One more thing to consider: if your husband takes part-time work while looking for full-time employment, he might still be eligible for partial unemployment benefits, even under Safety Net. Many people don't realize this. As long as he works fewer than 4 days per week and earns less than the maximum benefit rate, he could receive a reduced benefit. This can be a good strategy to extend benefits while building experience in a new field. Just make sure he reports all earnings accurately during weekly certifications.

Thank you all for the helpful advice. I spoke with my husband and we're going to: 1. Keep applying for jobs but expand beyond just restaurants 2. Try to contact NYSDOL directly about Safety Net benefits using that calling service 3. Look into the career center retraining programs 4. Check what part-time options might be available to extend benefits It's really scary being in this situation but your advice has given us some direction. I'll update if we learn anything that might help others.

Since you've discovered the ID verification code, here's what you need to do immediately: 1. Go to the "Document Upload" section of your account 2. Look for the option to submit identity verification documents 3. Upload clear images of TWO forms of ID (usually driver's license plus Social Security card or birth certificate) 4. After uploading, send a secure message referencing the uploaded documents and the ID code 5. In the subject line, use "URGENT: Identity Verification Documents Submitted - 4 Month Delay" The ID verification issues are very common in 2025 due to the new system. After uploading documents, it typically takes 7-14 days for review, but given how long you've already waited, I would follow up with your state representative immediately as well. They can often get these expedited.

Just checking back - any progress after uploading the identity documents? When I had an ID verification issue, it still took weeks of waiting after uploading before I finally used Claimyr to get through to someone who could manually review and approve the documents while I was on the phone. Something about seeing the docs but needing a manual override to clear the flag. Just wondering if you've had any movement yet?

Quick suggestion - while you're waiting, make sure all your weekly certifications are still being submitted correctly, even if you're working part-time. Some people focus so much on the backpay that they forget to keep certifying, which can create new problems. And congrats on the baby - when are you due?

FINAL UPDATE: My backpay finally came through! It took 9 days after getting my claim flagged for expedited processing. The full amount was deposited directly to my account this morning. Such a huge relief before the holidays. Thanks everyone for your help and advice! For anyone else in this situation, definitely try to speak with an agent directly about hardship expediting - it really worked!

One thing no one mentioned - you should also file for SNAP benefits (food assistance) at the same time if your income has dropped significantly. Many people qualify during unemployment but don't realize it. The application can be done online through NY's myBenefits website and it's completely separate from unemployment.

Make sure when you certify weekly you're answering EXACTLY correctly or they'll flag your account for review and freeze payments! Be hyper-literal with their questions. If you did ANY work, even an hour, report it. If you were 'unavailable' for work any day (like had a doctor's appointment) they count that too. The system is designed to catch people in tiny inconsistencies!

Just a thought - have you checked if your May certifications might be visible on your payment history page but just not processed yet? Sometimes they show up there in a "pending" status even when reps say they don't exist. The NYSDOL website is so poorly designed that different screens show different information. Also, did they give you any specific reason WHY the May claim "doesn't exist anymore"? Did someone cancel it? Did it expire? Was it rejected for some reason? Without an actual explanation, they're just giving you the runaround, and you deserve better than that!

Based on all the information in this thread, it sounds like you're dealing with a system error rather than an eligibility issue. Your best course of action is to: 1. Try to reach a Tier 2 specialist who can access the audit log as mentioned 2. Submit the TC-403.1 form as formal documentation of the issue 3. Continue weekly certifications even for past weeks if the system allows it 4. Request a formal determination letter that you can appeal if necessary The good news is that if you're entitled to these benefits, you will eventually receive them - including back pay for May. The bad news is that it may take persistent effort on your part. Don't give up! Document every contact attempt, follow up regularly, and be prepared to appeal if necessary.