What does it mean to file for unemployment with NYS Department of Labor?
I'm totally new to this whole unemployment thing and feeling pretty lost. My manager told me yesterday that my position is being eliminated next week due to budget cuts. She mentioned I should 'file for unemployment' but honestly I have no idea what that even means or where to start. Is it like applying for a job? Do I need to go somewhere in person? I've never dealt with NYS Department of Labor before and don't know what filing for unemployment actually involves. Can someone explain this in simple terms?
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Ravi Sharma
Filing for unemployment means you're applying for unemployment insurance benefits through NYS Department of Labor. It's basically requesting weekly payments while you look for a new job. You'll need to create an account on labor.ny.gov and complete an application with your work history, reason for job loss, and personal info. Once approved, you'll file weekly claims to continue receiving benefits. The whole process is done online now - no need to visit an office.
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Isabella Santos
•Thank you! So I can do everything online? How long does the application take to fill out?
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Freya Larsen
The initial application usually takes about 30-45 minutes if you have all your info ready. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment details for the past 18 months including employer names, addresses, dates worked, and reason you left each job. After you file, NYS Department of Labor will review your claim which can take 1-3 weeks. During this time they might contact your employer to verify information.
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Omar Hassan
•Just wanted to add that you should file as soon as possible after your last day of work. There's usually a one week waiting period before benefits start, so don't delay the application.
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Chloe Taylor
ugh the NYS Department of Labor website is such a pain to navigate!! i filed last month and it took me forever to figure out where everything was. make sure you write down your login info because if you get locked out its a nightmare to reset
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Ravi Sharma
•The website has definitely improved since they updated it last year, but yes, definitely save your login credentials somewhere safe.
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ShadowHunter
If you run into issues getting through to NYS Department of Labor by phone, I had success using a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me reach an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Was really helpful when I needed to check on my adjudication status and couldn't get through the regular phone lines.
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Diego Ramirez
•Never heard of that before but might be worth trying if the phone system is as bad as people say it is.
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Anastasia Sokolov
One thing they don't tell you upfront - you'll need to do job search activities and report them when you file your weekly claims. NYS Department of Labor requires proof that you're actively looking for work. Keep a log of applications, interviews, networking events, etc.
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Isabella Santos
•How many job search activities do I need to do each week? Is there a minimum number?
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Ravi Sharma
•Currently it's 3 work search activities per week. This can include applying for jobs, attending job fairs, networking events, or meeting with career counselors.
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