How the unemployment works - confused about NYS Department of Labor claim process

The unemployment system in NY has several steps. First, you file your initial claim on the NYS Department of Labor website (labor.ny.gov). You'll need your Social Security number, employment history for the last 18 months, and reason for job separation. After approval, you file weekly claims every week to certify you're still unemployed and looking for work. Your benefit amount is based on your previous wages, typically around 50% of your average weekly wage up to the maximum of $504 per week in 2025.

Yes you file weekly claims every week you want benefits. If you miss filing your weekly claim, you can usually file it late but there might be delays. The job search requirement is 3 work search activities per week - applying for jobs, networking, attending job fairs, etc. You need to keep a log of these activities because NYS Department of Labor can audit you anytime.

omg the whole process is SO confusing at first! i remember when i first applied i was totally lost too. but once you get into the rhythm of filing your weekly claims its not that bad. just make sure you answer all the questions honestly especially about any work you might have done that week even if its just a few hours

I had such a hard time getting through to NYS Department of Labor when I had questions about my claim status. The phone lines are always busy and the website chat never worked for me. I actually found this 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. Saved me hours of calling and getting disconnected.

The weekly claim questions are pretty straightforward - did you work, did you look for work, are you able and available to work, etc. Just answer truthfully. If you worked any hours that week you have to report it and they'll reduce your benefits accordingly but you might still get partial benefits depending on how much you earned.