I'm going through the same thing right now - filed 3 weeks ago and still showing "adjudication in progress." From what I've learned lurking in these forums, it seems like reduced hours/constructive dismissal cases often take longer because they have to verify with your employer that the hour reduction was significant enough to qualify you for benefits. The waiting is absolutely nerve-wracking, especially when you're counting on that income. I've been keeping detailed records of my reduced schedule and any communication with my former employer just in case they need additional documentation. Hang in there!

I'm currently dealing with adjudication too - going on week 4 now. What I've learned from calling multiple times is that they're likely verifying your employment details and the circumstances around your hour reduction with your former employer. The DOL has to confirm that the reduction was substantial enough (usually needs to be a reduction of more than 20% of your normal hours) and that it wasn't your fault. They also check if you made reasonable efforts to get more hours before leaving. The frustrating part is they don't give you updates during the process - you just have to wait for the determination letter. Keep filing your weekly claims though, because if approved you'll get backpay for all eligible weeks during adjudication.

The NYS Department of Labor portal is confusing honestly. I got approved but it took me forever to figure out where to find the actual confirmation. They really need to make the interface clearer about what each status means!!!

I'm going through the same thing right now! Just filed last week and the waiting is nerve-wracking. From what I've read here and elsewhere, the key things to look for are: 1) A weekly benefit amount showing up (not $0), 2) No "pending issues" or red flags in your claim status, and 3) The monetary determination letter that should appear in your documents section. The first payment delay seems pretty normal from what everyone's saying - the state system just takes time to process everything. Keep doing those weekly certifications though, that's important even while waiting for approval!

I just went through this exact same frustration last week! What finally worked for me was logging into my.ny.gov and going to the "Documents" section under unemployment services - there was a PDF called "Initial Claim Acknowledgment" that had my account number right on the first page. I had completely overlooked it before because it was just listed as a generic document name. Also, if you're still having trouble, try clearing your browser cache and cookies before logging back in - sometimes the system glitches and doesn't display all your account information properly. The account number is usually formatted as UI followed by some numbers (like UI1234567). Once you find it, definitely screenshot it or write it down somewhere safe because you'll need it every week for certifications. Don't worry about the filing deadline - as long as you file within a reasonable time and explain any delays, they're usually understanding about technical difficulties with their system.

I just wanted to share another method that worked for me when I couldn't find my account number anywhere - if you have the NYS DOL mobile app installed, sometimes the account information shows up more clearly there than on the desktop website. The app interface is a bit different and might display your account details in a more obvious spot. Also, if you received any automated phone calls from NYS DOL after filing your claim, they sometimes include your account number in the voicemail message. I know it's frustrating when such an important piece of information seems to disappear, but don't give up! Between all the suggestions everyone has shared here, you should be able to track it down. The system definitely needs better user experience design - having your account number prominently displayed on the main dashboard would save everyone so much hassle!

I went through something similar with my uncle last year. He was 65, collecting social security, and got let go from his part-time job at a grocery store. NYS Department of Labor approved his claim without any issues. The key thing is that "retirement" doesn't mean you can't or don't want to work - it just means you're collecting social security benefits. As long as your dad can honestly say he's able, available, and actively seeking work (which it sounds like he can), he should qualify. The social security will reduce his weekly benefit amount but won't eliminate it entirely. He should definitely apply ASAP since benefits are calculated from when you file, not when you were laid off. Also, make sure he has all his employment records from the retail store ready - pay stubs, termination notice, etc. Good luck to your dad!

I work at a senior center and see this situation all the time! Your dad is definitely eligible to apply. The most important thing to know is that NYS Department of Labor looks at current ability and availability to work, not retirement status. Since he was actively employed part-time until the layoff, that's actually great evidence that he's able and willing to work. One tip: when he files online, make sure he selects "laid off" as his reason for unemployment rather than anything that might suggest voluntary retirement. Also, he should start documenting his job search activities right away - even if it's just browsing job postings online or visiting potential employers. NYS DOL requires proof of work search efforts for each week you claim benefits. The combination of unemployment plus reduced social security should help bridge the gap until he finds another position.

good for you getting off the system! I've been trying to find work for 8 months now and still nothing. The job search requirements are such a pain.

Just want to add that if your part-time job has irregular hours or you're not sure about the full-time conversion timeline, you might want to keep your claim open initially and just report your part-time earnings each week. NYS allows you to work part-time while collecting reduced benefits as long as you report all wages honestly. This way you have a safety net if the full-time position doesn't materialize. Once you're confident about steady full-time work, then do the proper closure process everyone mentioned above.