What is unemployment today - confused about NYS Department of Labor benefits in 2025
I'm really confused about what unemployment even means nowadays. My job got eliminated last week and everyone's telling me to file for unemployment but I don't understand what that actually gets me or how it works. Is it still the same as it was a few years ago? What exactly is unemployment today with NYS Department of Labor? I've never had to deal with this before and the website is overwhelming. Can someone explain it in simple terms?
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Zara Khan
Unemployment insurance (UI) in New York provides temporary financial assistance while you search for work. Currently, benefits range from $104 to $504 per week depending on your previous earnings. You'll need to file weekly claims, maintain a job search log with at least 3 contacts per week, and meet all eligibility requirements. The NYS Department of Labor processes everything through their online system at my.ny.gov.
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Sean Fitzgerald
•Thank you! How long does it usually take to get approved? I'm worried about paying rent next month.
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MoonlightSonata
its basically money from the state while you look for a new job but you have to jump through hoops to get it
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Mateo Gonzalez
The system has changed quite a bit since the pandemic. Now you need to register with the state job bank, complete your weekly certifications online, and document your work search activities. If you were laid off through no fault of your own, you should qualify. Just make sure to file your initial claim as soon as possible because there's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits start.
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Sean Fitzgerald
•What do you mean by work search activities? Do I have to apply to jobs I don't want?
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Mateo Gonzalez
•You need to make at least 3 job contacts per week and keep records. They can be applications, networking contacts, or attending job fairs. The contacts should be for suitable work in your field initially.
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Nia Williams
I had such a hard time getting through to someone at NYS Department of Labor when I had questions about my claim. The phone lines are always busy and their online chat barely works. I ended up using this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent. They have a video showing how it works at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI. Made the whole process so much easier than sitting on hold for hours.
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Luca Ricci
•How much does that cost? I'm already stressed about money.
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Nia Williams
•It was worth it for me to avoid the frustration. Much better than getting hung up on after waiting 2 hours like what kept happening to me.
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Aisha Mohammed
The whole unemployment system is a JOKE. They make you jump through ridiculous hoops just to get benefits you already paid into through your taxes. And don't even get me started on how long adjudication takes if they have any questions about your eligibility!
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Ethan Campbell
•I feel you on the adjudication thing. Mine took 6 weeks and they never explained why.
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Ethan Campbell
Just to add - make sure you understand the difference between being able and available vs being on standby. I got confused about that initially and it delayed my benefits. Also keep all your employment documents because they might ask for verification of your work history.
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