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I want to follow up on my earlier advice about Form TC-403B. If you've already submitted a backdate request and it's been more than 3 weeks, you should also submit Form UI-44.1 (Request for Reconsideration). This specifically asks them to review a previously submitted but unanswered request. Also, while you're pursuing these multiple avenues, keep a detailed log of: - Every contact attempt (date, time, number called) - Every submission (form number, date, confirmation number) - Names of any representatives you speak with This documentation can help if you need to escalate further or if you eventually need to pursue an appeal.
Thank you - I've started a detailed log as you suggested. The assembly person's office also recommended I document everything. I submitted both forms you mentioned through my online account. The UI-44.1 form actually had a field specifically for "unprocessed backpay review" which sounds exactly like my situation.
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Update: I got through to someone! I tried several of the suggestions here. The assembly person's office was helpful and started the process, but I was still worried about timing with the eviction deadline. I ended up using Claimyr and got connected to an agent in about an hour. The agent found that my backpay had been flagged for "identity verification" but no one had ever notified me! She was able to verify my identity on the call and release ALL my backpay - it should deposit within 3 business days. She also said I should have received multiple notices about this requirement but they were never sent. I also called 211 and applied for ERAP as a backup plan in case the unemployment money doesn't arrive before my eviction deadline. Thank you all so much for your help during this crisis. I was really at my breaking point.
I'm so glad to hear this! It's unfortunately common for notices to never be sent even though the system marks them as "sent" - this seems to be a recurring issue with NYSDOL's notification system. Make sure to keep all documentation from this resolution in case there are any future issues. Great job advocating for yourself despite the difficult circumstances.
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I had to do this back in January and my experience was TERRIBLE. The video verification was scheduled then canceled TWICE without notice. I ended up waiting 23 days - well beyond their "14 day" promise. When I finally got someone on the phone, they claimed my verification had been approved a week earlier but "hadn't been entered into the system correctly." Sure. Magically fixed it while I was on the phone. ALWAYS follow up before their deadline - don't just trust the process!
omg this happened 2 my roommate too! he called like 50 times b4 getting someone who fixed it
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That's really concerning... I'll definitely follow up if I don't see any changes by the end of next week. Did you have to call multiple times to finally get someone helpful?
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When I did my video verification last year, it actually went pretty fast. Got approved in 4 days. But I think I just got lucky with timing honestly. I remember the agent said something about how they were catching up on a backlog. Anyway, I'd just keep checking the website every morning, that's when they usually update the system. By the way, my brother is applying for benefits now too. Does anyone know if he needs to do the video verification or is it only for certain people?
The ID verification requirement is triggered by several factors in the system. Most common reasons are: - First-time claimants - Address discrepancies in your application - Name variations in federal records - Suspicious IP access or login patterns - Random selection for enhanced verification It's not required for everyone, but approximately 30-40% of new claimants are currently being selected for this additional verification step.
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did u try the automated status line? sometimes works better than main number. 888-581-5812
I didn't know there was a separate status line! I'll try that one today, thanks for sharing it.
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Just wanted to follow up - were you able to get through with any of these methods? The situation with the phone lines has been particularly challenging this quarter due to the system migration.
UPDATE: I finally got through! I tried the Claimyr service that someone mentioned above and got connected to an agent in about 15 minutes. Turns out there was an identity verification issue they never notified me about. The agent cleared it and said my payments should process within 3 business days. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions.
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Hey everyone just want to chime in - just delt with this for my partner who had trouble with 2025 back pay and it was a big mess. What everyone is saying about the separate department is true. What worked was we kept calling the 1-888 numbr everyday at 8AM sharp and asking specifically for a tier 2 specialist who can handle back payments. Took 6 days of calling but finally got someone who fixed it that day!!!! Dont bother with the message system completly useless. Hope this helps somebody!!
Thanks! I'm definitely going to try the 8AM approach. Did you need to say anything specific to get to a tier 2 specialist? Or just ask directly for that?
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just be super clear that you need a tier 2 specialist for backpayment processing. if they try to transfer you to regular help say NO and that you need specificly backpay department. sometimes they try to rush you off to wrong place. good luck!!!!
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Update to my earlier comment - I forgot to mention that there's a specific form you might need to fill out for expediting back payments. It's called the Request for Back Payment Processing (Form BP-2025). It's not on their main website - you need to navigate to the "Forms and Publications" section, then "Specialized Claim Forms" and it should be there. This form goes directly to the Back Payment team and bypasses some of the regular processing queues. Include a copy of your determination letter when you submit it.
This is incredibly helpful - thank you! I'm going to look for that form right now. Should I submit it online or mail it in? And do you know roughly how long it took to process after you submitted the form?
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You can submit it either way, but online is definitely faster. I submitted mine online and included my determination letter as an attachment. It took about 10 business days after submitting the form for my back pay to appear. Still not lightning fast, but much better than the 5+ weeks it was taking before I submitted the form. Make sure you keep the confirmation number they give you when you submit it - you'll need that if you have to call to follow up.
