just checked back - did u ever get thru? im still having same issue 🙄

I've been dealing with the same nightmare for weeks! The phone system is absolutely broken. What finally worked for me was a combination of strategies - I called at exactly 8:00 AM on a Wednesday using the 1-6-1 menu sequence someone mentioned, and also kept submitting messages through the online portal. It took about 12 attempts but I finally got through last week. The key is being persistent and trying multiple approaches at once. Don't give up - your benefits are worth fighting for! Also make sure you keep certifying weekly while you're trying to resolve this.

definitely appeal it!! i got denied twice and won on the second appeal you just gotta keep fighting

I went through something similar last year. The most important thing is to request a hearing/appeal within 30 days of receiving your denial notice. When you do appeal, make sure to write a detailed explanation of why you disagree with the decision and include all supporting documents. Since you were laid off (not fired or quit), the burden is really on your employer to prove any misconduct if that's what they're claiming. I'd also recommend checking if your employer reported the separation correctly to NYS DOL - sometimes there are discrepancies between what actually happened and what gets reported in their system.

This reminds me of when I got laid off from my restaurant job last year. Different situation but I was also worried about whether I'd qualify. The NYS Department of Labor process was actually pretty straightforward once I got started. Just make sure you file your weekly claims on time every week no matter what!

I went through something similar about a year ago when I got fired after reporting unsafe working conditions at a warehouse. Filed for unemployment right away and got approved even though my employer tried to contest it. The key is having your documentation ready - those emails you sent about the safety issues will be crucial. NYS Department of Labor definitely protects workers who report legitimate safety concerns. Don't let them intimidate you into thinking you don't deserve benefits. You were doing the right thing by speaking up about dangerous conditions.

Ugh the whole system is so frustrating!!! I'm dealing with something similar and it's been WEEKS of waiting. Why does everything with unemployment have to be so complicated? Just want to know if I qualify or not!

I went through this exact situation about 8 months ago. The key thing to understand is that "good cause" in NY is very specific - it's not just about a bad boss or toxic workplace, but about conditions that would force any reasonable person to quit. Things like documented harassment, unsafe working conditions, or significant changes to your job that weren't agreed to. I'd strongly recommend consulting with an employment attorney before you quit if possible. Many offer free consultations and can help you understand if your situation meets the legal standard for good cause. Also, consider filing complaints with HR, your state's labor board, or OSHA first if applicable - having a paper trail of trying to resolve issues internally really strengthens your case. The process is stressful and can take months, so make sure you have a financial backup plan regardless of what you decide.

just wondering but did u have any jobs in the last 18 months out of state? that always makes it take longer

Update for everyone: I just checked my account and my claim was FINALLY approved this morning! It took exactly 24 days from filing to approval. All my certified weeks show as paid now, with the payment scheduled for tomorrow. Huge relief! Going to keep certifying weekly going forward. Thanks everyone for your advice and support through this stressful time.