NY unemployment after layoff - when to file and how? Online vs phone question

File online ASAP! There's no waiting period in NY anymore - you can file the same day you're laid off. The NYSDOL website is WAY faster than trying to call. Just go to labor.ny.gov and click on 'Unemployment Benefits'. Have your last 18 months of employment info ready. I filed online last year when I got laid off and it took maybe 20 minutes tops.

DONT WAIT!!! File immediately - every day you wait is $$$ lost because NY doesn't backdate claims anymore unless you have an excellent reason. The system will make you wait a week anyway (waiting week) so the sooner you start the better. And definitely do it online, the phone system is INSANE. I waited 3 weeks trying to get through by phone before I finally just did it online.

the online thing is easy but if u need to TALK to someone good luck lol. took me 2 months to get someone on the phone when they messed up my claim last year

When I got laid off in January, I tried calling first and it was absolutely useless - automated messages and disconnects for days. I was really stressed because I had a question about my severance affecting my benefits. I ended up using a service called Claimyr that got me connected to an actual NYSDOL agent in about 20 minutes. Saved me so much stress! They have a video showing how it works at https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE - basically they navigate the phone system for you and call you when they get an agent on the line. Their website is claimyr.com if you end up needing to speak to someone.

Here's what you need to know (I've been through this twice in NY): 1. File online immediately at labor.ny.gov 2. You'll need: last employer's info, start/end dates, your SSN, and ID 3. You can estimate your wages if you don't have exact numbers 4. After you apply, you must claim weekly benefits ("certify") every week, even while waiting for approval 5. The first week after approval is an unpaid waiting week 6. In 2025, the max benefit is $577 per week If you received severance, you should still apply right away but indicate this on your application. Depending on how it was paid, it may affect your benefits timing. One last tip: print or screenshot your confirmation page when you finish filing! Makes it easier if you need to reference your claim.

i filed for ny unemployment last yr. do it online for sure but just know that the 1st week is a 'waiting week' - u dont get paid for it but u still gotta certify. oh and when thye say certify every week they MEAN IT - if u miss a week bye bye money. They dont remind u either lol

Quick heads up: After you submit your initial claim, make sure you check your email (including spam folder) AND your message inbox on the NY unemployment portal daily. They often send important requests for additional information with strict deadlines. Missing these can delay your payments by weeks or even cause denial.

One thing no one mentioned - you should also file for SNAP benefits (food assistance) at the same time if your income has dropped significantly. Many people qualify during unemployment but don't realize it. The application can be done online through NY's myBenefits website and it's completely separate from unemployment.

Make sure when you certify weekly you're answering EXACTLY correctly or they'll flag your account for review and freeze payments! Be hyper-literal with their questions. If you did ANY work, even an hour, report it. If you were 'unavailable' for work any day (like had a doctor's appointment) they count that too. The system is designed to catch people in tiny inconsistencies!