How to get the most out of unemployment benefits - NYS Department of Labor strategies
I just got laid off from my marketing job and I'm filing for unemployment for the first time. I want to make sure I'm doing everything right to get the most out of unemployment benefits while I'm job searching. Does anyone have tips on maximizing your weekly benefit amount, understanding all the programs available, or making sure you don't miss out on anything? I've heard there are job training programs and other resources but the NYS Department of Labor website is overwhelming. What should I prioritize to get the most out of unemployment benefits during my claim period?
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Grace Lee
First thing - make sure you're reporting your wages correctly when you file your initial claim. Your benefit amount is calculated based on your highest earning quarter in your base period, so double-check that all your W-2s from the past 18 months are accurate. Also file your weekly claims on the same day every week and never miss one, even if you worked that week. You still need to file and report any earnings.
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William Rivera
•Thanks! I didn't know about the highest earning quarter thing. Should I include my part-time job from last summer or just my main job?
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Mia Roberts
Don't forget about the job search requirements! You need to document 3 work search activities per week and keep a log. But here's the thing - you can count more than just job applications. Attending job fairs, networking events, career counseling sessions, even online career workshops count. The NYS Department of Labor also has free training programs through Workforce One that can extend your benefits if you qualify.
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The Boss
•Wait, career workshops count? I've been only counting actual job applications and I'm already at like 20 applications with no responses. This is helpful!
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Evan Kalinowski
I had trouble reaching anyone at NYS Department of Labor when I had questions about maximizing my benefits. The phone lines are always busy and I kept getting hung up on. Someone on here mentioned claimyr.com which helped me actually get through to speak with an agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Really helped me understand some benefit options I didn't know about.
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Victoria Charity
•How much does that service cost? I'm trying to save money while unemployed obviously
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Evan Kalinowski
•It was worth it for me to get my questions answered quickly instead of spending hours trying to get through. The agent explained some training programs I qualified for that I never would have found on my own.
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Jasmine Quinn
Make sure you understand the difference between regular UI and any standby status if your employer put you on temporary layoff. If you're on standby, you might have different requirements and your job search activities could be waived. Also, if you get any part-time work, report it honestly - you can still get partial benefits and it's better than risking an overpayment notice later.
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William Rivera
•My employer said it might be temporary but they weren't sure. How do I know if I'm supposed to file for standby or regular unemployment?
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Oscar Murphy
honestly the whole system is set up to pay you as little as possible. i've been on unemployment twice and both times they found some excuse to delay my payments or question my eligibility. just expect them to make it difficult and document EVERYTHING. save all your job search logs, screenshot your weekly claim confirmations, keep records of any correspondence.
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Mia Roberts
•While the system can be frustrating, following the rules correctly usually prevents most issues. The documentation advice is solid though - always keep records of your weekly claims and job search activities.
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The Boss
One thing I learned - if you're thinking about going back to school, look into the training programs first before you start. Some programs can extend your benefits or even waive job search requirements while you're in approved training. But you have to get approval before you start the program.
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