I'm so glad you asked this question! I was in the exact same situation last year - filed for unemployment in NY back in 2020 during the pandemic, then got laid off again in 2023 from a completely different job. I was terrified that I had somehow "used up" my eligibility, but it turns out that's not how it works at all! You can absolutely file multiple times as long as you meet the work requirements for each new claim period. Since you worked full-time at the warehouse for over a year, you should definitely qualify. The system looks at your earnings during what they call the "base period" to determine if you've worked enough since your last claim. One thing I learned the hard way - don't wait too long to file! I delayed for almost three weeks thinking I needed everything perfectly organized first, but you can't backdate your claim earlier than when you actually file. The application will walk you through everything you need, and you can always provide additional documentation later if they ask for it. The whole process was actually easier the second time around since I already had my NY.gov account set up and knew what to expect. You've got this - there's definitely no lifetime limit on unemployment claims!

I just want to echo what everyone else has said - you can definitely file multiple times! I'm actually on my third unemployment claim in NY over the past 8 years (2016, 2021, and just filed again last month). Each time I was worried about the same thing you are, but it's completely allowed as long as you've worked enough since your last claim ended. Since you worked full-time at the warehouse for over a year, you should have no problem meeting the wage requirements. The thing that really helped me was keeping a simple spreadsheet with all my job details (employer names, addresses, dates worked, wages) so I could fill out the application quickly when the time came. One quick tip - when you file, make sure to answer all the questions about why you're unemployed honestly and completely. Since you mentioned it was due to company downsizing, that should qualify as being unemployed "through no fault of your own" which is exactly what the system is looking for. Don't stress about having used benefits before - that's literally what the program is designed for!

2 weeks is actually pretty normal from what I've seen. My sister just got approved last month and it took exactly 15 days from when she filed to when she got her first payment

I'm in the same boat - filed 3 weeks ago and still waiting. What helped me was creating an account on the NY.gov job search site and making sure I was registered there, even though they don't always tell you this is required. Also, if you were laid off or terminated, sometimes they need to contact your former employer to verify the reason for separation, which can add extra time. Hang in there, most people do eventually get approved and receive back pay for all the weeks they were waiting.

Not to freak you out but I'd recommend calling before your BYE hits. My account got all messed up and I couldn't certify for my last week until I talked to a rep. Better safe than sorry.

i've been through 2 BYE transitions now (covid layoff still going strong 😭). heres the deal: you gotta certify for that last week first, then file new claim. BUT expect at least 2-3 weeks before the new claim kicks in. if u need $ faster definitely call them after filing new claim. they can sometimes expedite.

I'm going through the same thing right now - filed about 2 weeks ago and still waiting. From what I've been reading online, the NYS Department of Labor has been really backed up lately. One thing that helped me was checking if there are any pending issues or documents needed in the portal - sometimes they request additional info but don't notify you clearly. Also try calling early in the morning around 8am when they open, I've heard that's when you have the best chance of getting through. Hang in there, the waiting is definitely the worst part!

I've been through this exact situation! Filed my claim in March and it took almost 4 weeks to get a determination. The key things that helped me: 1) Keep filing your weekly claims no matter what - this is crucial for getting backpay later, 2) Check the "Correspondence" section in your online account daily - sometimes they send requests for info there without email notifications, 3) If you can, try the live chat feature on the NYS DOL website early morning around 8-9am when it's less busy. I know the waiting is stressful but hang in there - once it goes through you'll get all the backpay from your filing date. The system is slow but it does work eventually.

Just went through this exact situation last month! Yes, definitely certify on Sunday for your final week - you're entitled to that payment. The key is timing: certify first thing Sunday morning, then file your new claim the same day. Don't wait! I made the mistake of waiting a few days to file my new claim and it just delayed everything. Also heads up - when you file your new claim, make sure you have all your employer information handy for the past 18 months, including exact dates and wages. The system can be picky about incomplete info. You've got this!

I'm dealing with this same situation right now - my BYE is this Sunday too! Reading through everyone's responses has been super helpful. Just to make sure I understand the process correctly: certify for the final week first thing Sunday morning, then file the new claim later that same day, and expect a one-week waiting period for the new benefit year? I've got all my employer info from the past 18 months organized and ready to go. It's reassuring to see so many people have successfully navigated this transition. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences!