NYS Department of Labor seasonal unemployment - construction worker winter layoffs covered?
Hey everyone, I work construction and got laid off last week because we can't pour concrete in this weather. My foreman said it's just seasonal and I should file for unemployment until spring work starts back up. Is this actually covered by NYS Department of Labor? I've never filed before and don't know if seasonal layoffs count as valid reasons. The company said they'll definitely bring me back in March but that's still 3 months away. Anyone else deal with this kind of situation?
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Jade Lopez
Yes, seasonal unemployment is definitely covered by NYS Department of Labor! Construction workers are classic examples - you're laid off due to weather conditions beyond your control. File your claim immediately and make sure to indicate it's a temporary layoff with expected recall date. You'll need to do weekly certifications and job search activities unless your employer provides a specific recall date within 8 weeks.
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Arjun Patel
•Thanks! Do I still need to look for other jobs if my company is bringing me back in March? Seems weird to apply places when I already have work lined up.
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Tony Brooks
same thing happened to me last winter, filed right away and got benefits the whole time until they called me back
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Ella rollingthunder87
Seasonal unemployment is one of the main reasons the unemployment system exists. Other examples include ski instructors in summer, beach lifeguards in winter, agricultural workers between harvests, and retail workers after holiday seasons. The key is that it's predictable and due to seasonal factors, not company downsizing or performance issues. Make sure you file online at labor.ny.gov and have your employer information ready.
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Yara Campbell
•this is really helpful info, I had no idea there were so many seasonal jobs that qualify
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Isaac Wright
I tried calling NYS Department of Labor about my seasonal layoff last month and could never get through! The phone just rings forever or gives me a busy signal. It's so frustrating when you need answers about your claim status. Has anyone found a way to actually talk to someone there?
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Maya Diaz
•I had the same problem until I found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com - they can get you connected to NYS Department of Labor agents without the endless waiting. There's even a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Saved me hours of frustration trying to get through on my own.
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Tami Morgan
wait but what if the company doesn't actually call you back? my buddy got 'seasonally laid off' and they never brought him back even though they said they would
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Jade Lopez
•If they don't recall you by the expected date, you just continue your claim and start broader job search activities. The seasonal designation doesn't lock you into waiting forever - you can always expand your search if the recall doesn't happen.
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Aaliyah Jackson
Just wanted to add - make sure you keep records of your layoff date and any communication from your employer about the seasonal nature and expected return date. NYS DOL may ask for documentation to verify it's truly seasonal and not a permanent separation. Also, if you have any side skills like snow removal or indoor renovation work, you might be able to pick up some temporary income while collecting benefits, just make sure to report any earnings on your weekly certifications.
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