This whole system is so confusing. Like why don't they just put this basic information somewhere easy to find? I spent forever trying to figure out the same thing when I got furloughed.

Just wanted to confirm what others have said - the $104 minimum is correct for 2025. I actually had a similar situation where I was working part-time making around $250 a week, and when I calculated my benefits it came out to about $125 weekly, which was above the minimum. The good news is that even in worst-case scenarios, you're guaranteed that $104 floor. Also, don't forget that you might be eligible for additional federal programs or extensions depending on your situation. The NYS Department of Labor website has a benefit calculator tool buried somewhere in their site that can give you a rough estimate before you file your claim.

guys always screenshot ur confirmation number when u certify!! saved me so many times when the system glitched and they tried to say i never certified. if u have the confirmation number they cant deny it.

Just wanted to add for anyone who might find this thread later - if you're ever stuck in a situation like this where the system is down close to your certification deadline, you can also try using the mobile app instead of the website. Sometimes one works when the other doesn't. Also, if you have an active case with unemployment, you can send a secure message through your account (when it's working) documenting the technical issues you experienced. This creates a paper trail that can help if there are any payment delays or disputes later. The system definitely has its problems but there are usually workarounds if you know where to look!

just file now better late than never!! dont beat yourself up about it

Hey Max, I've been in a similar situation and I know it's frustrating to realize you missed out on those weeks of benefits. Just want to add that when you do file, make sure you're completely honest about your separation date and reason for leaving. NYS Department of Labor will verify everything with your employer anyway, and any discrepancies can delay or complicate your claim. Also, once you start receiving benefits, don't forget you have to certify every week that you're actively looking for work - missing those weekly certifications can stop your payments. The construction industry can be tough with seasonal layoffs, so definitely get that claim filed today if you can.

I had trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor to ask about this exact question. If you need to speak with someone about your specific situation, I found claimyr.com really helpful - they connect you directly to unemployment agents without waiting on hold forever. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Saved me hours of calling and getting busy signals.

This happened to my coworker too - she waited almost a month thinking she needed to gather all her employment documents first. By the time she filed, she'd already lost out on about $1,200 in benefits. The key thing to remember is you can always provide additional documentation later if needed, but you can never get back those weeks you didn't file for. NYS makes this really unclear on their website - they should have a big warning that says "FILE IMMEDIATELY" right at the top of the unemployment page.

I'd reach out through their message portal too, not just by phone. Document that you tried to fix the issue. Screensnap the message so you have proof you self-reported the problem.

I went through something very similar last year. The key thing is to gather all your documentation first - pay stubs, work schedules, anything showing your Saturday shifts. When you do get through to someone, they'll want specific dates and earnings amounts. One thing that helped me was calling right at 8am when they open - you'll still wait but your chances are better than calling later in the day. Also, don't hang up if you get transferred to different departments, that's normal for corrections like this. The good news is that since you're self-reporting and it was an honest mistake about the reporting process (not trying to hide work), they should work with you. They'll likely have you pay back the overpayment amount but without penalties. Keep records of every conversation you have with them too. You're absolutely doing the right thing by trying to fix this before starting your new job in October. Better to deal with it now than have it come back as a bigger problem later!