From what I understand, it's 3 work search activities per week in NY. But here's what I learned the hard way - make sure you understand what actually counts! Things like just browsing job sites don't qualify, but actually submitting applications, attending virtual job fairs, or doing informational interviews do. I keep a detailed log with dates, company names, contact info, and exactly what I did. Also recommend checking the NYS DOL website regularly because they sometimes update the requirements or clarify what activities are acceptable.

I went through this same confusion when I first started collecting! The 3 work search activities per week requirement is correct, but I'd also recommend calling your local One-Stop Career Center if you have questions about what counts. They're usually more helpful than trying to get through to the main NYS DOL phone lines. Also, don't forget that things like updating your resume, attending workshops (even virtual ones), or networking on LinkedIn can count as valid activities too. The key is just documenting everything properly with dates and details in case they ask for your records later.

Moving within state is fine but PLEASE update your address immediately. I forgot to update mine when I moved and it caused a delay in my benefits because they couldn't verify my identity during a routine check.

Just went through this exact situation! Moved from Manhattan to Albany in January while on unemployment. The process is super straightforward - just log into your NY.gov account and update your address in the "Personal Information" section. I also updated it during my weekly certification just to be safe. My benefits continued without any interruption. The only thing to keep in mind is that you still need to be actively searching for work and available to accept employment, so make sure you can realistically commute to job opportunities in your field. Since you mentioned you can commute back to NYC if needed, you should be totally fine. Good luck with the move!

Just to add - the numbers also fluctuate seasonally. Construction workers, hospitality, retail all have different patterns throughout the year which affects the total claimant count.

The seasonal aspect is really important to consider. I'm in hospitality myself and noticed that claim numbers tend to spike after the holiday season and during slower tourist periods. From what I've observed, NYC alone probably accounts for a huge chunk of those statewide numbers given how many service industry workers cycle through unemployment benefits during off-seasons. The system definitely feels more strained during these peak periods.

Thanks everyone for the detailed info! As someone new to this whole unemployment system, this thread is incredibly helpful. @Dmitry Ivanov that breakdown is exactly what I needed - gonna screenshot that for reference. Quick follow up question: when you report part-time income, do you report gross or net earnings? And does freelance/contract work count the same as regular part-time employment? I do some web dev consulting on the side and want to make sure I'm reporting everything correctly.

@Andre Dupont since you mentioned you're in tech, just wanted to add that remote freelance work gets tricky with the reporting. I learned this the hard way - even if you invoice a client in January but don't get paid until February, you report the income for the week you actually receive payment, not when you did the work. Also, if you're doing any 1099 work, set aside money for taxes since they don't withhold anything. The state will still reduce your benefits based on gross income even though you'll owe taxes on it later. Keep every email, invoice, and payment record - unemployment audits for tech freelancers are becoming more common.

Just went through this last month! The trick is to be super persistent with calling KeyBank at 1-866-295-2955 - I called literally 15 times over 3 days before getting through to someone who could actually help. When you do get through, ask them to check if your card was "returned to sender" - that's what happened to mine even though my address was correct. They can expedite a replacement for free if the original was returned. Also make sure to verify your full legal name EXACTLY as it appears on your unemployment application - even spacing matters! Got my replacement in 5 business days after that call. Don't let them tell you to "just wait" - be polite but firm that you need immediate help accessing your benefits! 🙏

Ugh I'm in the same boat! Filed in December and still waiting for my card. The most frustrating part is watching the money pile up online but not being able to buy groceries 😭 Has anyone tried going to one of those check cashing places to see if they can help? I'm getting desperate here and considering any options at this point. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences - at least I know I'm not alone in this mess!