How to apply for unemployment for IHSS workers - NYS Department of Labor process?
I've been working as an IHSS provider for my elderly neighbor for about 8 months now but they're moving to a care facility next week. I know IHSS workers can qualify for unemployment but I'm not sure how the application process works with NYS Department of Labor since this isn't a traditional employer situation. Do I apply the same way as regular employees? What documentation do I need? Has anyone else filed for UI after losing IHSS work?
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Hassan Khoury
Yes, IHSS workers can definitely file for unemployment benefits in NY. You'll apply through the my.ny.gov portal just like any other worker. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, and employment information for the last 18 months. For IHSS work, you should have received a W-2 or 1099 form that shows your earnings - you'll need those details when filing your weekly claims.
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Alice Fleming
•Thank you! I do have my paperwork from this year. Do I need to report the specific client information or just list it as IHSS work?
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Victoria Stark
i filed after my ihss client passed away last year and it was pretty straightforward. just make sure you have all your pay stubs because they ask for specific dates and amounts. the hardest part was explaining the job search requirement since ihss work is so specialized
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Benjamin Kim
For the job search requirements, you can look for other IHSS positions, but NYS Department of Labor also accepts applications to home health agencies, nursing facilities, or other caregiving roles. Keep detailed records of your job search activities because you'll need to report them with your weekly claims. The system understands that IHSS work has a smaller job market than other fields.
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Samantha Howard
•This is really helpful! I was worried about finding enough job opportunities to meet the search requirements in this field.
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Megan D'Acosta
I had trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor when my IHSS case ended unexpectedly. Spent weeks trying to call and getting disconnected. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you actually reach a real person at the unemployment office. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Made the whole process so much easier than trying to navigate the phone system myself.
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Alice Fleming
•How much does something like that cost? I'm already stressed about money with losing this job.
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Megan D'Acosta
•They focus on getting you connected rather than the cost. For me it was worth it because I was losing time and getting nowhere with the regular phone lines. Check out their site for details.
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Sarah Ali
Make sure you apply as soon as possible after your last day of work! Don't wait because there's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits start. Also be prepared for potential adjudication if they need to verify your IHSS employment - it's not uncommon for non-traditional work arrangements to require additional review.
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Alice Fleming
•What happens during adjudication? Should I be worried about that?
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Hassan Khoury
•Adjudication just means they're reviewing your case to confirm eligibility. For IHSS workers, they might verify your employment status and earnings. As long as you have proper documentation, it should resolve without issues.
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