What do I need to file for NYS Department of Labor unemployment benefits?
I just got laid off from my job at a manufacturing plant and I'm completely lost about what I need to get together to file for unemployment. This is my first time dealing with the NYS Department of Labor system and I have no idea what documents or information they're going to ask for. I keep hearing people talk about needing your Social Security number and work history, but what else? Do I need pay stubs? Tax returns? My supervisor said something about needing my separation notice but I haven't gotten anything yet. I'm really stressed about missing some requirement and getting my claim delayed. Can someone walk me through exactly what I need to have ready before I start the application?
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Oscar O'Neil
Here's what you'll need for your NYS Department of Labor unemployment claim: Your Social Security number, driver's license or state ID, complete work history for the past 18 months (employer names, addresses, dates worked, and reason for separation), your most recent pay stub, and banking information for direct deposit. If you were laid off, you'll also need any separation paperwork your employer provides. Don't worry if you don't have everything perfect - you can start the application and add details later if needed.
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LongPeri
•Thank you! Do I need to wait for my employer to send me something official or can I file right away?
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Sara Hellquiem
File as soon as possible! You don't need to wait for your employer to send separation papers. The NYS Department of Labor will contact them directly to verify your employment and reason for separation. The key is getting your claim started within the first week after your last day of work. You can always update information later, but delays in filing can cost you benefits.
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Charlee Coleman
•This is so true. I waited two weeks thinking I needed paperwork from HR and it delayed my whole claim.
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Liv Park
ugh the whole process is such a nightmare. I've been trying to get through to someone at NYS Department of Labor for weeks about my claim status and their phone system just hangs up on you after being on hold forever. Even when you have all the right documents they find ways to make it complicated.
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Leeann Blackstein
•I had the same problem with calling them! I actually found this service called Claimyr that helps you get through to NYS Department of Labor agents. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Saved me hours of frustration trying to reach someone about my adjudication issue.
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Ryder Greene
Just to add - make sure you have your banking info ready for direct deposit setup. It's way faster than waiting for checks in the mail. Also if you worked for multiple employers in the past year and a half, try to get all those details together even if some were part-time or temporary jobs.
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LongPeri
•Good point about the banking info. Should I use checking or savings for the direct deposit?
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Oscar O'Neil
•Either works, but checking is usually easier since that's where most people handle their regular bills anyway.
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Emma Wilson
Don't stress too much about having everything perfect before you start! I was in the same situation last year when my company had layoffs. The NYS Department of Labor website actually walks you through each step and tells you exactly what info they need as you go. The main things are your SSN, ID, work history for the last 18 months, and basic info about why you're unemployed. If you can't remember exact dates or addresses for previous jobs, you can estimate and update later. The important thing is getting your application submitted quickly so your benefit year starts. You've got this!
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Amara Nwosu
•Thanks Emma, this really helps calm my nerves! I was definitely overthinking it. Quick question - when you say "benefit year starts" does that mean if I file today my benefits would start from today, or does it go back to when I was actually laid off? I got laid off on Monday so I'm wondering if those few days matter.
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