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anybody else notice how they always say 'today or tomorrow' for EVERYTHING? lol when i was on unemployment they told me the same thing about my letter, about my payments, about my interview... its like their script or something
When you receive your Monetary Determination letter, here's what to check: 1. Verify all employers from your base period are listed 2. Confirm the wages shown match your records 3. Check if the weekly benefit amount seems correct (approximately 50% of your average weekly wage up to the maximum of $650) If anything is incorrect, you have 30 days to request a review by submitting a Request for Reconsideration. You can do this through your online account under 'Secure Messages' with supporting documentation like W-2s and pay stubs. The good news is that payments are typically released quickly once the determination is finalized, especially if you've been consistently certifying each week.
This is incredibly helpful, thank you! Is the base period the last 4 completed quarters before I filed, or is it different in NY? I had a job change about 8 months ago and want to make sure both employers are counted.
In NY, the standard base period is the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you filed. If you don't qualify using that period, they'll use the alternate base period, which is the last 4 completed quarters. With a job change 8 months ago, both employers should be included in either base period calculation, but double-check the letter to make sure.
Update on my earlier advice: I just learned NYSDOL changed their phone system last month. Now the best time to call is actually between 7:30-7:45 AM (yes, before they officially open). The queue starts accepting callers earlier than advertised. Also, when prompted for your PIN, enter it VERY slowly with pauses between each number. This sometimes bypasses the standard menu tree and gets you to an agent faster. Good luck!
UPDATE: I finally got through to a live agent this morning!!! Used Claimyr and had a call back with an agent in about 30 mins. The rep said my backpay was stuck because of a "wage verification hold" that needed manual override. She processed all 4 weeks while I was on the phone and said the money should be in my account within 2-3 business days. SUCH A RELIEF!!! Thank you everyone for your suggestions and help!!
That's awesome! Glad it worked out for you. Nothing beats actually talking to a human who can fix things.
Just to clarify on the refiling process: Mark your calendar for September 20th. Not the 19th (your BYE date) but the day after. Log in early that morning to file your new claim. Have all your employment information from the past 18 months ready, including any part-time work. For the student question, the most important thing is to show that school doesn't interfere with your ability to search for and accept suitable full-time work. Online classes are definitely viewed more favorably since they offer flexibility. Night classes are also generally acceptable since they don't conflict with typical business hours. Don't volunteer too much information about your student status unless directly asked. Answer honestly but concisely.
btw if the system isnt letting u certify this week call them right away. might be an issue with ur account that needs fixing before ur BYE date
Anybody else think it's crazy we're all still using these KeyBank cards in 2025? Most states switched to better options years ago.
Update us when your card starts working! I'm curious if it will take the full 72 hours or less. My guess is you'll have access by tomorrow.
Ryan Andre
I had this same worry back in January! Turns out DOL sent me the notification email but it went to my spam folder, so I almost missed it. Make sure you're checking all your email folders and also log into your NY.gov account regularly to check for messages there too. They usually give you about 2-3 weeks notice before you need to take action.
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Mia Roberts
•That's a good point! I'll check my spam folder regularly. Would hate to miss an important notification because of that.
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The Boss
To summarize what everyone has said: 1. Do NOT file a new claim until your current one is exhausted or you're instructed to do so 2. The September 5th deadline only matters if your benefit year is ending before that date 3. The system will notify you 2-3 weeks before any action is needed 4. Filing early can create serious problems that take weeks or months to resolve The best thing you can do right now is keep certifying weekly as normal and wait for official instructions from NYSDOL.
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Mia Roberts
•Thank you for this clear summary! I feel much better now. I'll just keep certifying weekly and watch for notifications. Really appreciate everyone's help!
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