Just to add - FUTA tax rate is currently 6% but employers get credits for paying state unemployment taxes, so most end up paying around 0.6%. This doesn't come out of your paycheck as an employee, it's entirely paid by employers. The money goes into trust funds that help states pay unemployment benefits when people lose their jobs.

Thanks everyone for the detailed explanations! I was really confused when I first saw FUTA mentioned in my NYS Department of Labor paperwork, but now I understand it's just the federal framework that enables the state program. It's reassuring to know that my benefits are calculated based on New York state rules and my work history here, not some federal formula I don't understand. Really appreciate this community helping newcomers like me navigate the system!

OP, just to be super clear on the process: file your initial claim on ny.gov, then you'll need to file weekly claims every week to keep getting benefits. Don't miss those weekly filings or you'll have more headaches. And start your job search log immediately since you'll need to show you're actively looking for work.

Just want to echo what everyone else is saying - file TODAY if possible! I made a similar mistake when I first lost my job and waited almost 2 months thinking I'd find something quickly. Even though I lost those weeks of backpay, I still ended up getting benefits for several months after that which really helped me get through a tough period. The application process on ny.gov is pretty straightforward, and once you get your first payment it's such a relief. Don't let the regret about waiting stop you from getting the help you need going forward. You've got this!

honestly the whole system is messed up. they expect you to be available 24/7 but real life doesn't work that way especially with kids. just keep filing your weekly claims and hope for the best

I went through this same situation a few months ago with my 3-year-old. What really helped was being proactive about documenting my childcare constraints from the start. I created a simple spreadsheet tracking every job application I submitted for evening/weekend positions, including the job posting details and when I applied. When NYS Department of Labor did eventually review my case, having that documentation made all the difference. Also, don't forget that you can include positions where you'd be able to arrange childcare if hired - like jobs that start a few weeks out, giving you time to find new arrangements. The key is showing you're genuinely seeking work within your realistic availability, not just sitting back. Good luck!

just checking in - same boat here! been waiting 5 weeks for my fact finding to finish. at least we're not alone in this mess lol

I went through this exact same situation last year when my retail job ended due to store closure. It took about 7 weeks for my fact finding to complete, but I did get approved with full back pay. One thing that helped me was gathering any additional documentation about the business closure - like news articles, lease termination notices, or anything showing it was permanent. You can upload these through your NY.gov account under "Upload Documents" even if they didn't specifically request them. Also, if you have any contact info for HR or management from the restaurant, having them available to verify employment details can speed things up if DOL needs to reach them. Hang in there - the waiting is the worst part but most legitimate claims do get approved eventually!

The system is so confusing about timing! They should make it clearer that you lose benefits if you don't file immediately. I almost made the same mistake when I got laid off last year. Fortunately my friend told me to file right away or I would have lost thousands.

Don't beat yourself up about waiting - you're definitely not alone in this situation! I work in HR and see this all the time. People think they need to exhaust all job search options first, but unemployment benefits are there to bridge the gap while you look. File today and start your weekly certifications right away. Also, make sure you're actively job searching since you'll need to report your search activities. Good luck with both the filing process and your job hunt!