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UPDATE: I found my 1099-G! For anyone else who might need this info: I had to click on "Unemployment Services" then scroll ALL the way down to find the tax forms section. It wasn't obvious at all. Thanks everyone for your help!
Great to hear you found it! Just remember to report all of that unemployment income on your taxes. A lot of people forget and then end up with an unpleasant surprise from the IRS later.
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My tax preparer said i need to get a CORRECTED 1099-G because mine shows the wrong amount!!! Has anyone dealt with getting a corrected form?? SO FRUSTRATING
For a corrected 1099-G, you'll need to call NYSDOL directly at 1-888-209-8124 and specifically request a correction. Explain the discrepancy and they should be able to issue a corrected form. Make sure to have your documentation ready showing what you actually received versus what's on the form. The correction process usually takes 2-3 weeks, so plan accordingly for your tax filing deadline.
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Does anyone know if they're offering any special programs right now for people who exhaust benefits? Back in 2022 there was that Extended Benefits program but I haven't heard of anything current.
There are no federal or state extensions currently active in New York as of April 2025. The Extended Benefits program you mentioned was tied to high unemployment rates during a specific period and isn't currently in effect. Your only option right now is filing a new regular UI claim if you qualify.
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Thank you everyone for all the info! I'm going to file a new claim during my last week and hope for the best. I'll make sure to gather all my gig work documentation just in case they need proof of some employment. This is all so stressful!
Good luck! Hope it goes smooth for you 👍
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My sister went thru something similar back in January. She said when her regular benefits ended there was actually an option right in her online account about applying for extended benefits. Check under the "Messages" tab or maybe under "Payment History" when you get closer to the end. The system might give you instructions automatically.
Just to clarify a technical point about EB: New York follows a specific formula to determine when it's triggered. The state needs to have a 3-month average unemployment rate that's either: 1. At least 6.5% AND 110% of the rate during the same period in either of the two previous years, OR 2. At least 8.0% regardless of previous years This is why EB isn't currently active despite some areas of NY having high unemployment. It's based on the statewide average, not regional numbers. The NYSDOL will announce if/when EB becomes available, and they'll automatically review your eligibility if you've exhausted regular UI benefits within your benefit year.
Thank you for explaining the formula - that makes more sense now. So even though some parts of NY might have higher unemployment, it's the state average that matters. I'll keep an eye on the announcements and hope the job market improves overall.
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The whole BYE date thing is just another way the system screws people over!!! I had $2800 left in my account when my BYE date hit and they just TOOK IT BACK. That money should be MINE - I worked for YEARS and paid into the system!!! The whole thing is designed to be confusing on purpose so people miss out on benefits they deserve.
While I understand your frustration, unemployment insurance works on a benefit year system by design. The remaining balance isn't actually "your" money - it's the maximum amount you could potentially receive during your benefit year if you remained unemployed the entire time. If you find work earlier or reach your BYE date, the unused portion returns to the unemployment insurance trust fund to help pay benefits for others. It's similar to how health insurance works with annual maximums that reset each year. The system isn't perfect, but the year-based structure helps ensure the fund remains solvent for everyone who needs it.
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my cousin had this happen last month and she said if you call right before your BYE date they can sometimes extend it especially if you have balance left. not sure if thats true for everyone tho.
This information isn't accurate. NYSDOL cannot simply extend your benefit year beyond the BYE date just because you have a remaining balance. The benefit year is fixed at 52 weeks from when you first filed your claim, as established by NY state law. What your cousin may have experienced is filing a new claim (if eligible) or being placed on an extension program if one was available. Extensions are only available under specific circumstances, usually when unemployment rates are high or during special situations authorized by state or federal legislation. It's important not to spread misinformation about this process, as it could lead to people having unrealistic expectations about their benefits.
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my friend had same problem last month and i think you can get older forms but you haveto do it by phone. the website only lets yoy see current year i think. or maybe your account is jyst glitchy, that happens alot with the ny unemployment site lol
Thanks! Yeah the site is super glitchy, keeps timing out on me.
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Just wanted to follow up and see if you were able to get your 1099-G forms? Did you try calling again or use any of the suggestions here?
I ended up using that Claimyr service you mentioned and got through to NYSDOL in about 25 minutes! The agent was actually super helpful and is sending both years' 1099-G forms to my email. Should have them by tomorrow. Thanks again for the recommendation - saved me so much frustration!
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Great to hear you got it resolved! Just make sure to keep copies of those forms with your tax records. The IRS can audit returns for up to 3 years (sometimes longer), so having documentation of all your unemployment income is important.
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Maggie Martinez
wait i just remembered my friend had to do this and she went to the unemployment office in person and they printed it for her right there
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Zane Gray
That's useful to know! Do you happen to know which office she went to? I'm in Buffalo so hopefully there's one nearby.
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Maggie Martinez
she went to the one in brooklyn idk about buffalo sorry
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Lia Quinn
So did you get your documents? Which method worked best?
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Zane Gray
I ended up requesting the official payment history statement online and also went to the local office as a backup plan. The office was actually able to print it for me on the spot! Thanks everyone for all your help!
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