How to File for Unemployment in New York

Have you recently lost your job in New York state? Have your work hours been cut? If you worked in the state of New York, you may be able to file for unemployment benefits in New York. Read on for information on how to file for unemployment in New York.

Introduction
- If you have lost your job in the state of New York, you will need to file for unemployment benefits. New York's Department of Labor handles all unemployment claims. The Department recommends that anyone who has become unemployed file a claim in the first week they are out of work. If you delay, you may lose some of your benefits. You can file for unemployment insurance by telephone or online. The maximum weekly unemployment benefit in New York State is $405.
FUTURE OF NYC JOBS AND UNEMPLOYMENT

The Comptroller of New York City, William C. Thompson, Jr., held a press conference to discuss the unemployment rate of New York City residents in July of 2009. He stated that his office anticipated that 400,000 city residents would be unemployed by 2010. This is the highest number in more than 15 years. They also anticipate the the unemployment rate would reach 9.5% by 2010.

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Step 1: Determine If You Qualify for New York Unemployment Benefits
- To qualify for unemployment benefits in New York you must either be totally or partially unemployed through no fault of your own. This may include:
1. Being totally laid off from your regular job
2. Having your work hours reduced
To qualify you must:
1. Have had employee status at your former job; independent contractors are not eligible for unemployment
2. Have an minimum amount of work and wages leading up to unemployment
3. Be actively seeking work
4. Have worked in New York State during the past 18 months. If all of your work during the past 18 months has been in another state, you need to file for benefits in the state where you worked.http://www.labor.state.ny.us/ui/claimantinfo/beforeyouapplyfaq.shtm#6
- Eligibility for unemployment benefits in New York is determined after you have filed a claim. If you are unsure if you qualify, file the claim.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents
- Before you file an unemployment claim in New York, you will need:
1. Your Social Security number
2. A valid driver's license or photo identification card number
3. Your complete mailing address and zip code
4. Telephone number where you may be reached between 9 - 5 p.m. on weekdays
5. Employer Registration number or Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) of your most recent employer
6. Your most recent employer's:
  1. Name
  2. Address
  3. Zip code
  4. Phone number
7. Your Alien Registration Number (if applicable)
8. Your bank checking and routing numbers, if you plan to receive weekly unemployment benefits via direct deposit
Step 3: Apply for Benefits
- Unemployed workers in New York may apply for benefits two ways:
1. Online: log on to the New York State Department of Labor's website; you can fill out your form online
2. By telephone
  1. In-state residents should call 1-888-209-8124
  2. Out of state residents should call 1-877-358-5306
- For each week you are unemployed, you will need to submit a claim for benefits.
Conclusion
- If you have lost your job in the state of New York, or if you have had your hours cut through no fault of your own, you may be eligible to collect unemployment. The amount will vary, depending on your earnings in your previous job, but the money can help tide you over until you find a new job or until your hours are increased again. Don't delay: file your benefits claim as soon as you are let go.