Can't reach New York Unemployment? Claimyr connects you to a live NYDOL agent in minutes.
Claimyr is a pay-as-you-go service. We do not charge a recurring subscription.
Using Claimyr will:
- Connect you to a human agent at the NYDOL
- Skip the long phone menu
- Call the correct department
- Redial until on hold
- Forward a call to your phone with reduced hold time
- Give you free callbacks if the NYDOL drops your call
If I could give 10 stars I would
If I could give 10 stars I would If I could give 10 stars I would Such an amazing service so needed during the times when EDD almost never picks up Claimyr gets me on the phone with EDD every time without fail faster. A much needed service without Claimyr I would have never received the payment I needed to support me during my postpartum recovery. Thank you so much Claimyr!
Really made a difference
Really made a difference, save me time and energy from going to a local office for making the call.
Worth not wasting your time calling for hours.
Was a bit nervous or untrusting at first, but my calls went thru. First time the wait was a bit long but their customer chat line on their page was helpful and put me at ease that I would receive my call. Today my call dropped because of EDD and Claimyr heard my concern on the same chat and another call was made within the hour.
An incredibly helpful service
An incredibly helpful service! Got me connected to a CA EDD agent without major hassle (outside of EDD's agents dropping calls – which Claimyr has free protection for). If you need to file a new claim and can't do it online, pay the $ to Claimyr to get the process started. Absolutely worth it!
Consistent,frustration free, quality Service.
Used this service a couple times now. Before I'd call 200 times in less than a weak frustrated as can be. But using claimyr with a couple hours of waiting i was on the line with an representative or on hold. Dropped a couple times but each reconnected not long after and was mission accomplished, thanks to Claimyr.
IT WORKS!! Not a scam!
I tried for weeks to get thru to EDD PFL program with no luck. I gave this a try thinking it may be a scam. OMG! It worked and They got thru within an hour and my claim is going to finally get paid!! I upgraded to the $60 call. Best $60 spent!
Ask the community...
- DO post questions about your issues.
- DO answer questions and support each other.
- DO post tips & tricks to help folks.
- DO NOT post call problems here - there is a support tab at the top for that :)
Join the conversation
Join the conversation
I had this exact same issue a few months ago! Turned out my previous employer had reported my wages under a slightly different Social Security number (they had one digit wrong). The NYS Department of Labor couldn't match my earnings to my claim, so it defaulted to $0. I had to visit a local Department of Labor office with my Social Security card and W-2 forms to get it straightened out. Once they corrected the SSN mismatch, my weekly benefit amount was updated within about a week and I received all the back payments I was owed. Definitely worth checking if your employer might have made a similar error when reporting your wages.
@Paolo Longo This is so helpful! I m'having the exact same $0 benefit issue and this SSN mismatch possibility never occurred to me. When you discovered the error, was it something the DOL staff could see immediately in their system when you showed them your documents? I m'wondering if I should call my old employer first to verify they have my correct SSN on file, or if it s'better to just go straight to the local office with my paperwork. Also, did you need to bring anything else besides your Social Security card and W-2 - like pay stubs or your separation notice?
@Paolo Longo This is super helpful! I ve'been dealing with the same $0 weekly benefit issue and calling NYS Department of Labor has been a nightmare. When you went to the local office, did they require you to make an appointment first or could you just walk in? Also, I m'curious - after they corrected the SSN error, did you have to do anything else to trigger the system to recalculate your benefits, or did it happen automatically? I want to make sure I understand the full process before I make the trip to resolve this.
I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Filed my claim 3 weeks ago, got approved, but every weekly certification shows $0 benefit amount. It's so frustrating because I know I earned enough to qualify for benefits. Reading through these comments has been really eye-opening - I had no idea there were so many different things that could cause this issue. I'm going to check my online account for any pending issues first, and if that doesn't show anything I'll try visiting a local office with my W-2 and pay stubs. Has anyone had success getting this resolved recently, or is the system still really backed up?
@Gianna Scott I went through this exact same situation about 6 weeks ago! My $0 weekly benefit turned out to be caused by my previous employer filing my wages under an incorrect business tax ID number. What finally resolved it was visiting the local NYS DOL office in person with my Social Security card, W-2, and last 8 pay stubs. The staff member was able to look up the wage records in real-time and immediately spotted the mismatch. They corrected it on the spot and my benefit amount was updated within 3 business days, plus I received all the retroactive payments I was owed. I d'definitely recommend the in-person visit if the document upload route doesn t'work - sometimes these database issues can only be fixed by someone with direct system access. Good luck!
