Hey, not sure if this helps, but I heard there's a new program for people in certain industries who've exhausted their regular benefits. Might be worth looking into if you worked in hospitality, travel, or entertainment before losing your job.

I just went through this exact situation a couple months ago! After my 26 weeks ran out, I was panicking too. Here's what I learned: there's no automatic extension right now, but definitely contact your local career center - they sometimes have emergency assistance programs or can connect you with temporary work opportunities. Also, if you haven't already, apply for SNAP benefits and see if you qualify for any utility assistance programs in your area. It's not unemployment, but it can help stretch whatever savings you have while you keep job hunting. The waiting is the worst part, but don't give up! 🙏

Make sure you file your weekly claims even if your initial claim is still pending. That's something they don't tell you but you can lose weeks if you don't keep certifying.

Just wanted to add that you should also check if you qualify for any extended benefits or special programs. When I filed last year after being laid off from manufacturing, I found out about some additional training programs through NYS Department of Labor that can extend your benefits while you're learning new skills. Also, make sure you have all your employment history ready - they'll want dates, employer info, and reason for separation for each job in the past 18 months. The online application can time out if you don't have everything prepared beforehand.

Check your mailing address on file too - sometimes if your address changed during the year they might have mailed it to an old address. You can update your info through the my.ny.gov portal and request a duplicate copy.

I had the same issue last month! If the Tax Documents section is empty, try clearing your browser cache and logging out/back in. Sometimes the portal has display issues. Also make sure you're looking under the right tax year - they separate them by year. If it's still not showing up after a few days, you can also call the automated line at 1-888-209-8124 and request they mail you a copy, which usually arrives within 10 business days.

wait is nullification different from disqualification?? I thought those were the same thing

I went through something similar last month and it was terrifying at first. The key thing is don't panic - nullification notices often get reversed once you provide the right documentation. In my case, they had my employer's federal ID number wrong in their system, which made it look like I had no wage history. I gathered all my pay stubs, W-2s, and even asked my HR department for a letter confirming my employment dates and wages. Filed the appeal online and included everything as PDFs. It took about 3 weeks but they reinstated my claim with full back pay. The most important thing is to act quickly - that appeal deadline is firm. Also keep filing your weekly claims even while the appeal is pending, as others have mentioned.

just file already! the longer you wait the more money you're losing. worst case scenario they deny your claim and you appeal it

Carmen, I understand your anxiety about this, but remember that filing for unemployment is a legal right when you've been separated from employment through no fault of your own. The notification to your employer is just part of the verification process - they're required to confirm employment details and separation reason. Most employers receive these notices regularly and treat them as routine paperwork. If you were legitimately terminated or laid off, don't let fear of your former employer's reaction prevent you from accessing benefits you've earned. The Department of Labor will handle the process professionally regardless of any workplace drama that may have occurred.