What are the stipulations for unemployment benefits in NYS Department of Labor system?
I'm totally confused about all the requirements for getting unemployment benefits through NYS Department of Labor. I know I need to file weekly claims but what else? Do I have to apply for jobs every week? How many? What happens if I miss a week? I've been getting different answers from people and the my.ny.gov website is kind of overwhelming. Can someone break down the main stipulations I need to follow to keep getting my benefits?
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GalacticGuru
The main requirements are pretty straightforward once you understand them. You must file your weekly claim certification every week (even if you worked), conduct at least 3 job search activities per week and keep a log, be able and available for work, and report any earnings accurately. You also can't refuse suitable work offers. Missing a weekly claim filing will delay your payment, and you'll need to contact NYS Department of Labor to explain any gaps.
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Ravi Gupta
•Thanks! What counts as a job search activity? Does applying online count the same as going to an interview?
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Freya Pedersen
Job search activities include applying for jobs, attending interviews, going to job fairs, networking events, or using Workforce One services. Each activity needs to be documented with employer names, dates, and contact info. Online applications definitely count but make sure you're applying for jobs you're actually qualified for - NYS Department of Labor can audit your search log.
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Omar Fawaz
•I got audited last year and they wanted to see my entire job search log going back 3 months. Keep detailed records!
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Chloe Anderson
don't forget about the work search waiver stuff too, some people might be exempt from the 3 activities if they're in certain situations like temporary layoff with return date
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Diego Vargas
The whole system is so confusing honestly. I've been trying to reach someone at NYS Department of Labor for weeks to clarify some of these rules but can never get through on the phone. The automated system just hangs up on me after waiting forever.
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Anastasia Fedorov
•I had the same problem until I found Claimyr (claimyr.com). They help you get through to actual NYS Department of Labor agents when you can't reach them yourself. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Really helped me get my questions answered without the endless hold times.
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StarStrider
One thing people forget is that if you're doing any kind of work, even gig work or odd jobs, you HAVE to report it on your weekly claim. The amount doesn't matter - report everything. NYS Department of Labor will calculate how it affects your benefits but not reporting can get you in trouble for fraud.
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Ravi Gupta
•Good point! I did some freelance work last month and wasn't sure if I needed to report it since it was just a few hours.
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