NYS Department of Labor requirements to maintain unemployment benefits - what am I missing?

You need to keep detailed records of ALL your job search activities. NYS Department of Labor requires you to make at least 3 job contacts per week (applications, interviews, networking events, etc.) and you must be able to provide documentation if requested. Keep a log with company names, dates, contact methods, and any responses. Also make sure you're available for work Monday-Friday and can accept suitable employment. Don't just wing it - they do audit claims and if you can't prove your job search efforts, you could face an overpayment demand.

The most important thing is filing your weekly claims on time and being honest about any work or income. For job search, you need to register with the state job board and make at least 3 work search contacts per week. Keep everything documented - company, position, date, how you applied. If you're in a union or have a definite recall date within 4 weeks, the job search requirement might be waived. Also, don't forget to report ANY income, even if it's just $20 from a side gig.

I had the worst time trying to get through to NYS Department of Labor when I had questions about maintaining my benefits. Spent hours on hold just to get hung up on. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me connected to a real person at the unemployment office. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Saved me so much frustration when I needed to clarify my job search requirements and confirm I was doing everything correctly.

omg same situation here!! been collecting for 2 months and constantly worried im doing something wrong. the whole system is so confusing and every time i call they just tell me to check the website which doesnt really explain things clearly

The NYS Department of Labor system is a nightmare to navigate. They make it intentionally confusing so people will mess up and they can deny claims. I've been through three different appeals because they kept finding excuses to disqualify me. Document EVERYTHING because they will try to trip you up. Keep copies of every application, every email, every phone call log. Trust me, they're not on your side.

just keep filing every week and dont lie about anything. ive been on unemployment twice and never had any problems as long as you file on time