Recent college grad looking for a job - can I file for NYS Department of Labor unemployment benefits?

Unfortunately, to qualify for regular unemployment benefits in New York, you need to have worked and earned wages that were subject to unemployment insurance taxes. Campus work typically doesn't count unless it was through a regular employer, not work-study. You'd need to have earned at least $2,600 in covered employment during your base period to qualify for UI benefits. Since you just graduated, you likely don't meet the earnings requirement.

been there! graduated two years ago and went through the same thing. you cant get regular unemployment but you might want to look into other programs. also make sure you're documenting your job search activities anyway because if you do get work and then lose it later, NYS Department of Labor will want to see that you were actively looking

Check if your campus work was actually regular employment vs work-study. If you were a regular employee at the university (like in the dining hall or library as a non-work-study position), those wages might count toward your base period. You can request a wage transcript from NYS Department of Labor to see if any of your earnings were reported. Also look into SNAP benefits and other assistance programs while you're job hunting.

I had a similar issue trying to reach NYS Department of Labor about my wage history when I was between jobs. Spent hours on hold and kept getting disconnected. Finally found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me through to a real person at NYS Department of Labor in like 10 minutes. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Might be worth checking out if you need to talk to someone about your specific situation.

The unemployment system is just broken for people in transition! I graduated during COVID and it was a nightmare trying to figure out what I qualified for. The whole system assumes everyone has this linear work history when real life doesn't work that way. At least now the job market is better than it was then, but still frustrating.

I'm in a similar boat - graduated last year and went through this exact same confusion about unemployment eligibility. One thing that helped me was looking into temporary staffing agencies while job hunting. They often have entry-level positions that can bridge the gap and start building your work history for future unemployment claims. Also, don't overlook your college's career services - mine had resources for recent grads that I didn't know about until months after graduation. The job market is tough but you'll get through it!

Hey Connor! I went through something similar when I graduated from college a few years back. One thing I'd recommend is checking if you qualify for any state or local assistance programs while you're job hunting - things like SNAP, Medicaid, or even local food banks can help stretch your budget. Also, consider looking into gig work or freelance opportunities in your field while you search for full-time positions. Even though it's not traditional employment, it can provide some income and relevant experience. Your alumni network might also be helpful - reach out to SUNY Albany career services and see if they have job placement assistance for recent grads. The job market is definitely tough right now, but don't get discouraged! Document everything you're doing in your job search because that organization will serve you well once you do land something.

I feel for you Connor! I was in almost the exact same situation when I graduated from college. One thing that might help is checking with your local One-Stop Career Center (American Job Centers) - they often have resources specifically for recent graduates, including job search assistance, skills training programs, and sometimes even temporary work opportunities. Even though you can't get regular unemployment benefits, you might qualify for other workforce development programs that could provide some financial assistance while you're training or job searching. Also, don't forget to check if you're eligible for any COVID-related assistance programs that might still be available for recent grads facing employment challenges. The transition from college to the workforce is tough enough without the added financial stress - hang in there and keep networking!

Hey Connor! I was in your exact shoes about 3 years ago - SUNY graduate with just work-study experience trying to figure out the unemployment system. Unfortunately, as others have mentioned, you likely won't qualify for regular UI benefits without substantial covered wages. But here's what I wish someone had told me: look into your county's workforce development programs! Many counties in NY have special programs for recent college graduates that include job placement assistance, skills training, and sometimes even stipends or support while you're in training. Also, if you haven't already, register with NYS Jobs (jobs.ny.gov) and set up job alerts - it's the state's official job board and some employers specifically recruit through there. The waiting and uncertainty is really hard, but this phase won't last forever. Keep documenting your search activities like others suggested, and don't hesitate to take temporary or contract work to start building that employment history. Good luck!

