How to get help filing for unemployment with NYS Department of Labor - confused about the process
I just lost my job last week and I'm completely overwhelmed trying to figure out how to file for unemployment benefits with NYS Department of Labor. I've been to the my.ny.gov website but it's so confusing with all the different sections and forms. I don't want to mess something up and delay my claim. Does anyone know where I can get actual help walking through the filing process? I've tried calling the NYS Department of Labor phone number but it just keeps saying high call volume and hangs up on me. Are there any other resources or people who can help guide me through this step by step?
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Raul Neal
The initial filing process can definitely be overwhelming but it's more straightforward than it looks. You'll want to have your employment history for the last 18 months ready including employer names, addresses, and dates of employment. Also gather your Social Security card and driver's license. Start at labor.ny.gov and look for the 'File a Claim' section. The system will walk you through each step, but take your time and don't rush through the questions about why you left your job - that's crucial for your eligibility determination.
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Heather Tyson
•Thank you! Do I need to know exact salary amounts or will approximate numbers work for now?
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Jenna Sloan
You need exact wage information, not approximations. If you don't have your pay stubs, you can request wage statements from your former employer or check if they're available in your online payroll portal. The NYS Department of Labor will verify this information anyway, so accuracy is important to avoid delays in processing your claim.
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Christian Burns
ugh the phone situation is THE WORST!! i've been trying to get through to someone at NYS Department of Labor for weeks about my claim and it's impossible. the system just hangs up on you constantly
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Sasha Reese
•I had the same problem trying to reach NYS Department of Labor agents until someone told me about Claimyr. It's a service that basically waits on hold for you and connects you when they get through. 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 a real person at NYS Department of Labor within a few hours when I'd been trying for days on my own.
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Muhammad Hobbs
Just so you know, once you file your initial claim you'll need to certify for benefits every week by filing your weekly claim. Don't forget to do this even while your claim is being processed or you could lose benefits for those weeks.
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Noland Curtis
Make sure you understand the job search requirements too! NYS Department of Labor requires you to make work search contacts each week and keep a log. The requirements changed recently so don't assume you know what they are if you've filed before.
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Heather Tyson
•How many job search contacts do I need to make per week? And what counts as a valid contact?
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