Quit my job at retail store - am I eligible for unemployment benefits in New York?

Quitting doesn't automatically disqualify you, but it makes things more complicated. You need to prove you had 'good cause' for leaving. Hostile work environment could qualify if you can document it. Did you file any complaints with HR or keep records of the hostile behavior?

The NYS Department of Labor will investigate your reason for quitting during the adjudication process. You'll need to provide detailed information about why you left and any evidence you have. Hostile work environment is considered good cause but you have to prove it was unreasonable.

I had trouble reaching anyone at NYS Department of Labor when I needed to explain my quit situation. The phone lines are always busy and it's really frustrating when you're waiting for your claim to be approved. I ended up using this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI. Made the whole process way less stressful.

ugh the unemployment system is so messed up... they make you jump through hoops even when you have legitimate reasons for leaving a toxic job. hopefully they approve your claim but be prepared for it to take forever

You should still file your claim right away even if you're not sure. The worst they can do is deny it, and then you can appeal if you have good documentation of the hostile work environment.