


Ask the community...
The same exact thing happened to my cousin last year and it was a NIGHTMARE to fix!!!! The unemployment system in this state is completely BROKEN!! They take WEEKS to process anything and you can never reach anyone on the phone. Its absolutely CRIMINAL how they treat people!!!!
Quick question - now that I've updated my direct deposit info, should I still activate the MetaBank card? Will my current payment be on there or will it go to my bank account?
Yes, you should still activate the card. Any payments that were already processed before you updated your direct deposit information will be on the card. Only future payments will go to your bank account. The paperwork that came with the card should explain how to check your balance and access those funds.
my brother just went thru this whole mess and it turned out the employer reported his wages for the wrong quarter which is what triggered the whole overpayment thing. make sure your friend checks what quarters they're claiming he was overpaid for and compare with his actual work history
One last important thing your friend should know: if the overpayment determination is upheld after fact-finding, he can still request a waiver of the overpayment if it would cause financial hardship AND the overpayment wasn't his fault. NY unemployment has become more lenient with these waivers since the 2025 policy updates. The waiver form asks for detailed financial information to demonstrate that repayment would cause significant hardship. Success rates for these waivers increased to about 65% this year, up from around 30% in previous years. Even if the overpayment is determined to be valid, there are still options available to him.
Just so everyone is clear: When the phone system goes silent after saying "do not hang up," your certification is NOT being processed. This is a system error. You need to either: 1. Use the NY.gov website to certify (preferred method) 2. Try the phone system during off-peak hours 3. Try the workaround mentioned above (waiting 2 minutes then pressing 1) 4. Call the main customer service line to speak with an agent The NYSDOL has confirmed this is a technical issue they're working to resolve. Make sure you get your certification completed by your deadline to avoid payment delays. If you miss your regular certification period due to this issue, you'll need to speak with an agent to file for back weeks.
trying to speak to an agent is IMPOSSIBLE!!!! been calling for days!!! how are we supposed to fix this if no one answers??!!
I understand your frustration. The fastest way right now is definitely to use the website if possible. If you absolutely must speak to an agent, try calling right at 8:00 AM when they open, or consider using one of the call connection services that others have mentioned in this thread. I hope you get through soon!
Update: Just wanted to let everyone know that I started using the website for certification and it's been working perfectly. Much easier than dealing with the phone system! My payments have been processing normally. Thanks to everyone who helped with suggestions!
Glad to hear it! The website has been working for me too. They really need to fix that phone system though, not everyone has good internet access.
Has anyone here ever successfully appealed a denial? I'm wondering if that's what I'll need to do next if I can't get through on the phone. Is there a specific form or process for that in NY?
Yes, you can request a hearing to appeal a denial. You have 30 days from the date on your determination letter to request an appeal. The form is online in your NY.gov account under "Forms and Documents" or you can call and request one. Make sure to have documentation ready that supports your case - pay stubs, employment dates, etc. The hearing is usually done by phone with an administrative law judge.
UPDATE: Finally got through this morning! Called right at 8am and only waited about 25 minutes. The agent said they were using my wrong base period and that I DO qualify! She fixed it right there and said I should see my determination update in 2-3 business days. So relieved! Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions.
CosmicCruiser
Back in 2023 I never got my 1099-G in the mail for some reason but it was in my online account the whole time! Check there first. Also make sure you're looking in the right section - it's not super obvious where they put it. Go to Unemployment Services and look for "1099-G Tax Forms" in the menu. Took me forever to find it the first time.
0 coins
Malik Davis
UPDATE: Mine just appeared in my online account! For anyone still waiting, definitely keep checking your NY.gov account. Under Unemployment Services there's a section specifically for tax forms. I never got an email notification that it was ready, just happened to check and it's there now. Thanks everyone for your help!
0 coins
Omar Hassan
•awesome! glad you found it!
0 coins