New York Unemployment Benefits Denied After Freelance Contract

[aeron]

Hi, I was recently denied unemployment benefits, and I just wanted to talk with someone about whether I have a valid case to appeal.

I was working full-time in Washington, DC, but moved to New York last September. I resigned my position, but my employer and I struck up a freelance contract and I worked remotely until June. My company ended it, but the New York Department of Labor is saying that since I initially left my job, I am not covered.

I contend that I left my position but started up a new one (with a new title and freelance contract), and should thus be eligible. Please let me know if you can offer any assistance, and thanks in advance for your time and consideration.

[cbg]

Your own argument defeats your purpose. EMPLOYEES are eligible for UI. Contractors are not.

Once you, IN YOUR OWN WORDS, entered into a freelance contract, you became ineligible.

[aeron]

However, after four months of freelancing, HR reinstated me to full-time status with benefits (apparently my working 40 hours a week required them to give me benefits), and then two months later they cut me loose. So I was no longer a freelancer when it happened, I was full-time regular.

[aaron]

Your eligibility will turn on your wages during the qualifications period. You either had sufficient wages to qualify, or you did not.