I'm going through this exact same situation right now! I've been hesitant about ID.me for weeks because I'm really uncomfortable with biometric data collection. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been super helpful - it's good to know there are actually alternatives even if they're not well-publicized. I think I'm going to try calling and requesting the "alternative identity verification accommodation process" like others mentioned. Even if it takes longer, having control over my personal data feels worth the wait. Has anyone who went the paper route had any issues with their documents getting lost in the mail? I'm thinking of sending everything certified mail with return receipt just to be safe.

I just went through this same process last week! After reading all the advice here, I called using the phrase "alternative identity verification accommodation process" and got through to an agent who was really helpful. She explained that while the paper route takes 4-6 weeks longer, it's completely legitimate and they process these requests regularly. One thing I learned that might help others - the agent told me that if you're currently unemployed and need benefits urgently, you can actually start the paper verification process AND still use ID.me later if you change your mind. The paper application doesn't lock you out of the online option. She said some people start with paper for peace of mind, then switch to ID.me if their financial situation becomes too tight to wait. I ended up going with the paper route and sent everything certified mail yesterday. The waiting is hard, but I feel much better about protecting my biometric data. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - this thread was incredibly helpful!

I'm a career counselor who works with pregnant women navigating job searches, and I wanted to add some practical tips for your situation. Beyond knowing that pregnancy doesn't disqualify you from unemployment benefits, here are some strategies that have helped my clients: 1) Consider temporary or contract work that might be more flexible about start dates and accommodating your timeline, 2) Look into companies that are certified as "Best Places to Work for Families" - they're typically more pregnancy-friendly, 3) Network through professional groups for working mothers in your industry, and 4) If you're in retail, many companies are hiring for seasonal positions right now which could work well with your timeline. Also, remember that you don't have to disclose your pregnancy until after a job offer is made - it's illegal for employers to ask about pregnancy status during interviews. Keep documenting all your job search activities for your weekly certifications. You're doing everything right!

As someone who works in HR, I wanted to emphasize that pregnancy is a federally protected class under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, so the NYS Department of Labor legally cannot use it as grounds to deny benefits. When you file your claim, focus on your work history and availability for employment - that's what matters. One thing I'd suggest is checking if your former employer is offering any severance or continued health insurance coverage, as maintaining health coverage during pregnancy is crucial. Also, if you haven't already, reach out to your local WIC office and look into prenatal care programs that might help with costs while you're between jobs. Your situation is completely normal and you absolutely qualify for the unemployment benefits you've earned. Stay positive and keep applying - there are employers out there who will value your skills regardless of your pregnancy status!

I work in HR and deal with these situations regularly. The confusion here is understandable because there are actually multiple programs that might apply depending on your specific circumstances. While you're correct that traditional unemployment benefits likely won't work due to the "able and available" requirement, New York has several other options worth exploring: 1. **Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI)** - If your medical leave qualifies, this provides partial wage replacement 2. **Paid Family Leave (PFL)** - If caring for a family member or bonding with a new child 3. **Workers' Compensation** - If your medical condition is work-related The key is determining which program fits your situation. I'd recommend calling the NYS Department of Labor's Disability Benefits line specifically (not the general UI line) as they can walk you through eligibility for these alternative programs. You can also check if your employer offers any supplemental disability benefits through their insurance carrier. Don't give up - there are likely options available, just not traditional unemployment benefits.

I was in a very similar situation about 8 months ago - unpaid medical leave with a guaranteed return position. After going through all the confusion and dead ends with regular UI, I ended up applying for TDI (Temporary Disability Insurance) and it was a lifesaver. The process was much smoother than I expected once I got connected to the right department. You'll need documentation from your doctor, but if your medical condition is what's preventing you from working, TDI is designed exactly for this scenario. The payments aren't as much as unemployment would be, but it's something to help cover expenses during your recovery. Don't let the paperwork intimidate you - the disability benefits staff were actually really helpful walking me through everything once I reached them.

ugh the whole system is so confusing for students. why can't they just have clear guidelines posted somewhere instead of making us guess

Maya, you should definitely apply! As a student, you can absolutely qualify for unemployment in NY as long as you meet the work history requirements (which sounds like you do with 8 months of work) and can show you're available for work that fits your schedule. The key things to remember: 1) You need to actively search for jobs that work around your class times, 2) Keep detailed records of your job applications, and 3) Be honest about your availability when you file. Since you were working 25 hours/week while in school, that shows you can balance both. Don't let your student status discourage you from applying - it's about availability for work, not whether you're in school.

Just went through this process myself! NY does backdate to your last day of work BUT only if you can prove when you lost your job and have a valid reason for the delay in filing. I had a 10-day gap between losing my job and filing my claim, and they approved the full backpay after I submitted my termination email and explained I was trying to figure out the process first. Don't stress too much - just gather your documentation (last paystub, termination notice, even emails work) and be honest about why there was a delay when you talk to them. The key is filing ASAP from now and being prepared to explain the gap.

The backdating policy can be confusing but here's what I learned from my experience: NY will backdate to your actual separation date IF you can document it properly. The key things that helped me get approved were: 1) Having my final paycheck stub showing the last pay period, 2) A clear explanation that I was gathering info before filing (they understand people need time to research), and 3) Filing as soon as I understood the process. Don't let anyone scare you about losing weeks - just make sure you have some kind of documentation of your last day and a reasonable explanation for any delay. The worst thing you can do is wait even longer to file!