Just applied for ny unemployment today - can I still get backpay?

Yes, you can request backpay but you'll need to explain why you delayed filing. They may or may not approve it depending on your reason. When I lost my job, I waited about 6 weeks to apply because I thought I had another job lined up (which fell through). I explained this when I called and they backdated my claim. You'll definitely need to talk to a rep though - the website doesn't let you request backpay on your own.

After struggling for weeks to reach NY unemployment, I found this service called claimyr.com that actually works! I was skeptical at first but it connected me with an agent who backdated my claim. It was the best money I've ever spent to finally get my benefits paid quickly. Check out this video about how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE

Bad news... you only have 30 days from when you lost your job to apply for benefits if you want them backdated to your last day of work. At least that's what I was told when I tried to do the same thing last year. You might still be able to argue your case, but be prepared for a fight.

This is actually not 100% true. There's no specific law that says you only have 30 days to backdate. You can request backpay, but you'll need to provide a "good cause" explanation for why you delayed filing. I filed 2 months after losing my job and got fully backdated because I had documentation showing I was dealing with some health issues that prevented me from filing right away. The most important thing is to contact them ASAP and be persistent. The unemployment system in NY is a complete mess right now with people still having issues from claims filed months ago. Here's what worked for me: 1. Document exactly when you lost work and why you didn't file immediately 2. Be prepared to explain this multiple times to different agents 3. Follow up relentlessly - don't assume they're processing your request 4. If calling isn't working (and it probably won't because their phone lines are insane), try using claimyr.com - it's a service that waits on hold for you and connects you with an agent 5. Once you get someone on the phone, be polite but firm about your situation 6. Ask them to document everything in your file 7. Get the agent's name and ID number if possible The key is actually getting a human on the phone who can help you. That was the hardest part for me until I found that callback service. Good luck!

The NY unemployment site is such garbage. I tried uploading documents for WEEKS and kept getting errors. WEEKS!!!

Whatever you do DO NOT just accept what they tell you online. You NEED to talk to a real person. The website is designed to deny people. I spent 3 months trying to get my benefits and only succeeded when I finally got someone on the phone who fixed everything in 10 minutes.

If you're looking for work let me know. My company is hiring customer service reps, all remote. Pay isn't amazing but it's something.

I waited almost 2 months to file and they only backdated me 1 week. Said I didn't have "good cause" for not filing sooner. The whole system is rigged to pay out as little as possible.

You need 2 submit what they call a "Request for Backdate" form. Its not on the website (OF COURSE 🙄) but if you call and speak to an agent they can send it to you. Then you gotta mail it back or fax it. So freaking archaic!

dont feel bad for waiting, the entire system is designed to be confusing and frustrating. Its all about keeping those unemployment numbers low by makng it too annoying to claim benefits. I waited 2 months before filing and still got my backpay, but i had to FIGHT for it.

I know everyone's saying you need to talk to someone on the phone (which is true), but also try their social media. DM them on Twitter can sometimes get a response faster than calling! Not all agents there can help with backdating but some can at least point you in right direction.

I applied in December after losing my job in August. I just told them I was depressed and didn't have the energy to deal with the system (which was true). They backdated my claim to September. Just be honest about why you waited.

My brother works for NY unemployment (don't kill me lol). He says they're being more strict about backdating claims lately, but if you have ANY reasonable explanation, they should approve it. Document everything, be persistent, and don't take no for an answer.

Apply for food stamps too while ur waiting! NY has emergency benefits that can be approved in like 5 days. Made a huge difference for me when my unemployment was delayed.