How to File for Unemployment in New York
If you live in the state of New York and need to file for unemployment benefits, you can do so by telephone or online.
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Instructions
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Gather the following information: your Social Security number; your New York State driver's license or ID card; your employment history for the past 18 months; the Employer Registration number or Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) of your most recent employer (FEIN may be found on your W-2 forms); copies of forms SF8 and SF50 if you had federal employment within the last 18 months; and a copy of your most recent separation form DD 214 if you are an ex-service member claiming benefits based on your military service.
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Go to the New York Department of Labor's "Unemployment Insurance Benefits Online" webpage (see Resources), read the information and log in with your Social Security number.
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Create a personal identification number and click “Continue.”
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Click “File a Claim.”
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Determine how you want your benefits paid (direct deposit or direct payment card), and click “Continue.”
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Read the next two pages and agree to the terms and conditions on the second page by clicking “I Agree.”
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Answer the required questions.
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Print any information you might need for future reference.
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Tips & Warnings
If you choose to have direct deposit of your weekly benefits, you must enter your bank routing and checking account numbers.
You can file online from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday (Eastern time); Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and all day Saturday and Sunday until 7 p.m. If you prefer to file by telephone, you can call the telephone claim center at 888-209-8124 in state or 877-358-5306 for out-of-state residents between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
You can call 888-209-8124 or 877-358-5306 (outside New York) with any questions regarding your claim.
Wait at least two weeks before contacting anyone if you do not receive your unemployment check.
Do not hit the "Back" button while completing the application or you will lose all your information.
The first week you are eligible for benefits is an unpaid waiting week.
Resources
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