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Just went through this whole process and it's such a hassle to get through to anyone at NYS Department of Labor to ask questions. I couldn't reach anyone for weeks using their regular phone number. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent who explained my eligibility. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Made the whole process way less stressful than trying to figure it out on my own.
Just to add - if you're getting regular UI benefits, you can have federal and state taxes withheld. But if you're on any other programs like standby or partial benefits, the withholding options might be different. Best to check with an agent to make sure you're set up correctly.
The financial stress definitely compounds the emotional effects. Even with UI benefits, most people take a significant income cut. This creates a cycle where money worries make it harder to present confidently in interviews, which prolongs the unemployment period. If you're struggling with the reduced income, look into other assistance programs - food assistance, utility help, etc. Don't let pride prevent you from accessing resources that can reduce the financial pressure and help you focus on your job search.
honestly unemployment saved my sanity lol. was working 70 hour weeks at a toxic job and getting laid off was the best thing that happened. used my NYS Department of Labor time to completely switch careers. sometimes unemployment is exactly what you need even if it doesnt feel like it at the time
same boat as you - just got laid off last week from my restaurant job. was planning to file this weekend. good to know about filing online, i was dreading having to call
Most important thing is to keep filing your weekly claims even if your initial claim is still pending! I made that mistake and it delayed my benefits by weeks. Also start your job search right away and keep a log because they'll ask about it during your weekly certifications.
Nalani Liu
ugh the whole system is so confusing!! how can unemployment go UP when more people have jobs?? makes no sense to me but then again nothing about dealing with government agencies ever does
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Isaiah Sanders
•I know it seems counterintuitive, but it's really about the pool of people looking for work expanding. The NYS Department of Labor has to count everyone who's actively searching, whether they just lost a job or just decided to start working again.
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Axel Bourke
Just went through this with my unemployment claim. When I called NYS Department of Labor to ask about job search requirements, they mentioned that periods like this actually mean they're more strict about the work search documentation since opportunities exist. If you need to reach them for questions, I had luck using claimyr.com - they help you get through to actual agents instead of sitting on hold forever. There's a demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works.
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Fidel Carson
•Thanks for the tip! I'll keep that in mind if I need to contact them about filing a claim.
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