The unemployment system is so broken honestly. They make you jump through hoops even when you have legitimate reasons for missing work. Like what are you supposed to do, abandon your sick child to keep a minimum wage job? But definitely apply - document everything and fight it if they deny you initially.

I work in HR and deal with unemployment claims regularly. From what you described, you have a decent chance of getting approved. NYS Department of Labor will consider whether your employer had a clear attendance policy that you were aware of, and more importantly, whether your absences were due to circumstances beyond your reasonable control. Car trouble and child illness are typically considered valid reasons. When you file, be completely honest about the attendance issues but emphasize the legitimate reasons. Also, if your employer contests the claim, you'll have a chance to present your side during the hearing process. Don't let the termination discourage you from applying - you've paid into the system and deserve a fair review.

Wait so does higher unemployment mean I'm more likely to get denied? I'm worried because I quit my job due to unsafe working conditions and I've heard mixed things about whether that qualifies.

Don't let economic rumors delay your filing! I work in HR and see this confusion all the time. Your unemployment benefits are calculated based on YOUR earnings history over the past 18 months, not current unemployment rates. The key dates that matter are: when you became unemployed (your "benefit year begin date") and when you file your claim. Every week you delay filing is a week of potential benefits you can't get back. The NY system doesn't care if 100 people file or 100,000 people file - your eligibility is determined by your individual work record and separation circumstances. File today at labor.ny.gov!

ugh the whole system is so frustrating!! they make it impossible to get benefits even when you legitimately need them. i know people who got denied for the stupidest reasons

Before you quit, definitely document everything you can about the toxic behavior - save any inappropriate emails, texts, or messages from your manager. Write down dates, times, and details of incidents with witnesses present if possible. Also check if your company has an employee handbook that outlines policies about workplace conduct - violations of their own policies can strengthen your case for "good cause" if you do end up quitting. The key is showing you tried to resolve it through proper channels first and that the situation was genuinely intolerable.

have u tried the automated system? sometimes u can verify through there

Ugh this is so frustrating! I'm dealing with the exact same thing right now. My ID.me got suspended out of nowhere and I can't get any help. The unemployment office keeps saying they can't do anything about ID.me issues and ID.me support is basically nonexistent. How is this even legal that they can just lock us out of our benefits like this? Really considering trying that claimyr thing Romeo mentioned because I'm desperate at this point 😩

NYS Department of Labor is definitely the right agency but good luck actually getting help from them when you need it!! Their phone system is a nightmare and the website crashes all the time. Been fighting with them over an adjudication issue for weeks now.

@Lilly Curtis - Yes, exactly! "UI" stands for Unemployment Insurance, which is administered by the NYS Department of Labor. You might also see it referred to as "unemployment benefits" or just "unemployment" in casual conversation, but it's all the same program. When you file your claim, you'll be dealing directly with NYS DOL through their online system. Just make sure you have your Social Security number, employment history for the past 18 months, and your most recent employer's information ready when you apply.