NYS Department of Labor unemployment after quitting - if i quit can i still get unemployment benefits?

Generally speaking, if you quit voluntarily, NYS Department of Labor will disqualify you from receiving unemployment benefits. However, there are exceptions for what they call 'good cause' situations. This includes things like harassment, unsafe working conditions, significant changes to your job duties or pay, or other circumstances that would make a reasonable person quit. You'd need to document everything and be prepared to explain your situation during the adjudication process.

i quit my last job because my boss was awful and i got denied unemployment. they said it was voluntary quit and that was it. maybe your situation is different but just be prepared that they might say no

Before you quit, try to get everything documented. Emails, text messages, witness statements if possible. If you're dealing with harassment or discrimination, file complaints with HR first. NYS Department of Labor looks more favorably on quit claims when you can show you tried to resolve the issues through proper channels. Also consider if you can get yourself fired instead - I know that sounds weird, but sometimes it's better for your unemployment claim.

I went through something similar last year and ended up having to deal with NYS Department of Labor adjudication for weeks. The hardest part was getting through to an actual person to explain my situation. I kept calling the unemployment phone line but could never get past the automated system. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual NYS Department of Labor agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Made all the difference in getting my side of the story heard during the adjudication process.

The NYS Department of Labor will definitely scrutinize quit claims more than layoffs or terminations. You'll likely face an adjudication period where they investigate your reasons for quitting. During this time, you won't receive benefits. If you do have good cause documented, make sure you file your weekly claims even during adjudication - if you're eventually approved, you'll get backpay for those weeks.

Have you considered consulting with an employment attorney before making your decision? Many offer free consultations and can help you understand if your situation might qualify as constructive dismissal or if there are legal protections you should know about. Sometimes having a lawyer send a letter to your employer about the harassment can either improve the situation or create documentation that strengthens your unemployment claim if you do end up quitting. Also, keep in mind that NYS has specific laws about hostile work environments - if you can establish that pattern, it could really help your case with the Department of Labor.