ugh the whole system is so confusing for small businesses. why can't they just make it simple instead of all these different thresholds and quarterly deadlines

One thing to keep in mind is that the 4.1% rate Arnav mentioned applies to the unemployment insurance tax, but there's also a separate reemployment services fund tax that's usually around 0.075%. Small additional cost but worth budgeting for. Also, if you have any employees who work part-time or seasonal, make sure you understand how their hours count toward the 20-week threshold - it can be tricky to calculate correctly.

I was making about $950/week and got the full $504. But here's the thing - if you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to check on your claim status or resolve any issues, I found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that actually gets you connected to a real agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me hours of calling and getting hung up on.

Just remember you can work part-time and still collect some benefits as long as you don't earn more than $504 in a week. They'll reduce your benefit dollar for dollar over $504 but you can earn up to that amount without penalty.

If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor by phone to ask questions about your claim, I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me reach an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. It was really helpful when I had questions about my claim status and couldn't get through on my own.

I went through this exact situation last year when my company did layoffs. Since you were terminated due to restructuring (not for cause), you absolutely qualify for unemployment benefits. A few tips that helped me: 1) Apply online at labor.ny.gov TODAY - don't wait, 2) Have your bank account info ready for direct deposit setup, 3) Keep detailed records of all your job search activities from day one, and 4) Be prepared for the first payment to take 2-3 weeks. The weekly benefit amount is based on your previous earnings, typically around 50% of your average weekly wage up to the state maximum. Hang in there - the process can be stressful but the benefits will help cover your expenses while you look for new work.

Just remember you have to actively look for work and keep a log of your job search activities. They can ask for proof at any time so don't slack on that requirement.

I went through this same situation last year when my marketing role was eliminated. One thing I wish I'd known earlier - make sure to request your separation letter from HR if you haven't already. NYS DOL sometimes asks for it to verify the reason for separation, and having it upfront can speed up the process. Also, when you file online, take screenshots of your confirmation pages - the system occasionally glitches and having proof you submitted can save headaches later. Good luck!

Congratulations on the new job! Just make sure you keep all your employment documentation in case NYS Department of Labor needs to verify anything later. It's always better to be over-prepared when dealing with unemployment claims.

Just want to add that you should also make sure to update your contact information with NYS Department of Labor if your employment status changes, especially if you get employer-provided health insurance. They sometimes need to verify benefit eligibility and having current info helps avoid any delays or complications. Also, if this new job doesn't work out for any reason, you'll want to have everything properly documented to potentially reopen your claim later.