualified after working only 6 months when i got laid off last year

The wage requirements can be tricky though. NYS Department of Labor calculates it based on your highest quarter earnings and total base period wages. If you're close to the minimum, definitely apply anyway because they'll review your work history and let you know. Sometimes people think they don't qualify but actually do. The worst thing that happens is they say no, but at least you'll know for sure.

Just went through this whole process and it's such a hassle to get through to anyone at NYS Department of Labor to ask questions. I couldn't reach anyone for weeks using their regular phone number. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent who explained my eligibility. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Made the whole process way less stressful than trying to figure it out on my own.

I remember being so confused about this too when I first applied. The base period thing is confusing but basically if you worked consistently for 8 months you should be fine. Just make sure you have your pay stubs or W2s ready when you apply because they might ask for proof of your wages.