One thing I learned the hard way is to keep detailed records of EVERYTHING - screenshots of your weekly certifications, copies of job applications, correspondence with employers, etc. I had a situation where the DOL claimed I missed a week of certification, but I had screenshots proving I submitted it on time. Without that documentation, it would have been my word against their system. Also, if you're laid off due to downsizing like you mentioned, make sure you get something in writing from your employer stating the reason for separation. It can save you a lot of headaches if there are any questions later about whether you were actually fired for cause.

Based on everyone's helpful responses, I'd also add that timing is crucial - make sure you file your claim as soon as possible after becoming unemployed, even if you're not 100% sure about all the details yet. There's a waiting period anyway, and delays in filing can cost you benefits. Also, if you do get denied for any reason, don't panic - you have the right to appeal within 30 days. The appeals process gives you a chance to present your case to an administrative law judge, and many initial denials get overturned on appeal. Keep all your documentation organized from day one because you'll need it if you have to go through the appeals process.

Just want to add that when you do file, make sure you're ready to start your weekly claims right away and keep track of your job search activities. NYS Department of Labor requires you to be actively looking for work and you'll need to document that.

Don't beat yourself up about missing those 6 weeks - it's a really common mistake! The important thing is to file NOW before you lose any more time. When you apply online, you'll put your actual layoff date from 6 weeks ago as your separation date, but your benefit payments will only start from the week you file the claim. Also make sure you have your employer's info handy (company name, address, reason for separation) and be prepared to start doing your weekly certifications right away. The sooner you get this process started, the sooner you can start receiving benefits while you continue your job search.

I went through something similar last year. The key thing is to be completely honest when you file your claim and during any interviews. Don't try to hide the no call no show - they'll find out anyway when they contact your employer. Focus on documenting the toxic work environment as much as possible. Even without medical records for the panic attacks, if you have any text messages, emails, or coworkers who witnessed the hostile conditions, gather all of that. I also recommend looking into whether your state has any mental health resources that might help you get documentation retroactively. The process isn't fun, but you might be surprised - sometimes employers don't fight unemployment claims as hard as you'd expect, especially if they know their workplace had issues.

I'm in a similar boat right now and just wanted to share what I've learned from talking to others who've been through this. The no call no show definitely complicates things, but it's not an automatic disqualification like some people think. When you file, they'll ask you to explain why you left your job - be honest about the panic attacks and toxic environment, but also acknowledge that you handled it poorly by not communicating. NYS DOL seems to care more about whether you had legitimate reasons for your actions rather than whether you followed proper procedures. I'd also suggest starting to document everything you can remember about the toxic workplace now while it's fresh - dates, specific incidents, any witnesses. Even if you don't have medical records for the panic attacks, a detailed timeline of what was happening at work that led to your mental health issues could help your case. The worst they can do is say no, and then you can appeal with more evidence.

I'm currently on week 8 of my regular UI benefits and this discussion has been incredibly eye-opening! I had absolutely no idea that Extended Benefits were still available - I thought all unemployment extensions ended years ago with the pandemic programs. The NYSDOL website is completely unhelpful for finding this kind of crucial information. It's really reassuring to read all these real experiences from people who have successfully navigated the EB system. The fact that it provides up to 13 additional weeks after regular UI is exhausted could be a lifesaver if I'm still job hunting when I reach week 26. I'm in the tech industry and the market is still pretty competitive, so having that safety net is incredibly valuable. I'm definitely going to start implementing everyone's advice early - taking screenshots of my account, preparing for the transition around week 24, and planning to use that Claimyr service to speak with an actual NYSDOL agent before my regular benefits run out. The stories about communication gaps and system glitches are concerning, but it's clear that persistence and continuing to certify every single week is the key to success. Thank you all for sharing your experiences and creating this amazing resource. This thread contains more useful, practical information than I could find anywhere on any official government website. It's incredible how community members looking out for each other can provide better guidance than the actual agencies responsible for these programs!

I'm on week 15 of my regular UI benefits and honestly this thread has been more helpful than hours of trying to navigate the NYSDOL website! I had been getting really anxious about what happens after 26 weeks because everywhere I looked online just talked about pandemic programs that ended years ago. Reading everyone's experiences with the Extended Benefits program is such a relief - knowing that there are potentially 13 additional weeks available if you exhaust regular UI is huge. I'm in retail management and the job market has been brutal, so that extra time could make all the difference. I love all the practical tips people have shared here, especially about starting to prepare around week 24 and taking screenshots of everything in your account. The Claimyr service sounds like a game-changer too - I've tried calling NYSDOL a few times already just for other questions and it's impossible to get through. One thing I'm wondering about - has anyone had experience with EB if you've had to move during your unemployment period? I might need to relocate within NY state for family reasons, and I want to make sure that won't complicate the transition from regular UI to extended benefits. I know I'd need to update my address with NYSDOL, but hoping it wouldn't affect eligibility for the 13-week extension. Thanks to everyone for sharing such detailed experiences - you're helping way more people than you probably realize!

I thought aflac covered everything!! this is disappointing to learn. I've been paying them forever and now when I actually need help they don't cover unemployment? seems like a rip off

I went through something similar when I got laid off earlier this year. Aflac doesn't cover unemployment, but don't overlook other benefits you might have. Check if your former employer offers any severance, COBRA health insurance continuation, or if you have any unused vacation/sick time that gets paid out. Also look into local food banks and utility assistance programs while you're between jobs - every little bit helps stretch your unemployment benefits further.