I'm a recent grad too and just wanted to add that you should definitely check if your state has any recent graduate support programs. Some states have special initiatives for new college graduates that provide job search assistance, networking events, and sometimes even small stipends or loan deferment help while you're actively seeking employment. Also, don't overlook reaching out directly to companies you're interested in, even if they don't have posted openings - sometimes they have upcoming positions that aren't advertised yet. I know it's tough right now, but try to stay positive and use this time to also build skills through free online courses or certifications that might make you more competitive. The investment in yourself during this transition period can really pay off when you do land that first job!

Connor, I completely understand your frustration! I graduated from college about 18 months ago and faced the exact same situation. While you likely won't qualify for regular unemployment benefits without sufficient covered wages, don't give up hope. Here are some things that really helped me during my job search: First, check if you qualify for SNAP benefits or other assistance programs - every bit helps with expenses. Second, consider signing up with multiple temp agencies in your area, as they often have entry-level positions and the wages will count toward future unemployment eligibility. Third, reach out to your college's career services office - many schools offer lifetime career support to alumni. Finally, look into your local library's resources - many offer free resume help, interview prep, and even job search workshops. The transition from college to career is tough, but you're not alone in this struggle. Keep documenting your job search activities and stay persistent - you've got this!

Hey Connor! I just went through this exact situation last year after graduating from college with minimal work history. Unfortunately, you're right that regular unemployment benefits require substantial covered wages that most college students don't have. However, don't overlook checking if any of your campus work was actually regular employment rather than work-study - sometimes dining services, library positions, or other campus jobs are actual W-2 employment that could count. Also, I'd highly recommend looking into your local Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs - they often have specific resources and funding for recent graduates, including job training programs that sometimes provide stipends while you're learning new skills. Another option is to check with 211 (dial 2-1-1) for local assistance programs that might help with basic expenses while you're job hunting. The financial stress during this transition is real, but there are more resources available than you might think. Keep your chin up - this phase is temporary and you'll get through it!

Connor, I'm a recent grad from RIT and went through almost the identical situation last year! The unemployment eligibility requirements are definitely frustrating for new grads. One thing that really helped me was applying for entry-level positions at temp-to-hire agencies - companies like Kelly Services, Manpower, and Robert Half often have contracts that can turn permanent. Also, check if your area has any recent graduate job fairs or networking events through local chambers of commerce. In the meantime, consider looking into your county's social services office for emergency assistance programs - many have short-term help for people actively job searching. Don't forget to leverage LinkedIn too - I actually got my first job through a connection I made there with another SUNY alum. The struggle is real but you'll get through this transition period! Keep applying and stay consistent with your search routine.

Hey Connor! I just graduated from Syracuse last semester and went through this exact same confusion about unemployment eligibility. Unfortunately, as others have confirmed, you likely won't qualify for regular UI benefits without sufficient covered employment history. But here's something that really helped me - I ended up finding a part-time position through my college's alumni mentorship program that I didn't even know existed until after graduation. Many SUNY schools have these programs where recent grads can connect with alumni for both job opportunities and career advice. Also, while you're job hunting, consider signing up for gig work like DoorDash or Uber Eats if you have a car - it's not ideal but it can provide some immediate income while you search for something in your field. I know the financial stress with student loans looming is overwhelming, but this transition period really is temporary. Keep documenting everything you're doing in your job search and don't be afraid to follow up on applications after a week or two. You've got this!

Connor, I'm a career counselor who works with recent graduates, and I want to emphasize something important that others have touched on - while you likely won't qualify for regular unemployment benefits, there are several safety net programs specifically designed for people in your situation. First, definitely apply for SNAP benefits if you haven't already - recent grads with limited income often qualify. Second, look into your local Department of Social Services for emergency assistance programs - many counties have short-term financial help for people actively job searching. Third, consider reaching out to local nonprofits that focus on workforce development - organizations like Goodwill Industries often have job placement programs with wraparound support services. Also, don't underestimate the value of informational interviews - reach out to SUNY Albany alumni working in your field of interest and ask for 15-20 minutes of their time to learn about their career path. Many people are willing to help fellow alumni and it's a great way to build your network. The transition from college to career is one of the most challenging periods, but you're taking all the right steps by researching your options and staying proactive!