Ugh the whole system is so broken. Been waiting 3 months for my appeal hearing and still nothing. At least you're only at 6 weeks - consider yourself lucky! The NYS Department of Labor is completely overwhelmed and understaffed.

I'm going through something similar right now - been waiting 5 weeks for my adjudication to complete. What I've learned from calling (took me days to get through) is that most reviews happen because employers contest the claim or there's a discrepancy in the separation reason. The rep told me that warehouse/retail layoffs are especially scrutinized because employers sometimes claim "performance issues" instead of admitting it was a true layoff. Have you tried logging into your NY.gov account to see if there are any employer protest documents? Sometimes they show up there even if you don't get notified. Also definitely keep certifying weekly like others said - that's crucial for getting your back pay when this finally resolves.

I went through something very similar when I worked at a clothing store. Got fired for repeated register shortages and tardiness issues - basically the same performance problems you mentioned. I was terrified they'd deny my claim, but NYS Department of Labor approved it without any issues. The key thing is that genuine mistakes and performance issues are treated differently than intentional misconduct. Your employer will likely receive a form asking why you were terminated, but as long as it wasn't willful violation of company policy or dishonesty, you should be fine. Don't let the fear stop you from applying - you've paid into the system and deserve those benefits when you need them!

I work in HR and deal with unemployment claims regularly. What you're describing - inventory mistakes and occasional tardiness - typically falls under "unsatisfactory performance" rather than "misconduct" in NYS. The Department of Labor usually only denies benefits for things like theft, insubordination, violating safety rules, or repeated policy violations after clear warnings. Performance issues, even when well-documented by your employer, generally don't disqualify you. File your claim as soon as possible and be honest about the reasons for termination. Even if your employer provides all their documentation, it will likely support your case since it shows performance issues rather than willful misconduct.

Hey Zara! I went through something similar when I was making about $590/week at my previous job. Just wanted to share a few practical tips that helped me: First, gather all your pay stubs from the past year before you even think you might need to file - NYS likes documentation and it speeds up the process. Second, if you do get laid off, consider setting up direct deposit right away since paper checks can take longer. Also, don't forget that you can work part-time while collecting benefits as long as you report it properly - this might help bridge the gap between your $268-ish weekly benefit and your $1200 rent. The earnings you can make without affecting benefits changes, so definitely ask about that when you file. One last thing - start networking now if possible, because the 3 weekly job search activities go by faster when you have a plan. Best of luck with everything!

I'm in a really similar situation - working retail and making about $580/week with potential layoffs coming up. This thread has been incredibly helpful! Based on what everyone's sharing, it sounds like I should expect around $250-270 per week in benefits. I'm definitely going to start gathering my pay stubs and documentation now like @Mae Bennett suggested. One thing I'm wondering about - has anyone dealt with seasonal employment affecting their base period calculation? I worked part-time retail last holiday season before getting my current full-time position, so I'm not sure how that factors into the quarterly earnings they look at. Also really appreciate the tip about Claimyr - the thought of trying to reach NYS Department of Labor by phone sounds like a nightmare!

Don't forget about SNAP benefits (food stamps) - you can apply online and if you qualify you might get benefits within a week. Also if you have kids there are additional programs available. The stress is real but you'll get through this, just take it one week at a time.

I went through this exact situation last year and it was terrifying. A few things that really helped me survive those first weeks: plasma donation if you're eligible (can make $50-100/week), task-based apps like TaskRabbit or Instacart for quick cash, and don't be ashamed to reach out to local mutual aid groups on Facebook - they often help with groceries and small bills no questions asked. Also, if you're behind on rent, contact your landlord immediately and explain the situation - many will work with you if you're proactive about communicating rather than just disappearing. The anxiety is overwhelming but you're doing everything right by filing your claims on time. This phase won't last forever even though it feels endless right now.

Make sure you keep documentation of the job offer and your refusal with the reasons why. When you do your weekly claim certification, there might be a question about job offers - just be honest about it. The fact that it requires relocation with your family situation should protect your benefits. You're still required to actively search for suitable work in your area though.

I went through something very similar when I was on unemployment benefits. A job offer that requires a 5-hour relocation from NYC to Rochester definitely falls outside the "suitable work" requirements, especially with your circumstances. The NYS Department of Labor considers factors like commuting distance, family obligations (like kids in school), and caregiving responsibilities (your elderly mom). Document everything - save the job offer email, write down your reasons for declining, and when you file your weekly claim, answer honestly if asked about job offers. You should be completely fine continuing your benefits as long as you keep actively searching for work in your local area.