@Gianna Scott I just went through this same issue and finally got it resolved! My problem was that I had moved recently and my address change wasn t'properly updated in their system, which somehow interfered with the wage matching process. What worked for me was calling the automated phone line 888-209-8124 (and) updating my address through the prompts, then uploading my W-2 and recent pay stubs through my.ny.gov. Within about a week, my benefit amount was calculated correctly and I received all the back payments. It s'worth double-checking that all your basic info address, (phone, etc. is) current in their system before diving into the more complex troubleshooting. Sometimes it s'the simple things that cause these headaches!
Join the conversation
I've been collecting NY unemployment for about 5 months now and this thread perfectly captures what I've experienced! When I first started, I was obsessed with certifying early Sunday morning thinking it would get me paid faster, but after a few weeks I realized it made absolutely no difference. I've certified everywhere from 8am to nearly midnight and always get the Tuesday deposit. The batch processing system really is the key - NYSDOL doesn't care if you're the first person or the last person to certify on Sunday, everyone gets processed at the same time Monday night. One thing I'd add is that if you're ever paranoid about whether your certification went through properly, you can always log back into the system and check your certification history - it'll show the date and time you submitted. Super helpful for peace of mind when you're relying on these payments!
This is such great advice about checking the certification history! I'm still pretty new to unemployment (just started last month) and didn't even know that feature existed. I've been one of those people who gets paranoid about whether I clicked the right buttons or if something went wrong during submission. Being able to go back and verify that everything went through properly is going to be huge for my peace of mind. It's amazing how many helpful features are buried in the system that you only learn about from other people's experiences. Thanks for sharing that tip - definitely going to start using that going forward!
I'm brand new to collecting unemployment (just filed my first claim last week) and this entire thread has been incredibly helpful! I was definitely one of those people stressing about every little detail - worried that if I didn't certify at exactly the right time or in the perfect way, something would go wrong. Reading everyone's real experiences with different certification times but consistent Tuesday deposits is such a relief. I had no idea about batch processing or being able to check payment status on Monday nights either. It's clear this community really looks out for newcomers like me. Thanks to everyone for sharing your knowledge - it's going to make this whole process way less stressful!
Welcome to the community! I totally understand that stress when you're just starting out - I felt the exact same way when I first filed. This thread really does cover everything you need to know about timing, and it's so reassuring to see how consistent everyone's experiences are. One thing that really helped me when I was new was bookmarking the NY unemployment portal and checking it regularly just to get familiar with the interface. You'll quickly see how reliable the system actually is once you get into the rhythm. Don't hesitate to ask questions here - everyone's been through the same learning curve and this community is genuinely supportive!
Join the conversation
I'm going through this exact same situation right now! I've been hesitant about ID.me for weeks because I'm really uncomfortable with biometric data collection. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been super helpful - it's good to know there are actually alternatives even if they're not well-publicized. I think I'm going to try calling and requesting the "alternative identity verification accommodation process" like others mentioned. Even if it takes longer, having control over my personal data feels worth the wait. Has anyone who went the paper route had any issues with their documents getting lost in the mail? I'm thinking of sending everything certified mail with return receipt just to be safe.
I definitely recommend sending everything certified mail with return receipt! I did the paper verification back in February and was so nervous about documents getting lost. The certified mail gave me peace of mind - you get tracking and proof of delivery. Also make sure to keep copies of everything you send, including the completed DOL-X740 form. One tip: when you call to request the form, ask the agent for the exact mailing address because there are apparently different processing centers and using the wrong one can cause delays. Good luck with your decision - it's frustrating that we have to choose between privacy and timely benefits, but at least the option exists!
I just went through this same process last week! After reading all the advice here, I called using the phrase "alternative identity verification accommodation process" and got through to an agent who was really helpful. She explained that while the paper route takes 4-6 weeks longer, it's completely legitimate and they process these requests regularly. One thing I learned that might help others - the agent told me that if you're currently unemployed and need benefits urgently, you can actually start the paper verification process AND still use ID.me later if you change your mind. The paper application doesn't lock you out of the online option. She said some people start with paper for peace of mind, then switch to ID.me if their financial situation becomes too tight to wait. I ended up going with the paper route and sent everything certified mail yesterday. The waiting is hard, but I feel much better about protecting my biometric data. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - this thread was incredibly helpful!
This is really helpful to know that you can start with paper and still switch to ID.me later if needed! I hadn't realized that was an option. That actually makes me feel a lot better about trying the paper route first - it's like having a backup plan if my financial situation gets too desperate to wait the extra weeks. Thanks for sharing that detail from your conversation with the agent. I'm definitely going to mention that "alternative identity verification accommodation process" phrase when I call. Did the agent give you any estimate on current processing times for paper applications, or is it still that 4-6 week range everyone's been mentioning?
