good for you getting some work! better than sitting around doing nothing while collecting benefits

This is really helpful information! I've been on unemployment for about 6 weeks now and have been hesitant to take on any part-time work because I was worried about losing my benefits entirely. The way everyone explained the partial benefit calculation makes so much sense - I had no idea NYS Department of Labor actually encourages part-time work while job searching. I'm definitely going to start applying for some part-time positions now since I know I can still receive reduced benefits. Thanks for sharing your experiences, especially about the importance of reporting everything honestly!

One thing to keep in mind is that if your workers comp case gets resolved and you're still unable to return to your original job, you might then be eligible for unemployment benefits. Also, if your injury is permanent and affects your ability to do your old job, there might be vocational rehabilitation benefits available through workers comp that could help you train for new work. The timing of when you can apply for UI versus when workers comp ends is crucial.

I went through something similar when I injured my shoulder at my manufacturing job. You're right that you generally can't collect both at the same time, but there are a few things worth knowing. First, make sure you're getting the maximum workers comp rate - sometimes they calculate it wrong initially. Second, if your employer offers you modified duty that you can't physically do, document everything because that could potentially open the door to UI benefits later. Also, check if you qualify for any temporary assistance programs through DSS while you're waiting. The income gap between workers comp and your regular pay is brutal, I know. Keep all your medical documentation organized because you'll need it when transitioning between benefits systems.

this whole system is ridiculous!! you're literally selling your BLOOD to survive and they want to penalize you for it? meanwhile rich people get tax breaks for breathing. the unemployment office makes everything so complicated on purpose to discourage people from claiming what they're entitled to

I work at a plasma center and can confirm that donation payments are considered reportable income by most state unemployment agencies, including New York. What you're receiving is compensation for your time and biological material, which makes it taxable income. We actually provide donors with 1099-MISC forms at the end of the year for amounts over $600. The good news is that NYS has that partial benefit calculation others mentioned - you won't lose your entire weekly benefit amount, just a portion based on what you earn. It's definitely better to report it accurately from the start rather than risk complications later.

Just want to add - make sure you have your Social Security number, driver's license, and employment info for the last 18 months ready when you file online. The system will ask for details about your previous employers including dates, wages, and reason you left each job. Having this info organized beforehand will make the application process much smoother and reduce chances of delays.

Just went through this process myself a few months ago. One thing I wish someone had told me - even though you can file immediately, there's a mandatory one-week waiting period before you can receive your first payment. So even if your claim gets approved quickly, you won't get paid for that first week. Also, make sure you set up direct deposit when you file - getting checks by mail can add another few days to each payment. The whole process from filing to first payment took me about 3.5 weeks, but that first payment covered weeks 2-3 of unemployment since week 1 is the waiting period.

You should be able to request a detailed breakdown of the overpayment calculation. Sometimes these happen because of delays in processing employer wage reports, or if there was confusion about your job search activities during certain weeks. The key is to respond promptly and either set up repayment or file an appeal if you believe the determination is incorrect. They can't garnish wages or offset tax refunds until they go through proper legal procedures, which gives you time to work things out.

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago and understand how overwhelming it feels. Here's what worked for me: First, call the overpayment unit directly (not the general unemployment line) - the number should be on your notice. If you can't get through, try calling right when they open at 8am. Second, ask for a "waiver of recovery" form if the overpayment wasn't due to fraud on your part - sometimes they'll waive collection if it was their error or due to circumstances beyond your control. Third, if you do owe the money, they're usually very reasonable about payment plans. I set up a $100/month plan and they didn't charge interest. Don't let this stress consume you - there are definitely solutions available.