NYDOL: How to backdate unemployment claim and explain late filing?

I've been there before. For the late filing, you could say you were unaware of your eligibility or had some personal issues that delayed your filing. As for the days not ready to work, if you've been available every day since your last job, just put 0. If there were specific days you couldn't work, count those up.

Quick tip: backdating your claim isn't the same as submitting a waiver. You're just asking them to adjust the start date to when you actually became unemployed. Good luck!

Ugh, the unemployment system is such a mess 🤦‍♀️ I had to backdate my claim too and it was a nightmare. Took weeks to get it sorted out. Hope you have better luck!

Here's what worked for me: 1. Be honest about why you filed late. Personal circumstances or lack of awareness are valid reasons. 2. Provide any documentation you have about your last day of work. 3. For the 'ready, willing, and able to work' question, only count days where you were genuinely unavailable (like if you were sick or had a family emergency). 4. Be prepared for some back-and-forth. They might ask for additional information. 5. If possible, try to speak with a representative directly. Sometimes explaining your situation verbally can help. Remember, the goal is to get the benefits you're entitled to. Don't stress too much about the perfect answer - just be truthful and provide as much information as you can. Good luck!

Hey, just wanted to share something that might help. I found a way to actually get someone on the phone at the unemployment office. There's this site called claimyr.com that has a calling tool. It dials through the phone menu, stays on hold, and then connects you when a live agent picks up. It costs $20, but it saved me hours of frustration. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE

pro tip: if u say u were sick or had covid they usually dont ask for proof. just sayin 👀

Has anyone else noticed that the unemployment website is always "under maintenance" when you need it most? 🙄 It's like they're trying to make this as difficult as possible!

I went through this exact same situation a few months ago! For the backdating reason, I explained that I was dealing with the stress of job loss and didn't realize I needed to file immediately. They accepted it without any issues. As for the "ready, willing, and able" question - just be honest about any days you genuinely couldn't work (like if you were sick or had interviews). If you've been available the whole time, put 0. The process took about 2-3 weeks for me, but I did get all my backdated payments. Don't overthink it too much - they deal with late filings all the time!

Just wanted to add - when you're filling out the backdating request, make sure you have your termination documentation ready (like your final paycheck stub or separation notice). I backdated mine to my last day of work too, and having that paperwork made the process smoother. Also, don't worry too much about the exact wording for why you filed late - "personal circumstances following job loss" or "unfamiliarity with the filing process" are both totally valid. The unemployment office knows people don't always file immediately, especially when dealing with the shock of losing a job. You've got this! 💪