How to show proof of job search for unemployment - NYS Department of Labor requirements?

You need to keep a detailed log of all your job search activities. NYS Department of Labor requires 3 work search activities per week. This includes job applications, attending job fairs, networking events, or contacting employers directly. For online applications, take screenshots showing the date you applied, company name, and position title. Keep everything organized by week - if they do an audit, you'll need to provide documentation for any week they request.

I keep a simple spreadsheet with date, company name, position, how I applied (online/in person), and any confirmation numbers or emails I got. For Indeed applications, I screenshot the 'application submitted' page. For company websites, I save the confirmation email. NYS Department of Labor has never asked me for proof in 2 years of claims, but better safe than sorry.

If you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor to clarify their exact requirements, I found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to an actual agent. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. I used it when I had questions about my job search documentation and got connected to someone who explained everything clearly.

they never check anyway so dont stress about it too much, just keep basic records and youll be fine

I got audited last year and it was a nightmare! They wanted proof for 6 random weeks going back 3 months. Luckily I had everything documented but some people in my situation didn't and lost their benefits. Make sure you save confirmation emails, take screenshots, and keep a log with specific details about each application.

I've been documenting my job search for 8 months now and here's what works for me: create a folder on your phone/computer for each week, then save screenshots of every application confirmation page, job posting, and any emails you receive. For LinkedIn Easy Apply jobs, I screenshot both the job posting and the "application sent" confirmation. For company websites, I save the confirmation email and take a screenshot of the application form before submitting. I also write down the time I spent on each application since NYS Department of Labor considers time spent as part of the work search activity. Haven't been audited yet, but my case worker told me this level of documentation would definitely satisfy their requirements if I ever am.

From my experience dealing with NYS Department of Labor audits, they don't specify a minimum time requirement per application, but they do look for evidence of "genuine work search efforts." What matters most is that you can demonstrate you actually reviewed the job posting, tailored your application appropriately, and made a legitimate attempt to secure employment. I usually spend at least 15-20 minutes per application (reading the job description, customizing my cover letter, etc.) and I note this in my log. The key is showing quality over quantity - three well-documented, thoughtful applications per week will satisfy their requirements much better than rushing through applications just to hit a number. They're really looking to see that you're actively and seriously seeking work, not just going through the motions.