That's such a relief to know you can switch methods later! I've been stressing about this decision for weeks. When the agent explained the paper process to you, did they mention anything about what happens if there's an issue with your mailed documents? Like if they need additional verification or if something is unclear - do they contact you by phone or mail? I'm worried about sending everything in and then having it sit in limbo if there's a small problem that could be easily resolved with a quick phone call.
Join the conversation
I was in a similar situation last year with a different state agency. The key thing that helped my case was documenting everything - get any communication about the unpaid leave in writing if possible. When you file, be very clear that this is budget-related, not disciplinary, and that you have no definite return date. Also emphasize that you're able and available for other work during this period. The fact that they specifically said it's "not a layoff" might actually work in your favor since it shows the indefinite nature of the situation. Don't let the bureaucracy discourage you from filing - you're in a legitimate gray area that deserves individual review.
This is really helpful advice, thank you! I do have the email from HR about the unpaid leave and it specifically mentions the budget situation. They were pretty vague about timing though - just said "indefinite due to fiscal constraints." Should I also mention that I'm actively looking for other work in the meantime? I want to make sure I'm being completely honest about my availability.
Yes, definitely mention that you're actively looking for other work! That's actually a requirement for unemployment benefits - you need to demonstrate that you're able, available, and actively seeking employment. The fact that you're job searching shows NYS Department of Labor that you're not just sitting around waiting for your old position to come back, which strengthens your case. Keep records of your job search activities too (applications submitted, interviews attended, etc.) since they may ask for proof during your weekly certifications. Your situation with the indefinite budget-related leave and active job search sounds like it should qualify, but getting that documented properly in your initial filing is crucial.
This is exactly what I needed to hear! I've been worried about filing because I wasn't sure if being on "leave" would disqualify me, but it sounds like my situation is actually pretty textbook for unemployment benefits. I've already started job searching and have been keeping a spreadsheet of applications, so I should be good on that front. One quick question - when you say "documented properly in your initial filing," do you mean I should upload the HR email as supporting documentation, or just reference it in the application text? I want to make sure I give them all the relevant details upfront rather than having to explain later.
@Jackson Carter Both! I d'upload the HR email as supporting documentation AND reference the key details in your application text. When filling out the initial claim, there s'usually a section where you can explain your separation from work - use that space to clearly state it s'an indefinite unpaid leave due to budget constraints, not disciplinary action. Having the documentation uploaded gives them something concrete to review, but explaining it in your own words in the application ensures they understand the situation right away. Don t'assume they ll'read the attachments first - make your case clear in both places.
Javier Torres
I went through a similar situation about a year ago after being released. You definitely can collect unemployment in NY - the key is having enough work credits from before your incarceration. I'd recommend gathering all your employment documents (W-2s, pay stubs, etc.) before you apply online. One thing that helped me was contacting some reentry organizations like The Osborne Association or Center for Employment Opportunities - they have job counselors who understand the system and can help you navigate both the unemployment process and job searching with a record. They also count as valid job search contacts for your weekly certification. Don't get discouraged by the process - it can take a few weeks but you have rights to these benefits if you earned them.
0 coins
QuantumQuest
•This is exactly the kind of practical advice I was hoping for! Thank you @ea5bda5990dd for mentioning those specific organizations. I hadn't heard of The Osborne Association or Center for Employment Opportunities before. Do you know if they have locations throughout the state or are they mainly in NYC? Also, when you say they count as valid job search contacts - does that mean reaching out to their job counselors fulfills part of the weekly job search requirement?
0 coins
Emma Anderson
I'm in a similar situation and have been researching this extensively. One thing I learned is that NY actually has some protections for formerly incarcerated people applying for unemployment - they can't deny your claim solely based on your criminal history. What matters is your work history and earnings during the "base period" (typically the first 4 quarters of the last 5 completed quarters). Since you worked for 2 years at the warehouse, you likely have enough work credits. When you file online through ny.gov, focus on your work history and be honest about your availability to work. Also, start documenting your job search activities now - keep records of every application, contact, and interview because you'll need to certify weekly that you're actively seeking work. The system can be frustrating but you earned those benefits through your previous work.
0 coins
Axel Far
•This is really comprehensive advice, thank you @dd1b8aa2a47e! The point about NY having protections against discrimination based on criminal history for unemployment claims is reassuring. I'm going to start gathering all my W-2s from the warehouse job right away. Quick question - when you mention documenting job search activities, do you know if there's a specific number of job contacts required per week in NY? I want to make sure I'm meeting all the requirements from day one.
0 coins