Where do I apply for unemployment benefits in New York - need help finding the right website
I just got laid off from my job at a restaurant yesterday and I need to file for unemployment but I'm completely lost. I've never done this before and don't know where to start. Is there a specific website I need to use? Do I call somewhere? I heard there's something called my.ny.gov but when I go there it's confusing with all these different departments. Can someone please tell me exactly where to apply for unemployment benefits? I'm stressed about paying rent next month and need to get this started ASAP.
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Omar Zaki
You need to go to my.ny.gov and create an account there first. Once you're logged in, look for the NYS Department of Labor section and click on 'File for Unemployment Insurance Benefits.' The application is all online now. Make sure you have your Social Security card, driver's license, and your last employer's information ready before you start. You'll also need your banking info if you want direct deposit.
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Freya Thomsen
•Thank you! Do I need to wait a certain amount of time after being laid off or can I apply right away?
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AstroAce
Apply as soon as possible because there's a one week waiting period anyway. The sooner you file your initial claim, the sooner that week starts counting. Also make sure you keep track of when you file because you'll need to do weekly claims every week after that to actually get paid.
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Chloe Martin
been there! the my.ny.gov site can be a pain but just keep trying if it kicks you out. sometimes the servers get overloaded. also make sure you write down your confirmation number when you submit
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Diego Rojas
If you're having trouble getting through on the website, I actually found a service called Claimyr that helped me reach a NYS Department of Labor agent when I was stuck. You can check it out at claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Really saved me time when I couldn't get through the regular phone lines.
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Freya Thomsen
•Is that legit? I don't want to get scammed when I'm already stressed about money.
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Diego Rojas
•Yeah it's real, they just help you get through to the actual NYS Department of Labor people. But honestly try the website first since that's free and works for most people.
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Anastasia Sokolov
Just want to add that you should apply even if you think you might not qualify. Let them determine eligibility rather than assuming you don't qualify. The worst they can say is no, but you might be surprised.
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