


Ask the community...
Thanks everyone for the helpful advice! I've decided to be patient and NOT amend my return. I created an account to check my tax transcript as suggested and will keep an eye on it for those codes. It's been about 9 weeks since I filed, so I'll give it another month before I consider calling the IRS. Really appreciate all the insights!
Here's a comprehensive checklist for NY unemployment recertification in 2025: 1. Form UI-RQ25 (Recertification Questionnaire) 2. Form UI-WH25 (if you worked during your benefit year) 3. Copy of the recertification notice (keep your original) 4. Photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) 5. Last 3 paystubs (if applicable) 6. W-2s or 1099s from 2024 7. Form UI-CV25 (if you had address or banking changes) 8. Proof of job search activities (at least 3 per week) Make sure to write your claimant ID on every page, send via certified mail, and keep copies of everything. Processing is currently taking 3-4 weeks minimum.
This is GOLD. Thank you so much for the detailed checklist. Quick question - for the job search activities, do I need to use their specific form or can I just write them out on paper with dates and contact info?
You should use Form UI-JS25 (Job Search Record) which you can download from your online account. If you can't access that, a detailed list on paper is acceptable as long as it includes: date of contact, company name, position applied for, method of contact (email, phone, in person), contact person's name and info, and result of the contact. But the official form is always preferred.
Just wanted to update everyone - I used the Claimyr service that someone recommended above and actually got through to an agent! Took about 45 minutes instead of days of redialing. The agent confirmed everything about the documents needed and even sent me an email with links to download all the forms. Also, they said I could bring everything to the local office in person instead of mailing it if I'm worried about delays. Thanks everyone for your help!
Just a follow-up on this thread - for those dealing with backdating requests, here's what to expect in the process: 1. After submitting the backdating request, you'll likely need to wait 2-3 weeks for initial processing 2. If approved, you'll receive a notice to complete backdated certifications for all weeks you're claiming 3. After completing backdated certifications, payment typically takes another 1-2 weeks 4. If there are any issues with your backdated certifications, you may need to speak with a claims examiner The total process typically takes 3-5 weeks if everything goes smoothly. Document everything and be prepared to follow up regularly.
Has anyone had their backdating request denied? I'm worried they're going to reject mine and then I'll be completely out of options. My savings are almost gone and I don't know what I'll do if this doesn't work out. The anxiety is killing me!!!
Mine was initially "stuck in processing" for weeks until I was able to speak with someone directly. The online system doesn't handle these special cases well. That's why I mentioned the Claimyr service earlier - sometimes you need to actually talk to a human to get these complex issues resolved.
I had a similar question last month when I was talking to my tax guy about my 2024 returns. He said the tax exemption was super specific about which months were covered and there's definitely no automatic refund coming. He actually recommended keeping withholding ON for unemployment because the amount they take out is pretty small compared to what you might owe if you have other income too. When I did my taxes, I actually got some back because I had other deductions that offset it.
Good question for clarification. The exemption period applied to federal taxes only. New York State has its own tax treatment of unemployment benefits, which may differ. Always consult with a tax professional about your specific situation, especially if you have questions about state-specific tax treatments.
PixelPioneer
EVERYBODY saying "just call" has NO IDEA how impossible it is to get through right now!!! I called 50+ times a day for a WEEK and never got past the automated system. That's why I was stuck for 6 weeks! They're severely understaffed since the January 2025 system upgrade.
0 coins
Keisha Williams
•That's exactly why I ended up using that call connect service. The regular phone line is completely jammed. I calculated that I wasted about 22 hours trying to call before I found an alternative.
0 coins
Paolo Rizzo
Update: According to NYSDOL's latest announcement, they're automatically removing certain types of holds within 5 business days if they're related to the system verification process that started in January 2025. Check your email and the Message Center in your account for any communications about the specific type of hold.
0 coins
Zainab Ahmed
•Just checked my Message Center and there's nothing explaining the hold. I'm going to try calling tomorrow morning. Thanks everyone for your help - at least now I know I need to talk to someone directly and that I can ask about an emergency funds release for my rent.
0 coins