What is unemployment based on - confused about NYS Department of Labor eligibility requirements

NYS Department of Labor bases your eligibility on several factors. First, you need sufficient work history - they look at your base period which is usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file. You need to have earned at least $2,600 in your base period and worked in at least 2 quarters. Your weekly benefit amount is calculated based on your highest quarter earnings divided by 26, up to the maximum benefit amount. You also have to be able and available for work and actively searching for employment.

yeah its based on how much you made in your highest earning quarter during the base period, they divide that by 26 to get your weekly amount but theres also a minimum and maximum so you might not get exactly that calculation

The key requirements are: 1) You must be unemployed through no fault of your own (laid off, reduction in force, etc.), 2) You must have sufficient wage credits in your base period, 3) You must be physically able to work, 4) You must be available for work, and 5) You must actively search for work. NYS Department of Labor also requires you to register with the job search system and complete work search activities each week. If you quit your job or were fired for misconduct, you'll likely be disqualified.

I had trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor when I needed clarification on my base period calculation. If you can't get through on the phone, I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helps you actually connect with an agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Really helped me get my questions answered when the regular phone lines were jammed.

Also keep in mind that if you worked in multiple states, things get more complicated. NYS Department of Labor will coordinate with other states through interstate claims, but it can delay processing. And if you're on standby status (temporary layoff expecting to return), the rules are slightly different - you don't have to do job searches but you do have to remain available.

The whole system is so confusing! I wish they would just tell you upfront if you qualify instead of making you jump through hoops. At least once you're approved the weekly claims are pretty straightforward.