I've heard from a few freelance folks who have lost gigs, contracts, or they can't get a pitch through, or their clients/editors have put new work on hold.

Freelancers: YOU NOW QUALIFY FOR UNEMPLOYMENT.

Usually we don't qualify for unemployment. But because of the new legislation that's been passed, we do.

Every state runs their own unemployment system, and some have not yet implemented an application process for freelancers.

But if you're in New York, here's how to do it.

Go to this link to apply online:
https://labor.ny.gov/unemploymentassistance.shtm

You will need to sign in with your NY dot GOV ID.

You might already have this from doing online DMV stuff or filing your state taxes. If you don't have one, sign up.

You're supposed to file on a certain day of the week depending on the first letter of your last name.

A - F: Mon
G - N: Tues
O - Z: Wed

Missed your day? File on Thurs-Fri-Sat-Sun

But with the shitshow currently going on, who knows if this suggestion is still relevant.

Some of the questions in the application are confusing because freelancers are not "traditionally" employed.

Download this PDF from NYS that shows self-employed people EXACTLY what to answer on those confusing questions:

https://labor.ny.gov/ui/pdfs/self-employed-ui-guide.pdf

You may have heard that folks are trying to call the unemployment hotline to complete their application, but are unable to get through.

NYS has changed the application process.

You no longer need to call to verify anything.

If they need further info, someone will call YOU.

Freelance Unemployment FAQs:

"I'm still doing a little bit of freelance work. Do I qualify if I'm not totally destitute?"

YES

APPLY ANYWAY

Each week that you claim unemployment, you can indicate if you've worked a bit, and they will adjust your check accordingly.

"How much will I get?"

I have no idea.

There's a very confusing calculator you can try if you want, but who has the time?

https://labor.ny.gov/benefit-rate-calculator/

The important thing to know is that NYS will give you $600 EXTRA on top of your "regular" unemployment check every week.

"When will I get money?"

It might be a while. The system is backed up and there have never been so many new applications at one time.

Which is why it's important to apply NOW if you have lost freelance work.

Don't wait.

"How long can I receive unemployment?"

UP TO 39 WEEKS!

They've extended the length of time folks can receive unemployment because of corona.

So even if you qualify for like $1 of unemployment, you could potentially get $23,439.

(that's $1 unemployment + extra $600 x 39 weeks)

This may be the first and last time freelancers qualify for traditional unemployment.

So utilize it!

You deserve a financial safety net just like any other worker.

Especially in this unprecedented time.