Based on what you've described, there are several potential causes for this delay: 1. Identity verification issues - very common in 2025 with the new security protocols 2. Employer response delays - they have 10 business days to respond to claims 3. Wage discrepancy investigation 4. Prior claim issues that need resolution 5. Work search documentation gaps Here's what you should do: 1. Request to speak specifically with a claims examiner, not just a general rep 2. Ask for the specific issue code on your account (they can see this) 3. Request a supervisor if they won't provide details 4. Mention Section 590.1 of NY Labor Law which requires prompt payment of benefits 5. Submit a message through your online account specifically requesting claim status detail The fact that you received a monetary determination is actually positive - it means you're financially eligible. The hold-up is likely related to one of the non-monetary eligibility factors.

Any updates on your situation? Were you able to get through and find out what's happening with your claim?

I went through this exact situation 2 years ago when our local went on strike for 5 weeks. The unemployment denial was tough but here's what helped me get through it: 1) Applied for emergency SNAP benefits immediately - the process was faster than I expected, 2) Called my credit card companies and mortgage lender to explain the situation - most had temporary hardship programs, 3) Our union organized carpools and shared resources which saved on gas/groceries. Also check if your union has agreements with local businesses for discounts during strikes. Mine had deals with a few grocery stores that helped stretch the strike fund money. Stay strong and remember this is temporary - the financial stress is real but you're fighting for something important.

I'm sorry you're facing this difficult situation. As others have mentioned, New York State does not allow unemployment benefits during strikes since it's considered a voluntary work stoppage. However, I wanted to add that you should document everything from this period - strike notices, union communications, dates, etc. This documentation could be helpful if your employment situation changes after the strike ends. Also, if you're a union member, make sure you understand all the benefits your union provides during strikes beyond just the strike fund - some locals have arrangements for healthcare continuation, legal aid, or connections to temporary work that doesn't conflict with strike activities. It's worth having a detailed conversation with your union representatives about all available resources. Hang in there - this is a challenging time but you're standing up for important workplace rights.

Just want to add that withdrawing your appeal is definitely the right move if you're certain about your situation. I had a similar experience where I realized I didn't have a strong case after filing my appeal. The key thing to remember is that withdrawing doesn't hurt you any more than the original disqualification already did. When you do apply for benefits in the future (assuming it's for a legitimate reason), they'll evaluate that new claim on its own merits. The previous disqualification won't automatically disqualify you from future benefits as long as your next job separation is qualifying. Just make sure to follow the advice others gave about getting everything in writing and keeping records of your withdrawal request.

I work for a legal aid organization that helps with unemployment cases, and I want to emphasize that withdrawing your appeal is absolutely a valid option when you've reassessed your situation. The fact that you're being realistic about your chances shows good judgment. One thing I'd add to the excellent advice already given - when you send your withdrawal request, include your full name, Social Security number, and case/appeal number to make sure they can process it quickly. Also, if you have any documentation from when you originally filed the appeal, reference that in your withdrawal letter. The Appeals Office handles these requests routinely, so don't worry about it being unusual. You're making a smart decision to withdraw rather than potentially making your situation worse at a hearing.

You definitely should appeal this. Willful misconduct requires intent to harm the employer or deliberate disregard for their interests. Simple policy violations might not meet that standard depending on the circumstances. The appeal process gives you a chance to present your side and challenge their interpretation.

I work in employment law and see these cases regularly. The key thing to understand is that NYS Department of Labor defines willful misconduct more broadly than most people expect. It's not just criminal behavior - it includes any deliberate violation of reasonable employer rules after you've been given notice that the behavior needs to stop. Since you had two written warnings about phone use, they likely have a strong case. However, you should still appeal because sometimes the employer's documentation is inadequate or the policy wasn't clearly communicated. The worst that happens is you lose the appeal, but you might win if there are gaps in their evidence.

I'm currently dealing with the same exact situation - week 4 of pending status and getting absolutely nowhere with the regular NYSDOL channels! This thread has been incredibly helpful in showing there are actual solutions beyond the endless automated phone loops. @Sean Kelly congratulations on finally getting your backpay - the employer verification issue explanation is really eye-opening since my former employer has also been slow to respond to documentation requests. @Emma Wilson the Office of Special Investigations complaint option is something I never would have found on my own - definitely adding that to my backup plan! @Giovanni Mancini your point about systematic documentation is spot on, I've been loosely tracking my failed calls but need to start recording reference numbers and dates more carefully. It's both frustrating and reassuring to know so many others are stuck in identical situations - really highlights how broken this system is. Based on all the success stories shared here, I'm planning to contact my assembly person first thing tomorrow morning. This community has provided more actionable advice in one thread than weeks of trying to navigate official channels. Will definitely update with my results - thank you everyone for sharing what actually works instead of the usual "keep calling" advice that goes nowhere!

I'm currently on week 3 of pending status and this thread has been a lifesaver! Reading everyone's experiences has given me hope that there's actually a way out of this nightmare. @Sean Kelly so glad you finally got your backpay - the employer verification issue makes perfect sense since my previous company has been dragging their feet on everything post-termination. @Emma Wilson I had no clue about the Office of Special Investigations complaint option, that's definitely going on my list of backup strategies! @Giovanni Mancini your documentation advice is gold - I've been casually tracking my failed calls but clearly need to get more systematic about recording reference numbers and dates. It's incredible how this community has figured out what actually works while the official system just leaves you hanging in limbo. I'm calling my assembly person's office first thing Monday based on all these success stories. The fact that so many of us are dealing with identical situations really shows how fundamentally broken this system is, but at least we're helping each other find real solutions! Will definitely report back with my progress. Thank you everyone for sharing actionable advice instead of the useless "keep trying" responses you get from official channels.