I went through something similar when I was laid off from my main job but still had a small freelance gig ending around the same time. Definitely file just one claim and include both employers - the system is designed to handle multiple work histories. When you get to the work history section, you'll see fields for multiple employers where you can enter dates, wages, and separation reasons for each. The NYS DOL will use whichever quarters give you the highest benefit calculation, so having both jobs reported actually works in your favor. Just keep all your documentation handy (W-2s, pay stubs, etc.) in case they need verification.

I'm actually dealing with a similar situation right now! I was let go from my main office job in January but also had a small tutoring gig that ended around the same time. From what I've learned through the process, you definitely need to file just one claim and report both employers in the work history section. The NYS DOL website has a pretty clear step-by-step guide that walks you through adding multiple employers. One thing that helped me was gathering all my employment documents beforehand - pay stubs, W-2s, and exact employment dates for both jobs. The seasonal aspect of your weekend job shouldn't complicate things too much, just make sure to note that when you're filling out the reason for separation. Good luck with your claim!

definitely not public record but honestly the whole system feels so invasive anyway with all the job search requirements and verification stuff they make you do

Just wanted to add that I work in HR and can confirm - we absolutely cannot access unemployment records during background checks or hiring processes. The only time we'd know is if an applicant voluntarily mentions it or if we're the company that laid them off originally. Your unemployment history is protected information, so don't let privacy concerns prevent you from getting benefits you're entitled to. The stigma around unemployment is outdated anyway - most employers understand that layoffs happen and it doesn't reflect poorly on you as a candidate.

Just make sure you have all your pay stubs from the temp work when you file. NYS Department of Labor will verify your wages with the staffing agency anyway, but having documentation helps speed things up.

I went through this exact situation about 8 months ago with a temp job that lasted 4 months. Filed my claim online through the NYS DOL website and it was pretty straightforward. The key thing they ask is why your employment ended - just be honest that it was a temporary assignment that concluded due to lack of available work. Also, keep records of any communication with your staffing agency about looking for new placements since that shows you're actively seeking work. The whole process took about 3 weeks from filing to getting my first payment, but that included the mandatory waiting week. Don't let the temporary nature of the job discourage you from applying - you earned those benefits!

I was in a similar situation about a year ago - toxic manager, constantly changing schedules, and feeling like I was being set up to fail. What helped me was keeping a detailed log of every incident with dates and times. I also started responding to my manager's schedule change texts with something like "Just confirming you're changing my schedule from X to Y with less than 24 hours notice" to create a paper trail. When I finally did quit and applied for UI, having that documentation made all the difference. The key is showing a pattern of unreasonable behavior from your employer that would make any reasonable person quit. Don't just quit impulsively - build your case first if you can.

This is really helpful advice from everyone. I'm dealing with something similar - my supervisor has been making the workplace unbearable with constant criticism and unrealistic expectations. From what I'm reading here, it sounds like the key is documentation and showing you tried to resolve things first. @Nia Wilson, your approach of creating a paper trail through confirming texts is brilliant. I'm going to start doing that too. Has anyone had experience with filing a complaint with HR before quitting? I'm wondering if that would help strengthen a case for "good cause" or if it might just make things worse at work.

Hey Lincoln! I went through something super similar last year. You definitely have a right to those retroactive benefits - don't let the system discourage you! Here's what worked for me: I had to call multiple times over several days, but I finally got through by calling right when they opened at 8 AM on a Tuesday. The agent was actually really helpful once I explained my situation with the missing W2 and job search timeline. Make sure you have documentation ready: your layoff notice, any job applications you submitted during those 3 months, and definitely get that W2 from your previous employer. They have to provide it by law. The key is being persistent but polite with the agents. They deal with frustrated people all day, so being understanding goes a long way. Good luck - that money is rightfully yours!

Don't give up! I had a similar situation a couple years ago where I was laid off but couldn't file right away due to missing paperwork. The retroactive claim process is definitely possible but you're right that it's frustrating. A few things that helped me: 1) Keep detailed records of every call you make - date, time, who you spoke with, case numbers if they give you any. 2) Try calling different phone numbers if one isn't working - sometimes the general line gets you through faster than the claims line. 3) If you have any union connections from your trade work, they sometimes have contacts who can help navigate the system. Also, since your tax guy recommended claiming it, that's a good sign you have a legitimate case. The state owes you that money for the time you were actually unemployed and job searching. Keep pushing - it's worth the hassle for 3 months of benefits!