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Update on the backpay situation: As of March 2025, the NYSDOL has implemented new procedures for backpay claims over $20,000. These now require a secondary review by the Backpay Verification Team. The current processing times are: - $5,000-$19,999: Approximately 4-6 weeks - $20,000-$49,999: Approximately 12-16 weeks - $50,000+: Approximately 16-24 weeks These timeframes are from the date of backpay approval, not from the date of initial claim filing. Since you're at 6 months, you should request to speak with a supervisor specifically about the Backpay Verification status. There's a specific status code they can check that regular agents don't typically access.
This is incredibly helpful information. It's frustrating that none of the agents I've spoken with have explained this process to me. I'm going to call tomorrow and specifically ask about the Backpay Verification Team and request a supervisor who can check that status code. I'll update here if I make any progress!
I finally got my backpay after 7 months of waiting! What worked for me was documenting EVERY single call (date, time, agent ID, what they promised) and then sending that documentation to both my state senator AND assemblyperson offices. Include all the details about your hardship situation too. The legislative offices have special contacts at NYSDOL that can actually get things moving.
Thanks everyone for the advice! She's going to try calling tomorrow morning when they first open. I told her to be prepared for a long wait but to be persistent. I'll let you know how it goes if anyone's curious.
Good luck!! The early morning strategy sometimes works but honestly it's a total crapshoot with their phone system. If she can't get through, maybe try that Claimyr thing someone mentioned above?
UPDATE: She couldn't get through this morning after trying for 2 hours. She's going to try the Claimyr service tomorrow. I'll update again when we know something!
Have you tried checking your refund status online? The NY Tax Department has a "Where's My Refund" tool on their website where you can check the status without calling. Also, double-check that your banking information is correct in your tax filing - sometimes refunds get returned if there's an issue with the direct deposit information.
Just wanted to update - I called the Tax Department this morning using the number someone shared above. After 45 minutes on hold, I gave up and decided to try Claimyr. I got connected to a Tax Department representative within 30 minutes! Turns out there was an issue with my address verification (I moved in January) that was holding everything up. The representative removed the hold and said I should receive my refund within 2-3 weeks. So relieved to finally have an answer!
BTW my neighbor had their bankruptcy case temporarily suspended because of unemployment issues. The court gave them 90 days of reduced payments until benefits kicked in. DONT listen to people saying you have to wait 10 weeks - that's the standard garbage they tell EVERYONE to get you off the phone. The system is designed to frustrate you into giving up!!!
That's reassuring to hear about your neighbor! I have a call with my bankruptcy attorney tomorrow morning. Were they able to keep their home during this process?
Yes they kept their home! The court understands when there's a legitimate reason for payment problems - especially when it's the STATE'S fault for not processing benefits on time. Just make sure your attorney files the right paperwork showing it's temporary and provide proof you've applied for unemployment.
Any updates? Were you able to get through to someone who could actually help? I'm really curious if any of these suggestions worked for you because I know how frustrating the whole system can be.
Quick update: I ended up using Claimyr yesterday and got through to a tier 2 agent who found the problem! Apparently my claim was flagged for "employer verification" even though my employer already verified everything. The agent was able to override this and said I should see payments in 3-5 business days for ALL back weeks. Also met with my bankruptcy attorney who's filing for temporary hardship modification. Feeling much more hopeful now!
Freya Pedersen
Another important point: If you're waiting for a refund related to unemployment taxes but can't access your transcript online, you can request it by mail using Form 4506-T. It's free and will show if the IRS has processed any adjustments to your account. Takes about 10 business days to arrive.
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GalacticGuru
•mail is so slow tho. i waited almost a month for mine not 10 days lol. but yea better than nothing if u cant get the online version
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Omar Fawaz
Wait I'm still confused about something... are you talking about a NEW unemployment tax refund for 2025? Or are you still trying to get the old one from 2020-2021? Because those are totally different things and I haven't heard about any new unemployment tax exemption for 2025???
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Chloe Anderson
•You're right to question this. There is currently NO unemployment tax exemption for 2025. The 2020-2021 exemption was a one-time pandemic relief measure. Unless Congress passes new legislation (which they haven't as of now), unemployment benefits received in 2025 are fully taxable with no special refund program.
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