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Word of warning - getting through to NYS Department of Labor on the phone to ask questions about your claim is nearly impossible these days. I spent weeks trying to get someone to explain why my benefit amount seemed wrong. Finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get connected to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me so much frustration trying to call myself.
Don't forget you can get up to 26 weeks of benefits in NY, so even if you're getting the maximum $504 weekly that's over $13,000 total if you need the full duration. Just make sure you file your weekly claims every week and keep up with the job search requirements or they'll cut you off.
Had issues reaching NYS Department of Labor when my claim got stuck because I missed some employment dates. Ended up using claimyr.com to get through to an agent - they have this system that calls you back when someone's available rather than waiting on hold forever. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Saved me hours of trying to call.
Keep documenting everything! Save any emails, texts, or written communication about your layoff. If you have coworkers who were also laid off at the same time, get their contact info in case you need witnesses for an appeal. The adjudication officer will review all the evidence from both you and your employer before making a determination.
ugh the whole unemployment tax situation is such a mess. i remember getting that refund a few years back but it took FOREVER and they never explained anything clearly. typical government BS if you ask me
Just to clarify for everyone - unemployment benefits from NYS Department of Labor are taxable income. You should have received a 1099-G form showing how much you received. The only exception was the 2020 tax year federal exclusion that's already been processed. Make sure you're not missing any important tax deadlines!
Axel Far
The extended benefits depend on what happened with your job too. If it was a mass layoff or plant closure there are additional WARN Act protections and rapid response services. NYS Department of Labor will coordinate with local workforce development boards to provide specialized assistance. Also if you've been working steadily for years like you mentioned, you'll probably qualify for the full 26 weeks of benefits.
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Jasmine Hernandez
benefits are benefits i guess but the system is so broken, took me 6 weeks just to get my first payment and they never explained half the programs you're talking about. good luck getting straight answers from anyone there
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Melody Miles
•The initial delays are frustrating but once you're in the system the benefits do provide a safety net while you're job searching.
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