What happens after you file for unemployment with NYS Department of Labor?

After you file your initial claim with NYS Department of Labor, here's what typically happens: 1) They'll review your application and employment history 2) Contact your former employer to verify your separation reason 3) You'll need to file weekly claims even while waiting for approval 4) If there are any issues, your claim goes into adjudication which can take several weeks 5) Once approved, you'll receive your monetary determination showing your weekly benefit amount. The whole process usually takes 2-4 weeks if there are no complications.

just filed mine last week and already got my first weekly claim certification to complete, so yeah you start doing those right away even before approval

The key thing is staying on top of your weekly claims. If you miss filing a weekly claim, you can lose benefits for that week even if you're eventually approved. Also, be prepared for possible adjudication delays - if your employer contests the claim or there's any question about your eligibility, it can extend the process significantly. I'd recommend calling NYS Department of Labor if you don't hear anything after 3 weeks, but good luck getting through - their phone lines are constantly busy.

been through this process twice now and honestly it's different every time depending on your situation... first time was smooth sailing, second time got stuck in adjudication hell for 6 weeks because my employer made some bogus claim about my termination

thanks for posting this question, I'm in the same boat and was wondering the exact same thing!