How to apply for unemployment number - NYS Department of Labor process?
I just got laid off from my construction job last Friday and need to figure out how to apply for unemployment number with NYS Department of Labor. My supervisor said I should file right away but I'm not sure where to start or what information I need. I've never been unemployed before so this is all new to me. Do I need to wait until my last paycheck comes through or can I start the application now? Also what's this unemployment number everyone keeps talking about - is that different from just filing a claim?
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ShadowHunter
You can file your initial claim online at my.ny.gov as soon as your last day of work. The 'unemployment number' you're referring to is your claim confirmation number that you'll get after filing your initial application. You'll need this number for all future weekly claims and correspondence with NYS Department of Labor. Don't wait for your final paycheck - file within the first week after losing your job to avoid any delays in benefit payments.
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Chloe Taylor
•Thanks! So I file at my.ny.gov and then I get a confirmation number? Do I need to do anything else after that or just wait?
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Diego Ramirez
The process is pretty straightforward once you know the steps. After you file your initial claim and get your confirmation number, you'll need to file weekly claims every week to certify that you're still unemployed and actively looking for work. NYS Department of Labor requires you to make at least 3 job contacts per week and keep a record of them. Your first payment usually takes 2-3 weeks after filing, assuming there are no issues with your claim.
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Anastasia Sokolov
•3 job contacts per week sounds like a lot when there aren't many construction jobs posted right now
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Sean O'Connor
omg the phone system is IMPOSSIBLE to get through to if you have questions! I've been trying to call NYS Department of Labor for weeks about my claim status and either get disconnected or sit on hold for hours. The website is supposed to have all the info but sometimes you really need to talk to a person
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Zara Ahmed
•I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to NYS Department of Labor agents by phone. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. I was skeptical at first but it actually got me connected to someone who could explain why my claim was stuck in adjudication.
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Sean O'Connor
•Really? That actually worked for you? I'm so desperate at this point I might try anything
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Luca Conti
Make sure you have all your employment info ready when you file - social security number, employer addresses, dates of employment, reason for separation. If you're missing anything or put wrong info it can delay your claim for weeks while they verify everything.
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Nia Johnson
been there, construction layoffs are rough. at least unemployment gives you something while you look for the next job. just don't expect it to cover all your bills
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