How to get proof of active NY unemployment benefits for my landlord?
My landlord is asking for documentation showing I'm currently receiving NY unemployment benefits. Where do I find official proof that my UI claim is active and I'm getting payments? Is there a specific document or letter I can download from my account? I need something official with my name and benefit amount that I can show as proof of income.
19 comments


Niko Ramsey
You can get this from your NY.GOV account. Log in, go to your unemployment services dashboard, and look for 'Payment History' or 'Monetary Determination'. The Monetary Determination letter shows your weekly benefit amount and is considered official documentation. You can download and print it directly from your account.
0 coins
Anna Kerber
•Thanks! I found the Payment History but don't see the Monetary Determination letter anywhere. Is that under a different section?
0 coins
Seraphina Delan
i had 2 print my payment history screen n show my landlord that. took a screenshot with my phone then printed it at the library. dont overthink it 🤷♂️
0 coins
Anna Kerber
•Did your landlord accept just the payment history screenshot? Mine seems pretty strict about wanting something "official.
0 coins
Niko Ramsey
The Monetary Determination should be under 'Messages' or 'Documents' in your account. It's the official letter that was sent when your claim was approved. If you can't find it, you can also request a Benefits Statement by calling NYSDOL directly.
0 coins
Anna Kerber
•I've been trying to call for three days but can't get through to anyone. Always get the 'high call volume' message and then it hangs up.
0 coins
Jabari-Jo
Some landlords are SO annoying about this! Mine wanted a notarized letter 🙄 I ended up using the payment history AND bank statements showing the deposits. That usually works because it shows a consistent payment pattern.
0 coins
Anna Kerber
•That's a good idea! I'll try the bank statements too. Maybe both together will work.
0 coins
Kristin Frank
I had the same problem reaching the NYSDOL by phone when I needed documentation. After days of trying, I used Claimyr.com to get through to an agent right away. They have this callback service specifically for NY unemployment calls. You can see how it works in their video demo: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE Once I got through to a rep, they emailed me an official benefits verification letter within an hour. Saved me so much stress with my landlord situation!
0 coins
Micah Trail
•is that service legit?? seems sketchy that u have to pay to talk to unemployment when its a free government service
0 coins
Kristin Frank
It's definitely legit. I was skeptical too, but they just help you get through the phone system faster. You're still talking directly to the actual NYSDOL agents. The unemployment office itself is free, you're just paying to skip the phone wait. Totally worth it when you're desperate for documentation.
0 coins
Anna Kerber
•I might try this if I can't find what I need in my account. Thanks for the suggestion!
0 coins
Nia Watson
Just to add another option - I had to provide proof for my apartment application and I used the Benefits Payment History PLUS the initial determination letter. You can actually request a Benefit Payment History with the official NYSDOL letterhead through your online account. Go to Unemployment Services → Payment History → then look for "Request Official Payment History." It takes about 2-3 days to process but comes with all the official markings landlords usually want.
0 coins
Anna Kerber
•THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT I NEEDED! Thank you so much! I just found this option and requested it.
0 coins
Alberto Souchard
Did anyone notice the NYSDOL website changed last month? I couldnt find ANYTHING after they updated it. All the options moved around and now I can barely navigate it. They should warn people before changing everything!!!!
0 coins
Niko Ramsey
•Yes, they updated the portal in February 2025. The main documentation features are still there but under different menu paths now. If you're looking for specific documents, use the search function at the top of the dashboard.
0 coins
Anna Kerber
UPDATE: I found the Request Official Payment History option like @profile4 suggested and received the document today with the NYSDOL letterhead. It shows my weekly benefit amount and payment history. My landlord accepted it! Thanks everyone for your help!
0 coins
Jabari-Jo
•Great news! Glad it worked out for you!
0 coins
Isaac Wright
So glad you got it sorted out! For anyone else reading this thread, I just want to add that if you're having trouble with the updated NY.GOV portal, you can also try accessing it through the mobile app - sometimes the mobile version is easier to navigate. Also, if you need the documentation urgently and can't wait 2-3 days for the official payment history, many landlords will accept a combination of your most recent payment screenshot AND a bank statement showing the deposits. Just make sure both documents clearly show your name and the amounts match up.
0 coins