The first thing you need to know is that the benefit is delivered by the New York State Department of Labor. To qualify, the official site indicates that the following conditions must be met:
- Have lost your job through no fault of your own.
- Have received enough previous income from your job to establish a right.
- Be prepared, willing and able to work immediately.
- Actively seek work and keep a record (online or in writing) of your efforts.
- Have a social security number. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible (if you are undocumented, you can find out more about your options here).
For more details on how to prove each of these points, the Department of Labor published the following document: Link
How do I apply?
The insurance request is made online, at the site www.labor.ny.gov/signin (you must create a username and password).
Although the application is made online, due to the emergence of the Coronavirus these must be done according to the following guidelines:
Surnames that begin with A – F: Monday
Surnames that begin with G – N: Tuesday
Surnames that begin with O – Z: Wednesday
Every Surname: Thursday and Friday.
At the following times:
Monday to Thursday: 8 a.m. at 7:30 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. at 6 p.m.
Saturday: 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
You can also do this by calling the toll-free number 888-209-8124 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. at 5:00 p.m. Press 9 to get translation services
What documents do I need?
- Your social security number
- Your New York State driver’s license or vehicle identification card number (either one)
- Your address and full zip code
- A phone number where they can reach you Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. at 5:00 p.m.
- Your alien registration number (if you are not a US citizen and have a card)
- Names and addresses of all employers during the past 18 months, including those in other states
- Employer Registration Number or Employer Identification Number (FEIN, From your most recent employer (the FEIN is on your W-2 forms)
- Copies of your SF8 and SF50 forms, if you were a federal employee
- Your most recent separation form (DD 214), if you were in the military
How long does it take?
It takes three to six weeks from the time you submit your application until you receive your first payment, although due to the Coronavirus pandemic, this time may increase.
