How to keep getting unemployment benefits - NYS Department of Labor weekly claim requirements?

You need to make at least 3 work search contacts per week and keep detailed records. The NYS Department of Labor requires you to search for work unless you're on approved standby status. Valid activities include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or career counseling sessions. Make sure you're available for work and able to accept suitable employment if offered.

just keep doing your weekly claims on time and dont miss any weeks or you'll have problems getting back on

The key things are: 1) File your weekly claim every week by the deadline 2) Complete 3 work search activities weekly 3) Report any work or earnings accurately 4) Respond immediately to any NYS Department of Labor requests for information 5) Keep detailed records of all job search activities including dates, employers contacted, and method of contact. You should also register with the state job bank if you haven't already.

Been on unemployment twice in the past few years and the system is so confusing! The job search requirements keep changing and they never explain anything clearly. Last time I was on benefits I had to do 5 contacts per week but now apparently it's 3? And the my.ny.gov website is always having technical issues when you're trying to file your weekly claim.

If you're having trouble reaching someone at NYS Department of Labor to clarify the requirements, I used a service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows exactly how it works. It was really helpful when I needed to verify my job search requirements and make sure I wasn't going to lose my benefits over a misunderstanding.

Most important thing is just be honest about everything and keep good records. The NYS Department of Labor will audit claims randomly so you want to have documentation ready if they ask for it.