How to File a New York Unemployment Claim
Apply for New York unemployment benefits online with a NY.gov ID, or by phone.
New York Unemployment (DOL) Phone Number
| Phone | (888) 209-8124 |
| Hours | Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM ET |
| Website | dol.ny.gov |
USA Customer Care is an independent guide — not affiliated with New York Unemployment (DOL). Official website: dol.ny.gov. Menus and numbers can change; always confirm on the official site.
Before You Begin
File your New York unemployment claim in your first week without work. The fastest way is online with a NY.gov ID at dol.ny.gov; you can also file by phone if you cannot use the website.
What You’ll Need
Have ready:
- Your Social Security number and driver's license or state ID
- Your employment history for the last 18 months (employers, dates, pay)
- The reason your job ended, and your NY.gov ID sign-in
Step-by-Step
- Go to dol.ny.gov and sign in with your NY.gov ID (create one if needed).
- Choose to file a new unemployment claim and enter your identity and employment history.
- Submit; the Department of Labor mails you a monetary determination with your benefit amount.
- To file by phone instead, call the Telephone Claims Center at 1-888-209-8124 (Mon-Fri, 8 AM-5 PM).
- Then claim your weekly benefits each week — you must claim to be paid.
Faster: Do It Online
Create or use your NY.gov ID at dol.ny.gov to file — it is the fastest way and lets you claim weekly benefits and check status in the same account.
How to File a New York Unemployment Claim — FAQ
File in the first week you are unemployed. Your claim generally starts the week you file, so filing late can cost you benefits.
Yes. You must be ready, willing, and able to work and keep a record of your work-search activities each week to stay eligible.
New York Unemployment (DOL) Phone Numbers
| Telephone Claims Center | (888) 209-8124 Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM ET |
| Deaf or hard of hearing | (888) 783-1370 Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM ET |
More New York Unemployment (DOL) Guides
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