NYS Department of Labor job search documentation - how to prove job search for unemployment weekly claims?

You definitely want to keep detailed records! NYS Department of Labor accepts job applications, networking events, job fairs, interviews, and skills training as valid job search activities. For online applications, screenshot the confirmation page with the company name, position, and date visible. Also keep a simple log with date, company, position, and method of contact. Store everything in a folder - digital or physical doesn't matter as long as you can access it quickly if they ask.

i got audited last year and they wanted EVERYTHING. dates, company names, contact info, what happened with each application. definitely keep more than you think you need

The my.ny.gov system doesn't have a place to upload job search records - you maintain your own documentation. But here's what I learned after dealing with a job search verification: create a simple spreadsheet with columns for Date, Company Name, Position Title, Method (online application, phone call, etc.), and Contact Person if applicable. For online applications, save the confirmation emails or take screenshots. For networking or job fair activities, keep business cards or event flyers. The key is being able to prove you made genuine effort to find work.

Wait, do temp agency registrations count as job search activities? I signed up with three different agencies last month.

Honestly, if you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor agents to clarify the job search requirements, I used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to someone. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. I was stuck on hold for hours trying to get clarification about my specific situation and this actually got me connected to a real person who could explain exactly what documentation I needed to keep.

The whole system is ridiculous honestly. They make us jump through all these hoops but half the job postings are fake anyway and companies don't even respond to applications anymore. But yeah you gotta play their game so keep everything documented.

Great advice from everyone here! I'd also recommend creating a backup system for your documentation. I keep both digital copies (Google Drive folder) and print out important stuff monthly just in case. One thing I learned the hard way - when you apply through job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn, also grab a screenshot of the actual job posting itself, not just the confirmation page. Sometimes those postings get taken down and if DOL wants to verify the job actually existed, you'll have proof. Also, if you do phone inquiries, jot down the date, time, and who you spoke with (even if it's just a receptionist). Those count as job contacts too and it shows you're being proactive beyond just online applications.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is that career counseling sessions and job search workshops also count as valid job search activities! Many local libraries and workforce development centers offer free workshops on resume writing, interview skills, or networking. I've attended several and they not only count toward your weekly requirement but actually help improve your search strategy. Make sure to get some kind of proof you attended - a certificate, sign-in sheet, or even just the event flyer with your notes on it. Also, if you're in a specific field, professional association meetings or industry events can count too. It's a good way to network while meeting your job search requirements.