Need help filing for NY unemployment after COVID illness - missed deadline?

You don't need a lawyer to file for unemployment in New York. The process is designed to be completed without legal assistance. Since you were sick, you might qualify for backdating your claim due to good cause. When you apply, you'll need to explain your illness prevented you from filing earlier. Here's what you should do: 1. Go to unemployment.labor.ny.gov to start your application 2. Have your employment history for the last 18 months ready 3. When asked why you're filing late, explain your COVID illness (medical documentation helps) 4. For technical help, call the NYSDOL at 888-209-8124 If you're really struggling with the website, local libraries and career centers often have staff who can help with applications.

my cousin waited 2 months to file bc of covid and they still let her backdate it. just be honest about why u couldnt file earlier

The NYSDOL has specific provisions for backdating claims when you have a good cause like illness. COVID definitely counts! You'll need to document your circumstances when filing. One important thing: when you finally get through to file, make sure to answer "YES" when asked if you want to backdate your claim. They'll ask for the specific date you became unemployed and why you couldn't file sooner. Also, save ALL your medical documentation. If they question your backdate request, having proof of your illness will make the process go much more smoothly.

After being sick with COVID myself last year, I spent WEEKS trying to reach the NY unemployment office about backdating my claim. The phone lines were constantly busy and I kept getting disconnected. I finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent without waiting for hours. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE Once I finally got through to a real person, they were able to process my backdate request in a single call. The agent even helped me correct some mistakes on my application that might have caused delays. Definitely worth looking into if you're struggling to reach someone.

they probably WONT EVEN ASK for proof!! when i applied late they just took my word for it that i was sick. the system is so backed up they dont have time to verify everyones excuse. just be honest and youll be fine

I went through this in January... you don't need a lawyer but you DO need patience lol. The website kept freezing when I tried to apply and I had to start over 3 times. Make sure you set aside at least an hour when you're not going to be interrupted. And write down all your answers somewhere in case it crashes again!!

I understand your situation completely. The NY unemployment system can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with illness. I was in a similar situation last year after a hospitalization. Your best resource is the NYSDOL's Backdated Claim Request process. You'll need to clearly document that you had "good cause" for delayed filing, which illness certainly provides. Once you start your regular claim, you can request backdating by calling the claims center or submitting a secure message through your online account. Regarding documentation: while they don't always request it initially, ALWAYS keep your documentation ready. This includes: - Medical records showing your COVID diagnosis - Dates of illness/incapacity - Any communication with employers during this time Don't pay for legal help yet - the process is designed for self-navigation, and free help is available through your local Department of Labor office if needed.

Just a quick update on the NY unemployment system in 2025: they've actually improved the online application a lot recently. They now have a specific section for COVID-related claims and backdating requests built right into the regular application process. It asks specifically about illness and other good cause reasons for delayed filing. They've also added a virtual assistant chat function that can answer basic questions while you're filling out the application. It's not perfect, but it's definitely better than a few years ago when the system was constantly crashing. One more tip: if you have any friends or family who can sit with you while you complete the application, that often helps reduce the stress of the process.

btw my brother had to do this and he just went to the library and the librarian helped him fill it all out for free. might be worth checking if ur local library does this