What is the current level of unemployment - NYS Department of Labor numbers confusing me
I keep seeing different unemployment rates in the news and I'm trying to figure out what the actual current level of unemployment is in New York. My cousin says it's around 3.8% but then I saw something saying it was higher. Does NYS Department of Labor publish the official numbers somewhere? I'm asking because I'm wondering if now is a good time to file for unemployment or if there are too many people already claiming benefits. Also does the unemployment rate affect how long it takes to get approved for benefits?
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Sean Flanagan
The NYS Department of Labor releases monthly unemployment statistics on their website. As of December 2024, New York's unemployment rate was 4.1%, which is slightly above the national average of 3.7%. However, the unemployment rate doesn't really affect your eligibility for benefits or processing times. If you're laid off or lose your job through no fault of your own, you should file immediately regardless of the current rate.
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Anastasia Kozlov
•Thanks! So it doesn't matter how many other people are filing claims? I was worried the system would be overloaded.
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Zara Mirza
i think its actually lower than that maybe 3.5% but honestly who knows with these government numbers lol. i filed last month when i got laid off and it took like 2 weeks to get approved so not too bad
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NebulaNinja
The key thing to understand is that the unemployment rate and unemployment claims processing are two different systems. The rate measures people actively looking for work, while your claim is based on your individual employment history and reason for separation. NYS Department of Labor processes claims based on eligibility criteria, not current unemployment levels. If you need to file, don't wait - there's a waiting week anyway.
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Luca Russo
•Wait there's still a waiting week? I thought they got rid of that during COVID
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NebulaNinja
•The waiting week was suspended during the pandemic but it was reinstated in 2023. So yes, you won't get paid for your first week of unemployment.
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Nia Wilson
I had trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor when I needed to check on my claim status last year. Kept calling but the lines were always busy. Finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to an actual agent. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Made the whole process so much easier than sitting on hold for hours.
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Anastasia Kozlov
•Interesting, I've never heard of that. Did it actually work to get you connected faster?
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Nia Wilson
•Yeah it worked really well. I was able to get through within like 20 minutes instead of calling for days and never getting through.
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Mateo Sanchez
just file already if you lost your job! the unemployment rate thing doesnt matter for your individual situation. worst case they say no and you appeal it
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Aisha Mahmood
I remember when unemployment was over 10% back in 2020... those were scary times. Now 4% seems pretty manageable honestly. Good luck with your claim!
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