How to file for unemployment with NYS Department of Labor - need step by step help

First thing - don't panic! Filing with NYS Department of Labor is pretty straightforward once you know the steps. You'll need to go to labor.ny.gov and create an account if you don't have one. Have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment history for the last 18 months ready. You'll need employer names, addresses, dates of employment, and reason for separation. The system will walk you through each step, but make sure you answer everything accurately because mistakes can cause delays in adjudication.

The basic process is: 1) File your initial claim online at labor.ny.gov 2) Wait for your monetary determination (shows your benefit amount) 3) Start filing weekly claims 4) Complete job search requirements. Most important tip - file your claim the same week you lose your job, don't wait! Even if there's an issue that needs adjudication, getting it started early is crucial. You can file Sunday through Friday, and the system is usually less busy during weekday mornings.

First, don't panic - the process is straightforward once you know the steps. You'll file online at my.ny.gov. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, employment history for the past 18 months (employer names, addresses, dates worked), and your most recent pay stub. The system will walk you through each step. Make sure to apply as soon as possible since there's a waiting week before benefits start.

The online application takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. You don't need W-2s for the initial filing, just approximate employment dates and wages. NYS Department of Labor will verify everything with your employers. After you file, you'll get a determination letter in about a week if there are no issues. Start filing your weekly claims immediately even if your initial claim is still processing.

ugh the NYS Department of Labor website is SO confusing though! I spent like 3 hours trying to figure out where to even start filing. Why can't they make this easier when people are already stressed about losing their jobs??

Just filed mine last month - make sure you have your last day of work date exact! I put the wrong date and had to go through a whole thing to get it corrected. Also they ask about any vacation pay or severance so have those amounts ready if you got them.

i filed last month and it was pretty easy actually just go to the website and follow the prompts. make sure you have all your info ready before you start because it times out if you take too long

One thing people don't mention - if you have trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor by phone to check on your claim status, I found this service called Claimyr that helped me get connected to an actual agent. You can check it out at claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI. Really saved me time when I was stuck in adjudication for weeks.

been there! it's really not as scary as it seems once you start

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS A NIGHTMARE!!! I've been trying to file for three days and the website keeps crashing. And when you call the phone number you just get hung up on after waiting for hours. This is supposed to help people but it's like they don't want you to actually get benefits.

Just want to add that you'll also need to register for job search activities through the NYS Department of Labor website. It's a separate requirement but important for maintaining your benefits. Good luck with everything!

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago and I completely understand the stress! Here's what I wish someone had told me: First, gather all your documents BEFORE you start the online application - your Social Security card, driver's license, last pay stub, and a list of all employers from the past 18 months with their addresses and phone numbers. The application will time out if you take too long looking for information. Second, file your claim the week you lose your job, don't wait! I made that mistake and it delayed everything. Third, once you file your initial claim, you MUST file weekly claims every week even if your initial claim is still being processed - this is super important or you'll lose benefits for those weeks. The whole process usually takes 2-3 weeks if there are no complications, but start filing those weekly claims right away. You've got this!

I filed for unemployment with NYS Department of Labor about 3 months ago and wanted to share a few tips that really helped me. First, create your account at labor.ny.gov early in the morning (like 6-7 AM) when the system is less busy - I had way fewer technical issues that way. Second, when they ask for your employment history, don't stress if you can't remember exact dates or addresses - approximate information is fine for the initial filing and they'll verify details with your employers later. Third, save a copy of everything you submit and write down your confirmation numbers! I also recommend setting up direct deposit right away so your benefits go straight to your bank account. The whole process took about 10 days for me to get my first payment, but that was because I filed immediately after my last day of work. You're going to be okay - just take it one step at a time and don't be afraid to call if you get stuck on any part of the application.