My cousin works for NYSDOL (not in unemployment though) and she said they're extremely understaffed right now. Apparently they lost like 30% of their call center staff since January and haven't replaced them. Not making excuses for them, just explaining why it's so hard to get through. The backpay requests are all going into a giant queue that's barely being processed.

Just wanted to update - I finally got my backpay issue resolved this morning! After seeing the suggestions here, I tried several approaches: 1. Called the Spanish line - got through but they just transferred me to the English queue where I waited 2 hours before being disconnected 2. Contacted my assembly member - they took my info but said it could be 2-3 weeks before they can help 3. Used Claimyr (claimyr.com) - got connected to an agent in about 25 minutes The agent found that my backpay was held because of a "verification inconsistency" between my application and my employer's quarterly report. They fixed it on the spot, and said I should receive all payments within 3-5 business days. She also gave me a direct reference number for the case. Hope this helps anyone else in a similar situation!

I saw someone mention Safety Net Assistance - just a heads up that it has very strict asset limits. They check your bank accounts and everything. Unemployment doesn't have asset limits, just earnings requirements, which is why it's worth fighting for if you're close to qualifying.

Any update? Were you able to get through to anyone about recalculating your base period?

has anyone else noticed that they NEVER send you email updates about backpay reviews?? like they'll email about regular stuff but when it comes to actually giving you YOUR money suddenly they go silent

UPDATE: I just wanted to thank everyone for your advice! I tried calling using that Claimyr service that @profile6 mentioned, and I actually got through to a claims specialist in about 15 minutes! The agent confirmed my account was flagged for fraud review due to login attempts from multiple locations (which I never did - definitely someone trying to hack my account). She escalated my case and said I should see my back pay within 7-10 business days. She also noted that they needed an additional form of ID verification which I was able to provide while on the call. Fingers crossed this finally resolves it! Will update again when/if the money comes through.

Here's my advice after helping many people with NY unemployment claims:\n\n1. Apply immediately - don't wait until September\n2. When asked why you delayed filing, be honest that you thought you'd find work quickly\n3. Start documenting your work search activities going forward (3 per week minimum)\n4. Try to gather evidence of past job search efforts if possible\n5. Be prepared for possible follow-up questions about your gap in filing\n\nBased on your work history (all of 2024 and January 2025), you should meet the wage requirements if you had standard employment with regular wages.

Thank you so much. This is incredibly helpful. I'm going to apply today and follow all your advice.

i got denied after waiting 7 weeks. applying for a hearing now but thats another 2-3 month wait they said. this system is designed to make ppl give up istg

TIP: Call the TTY/TDD line instead of the regular number. It's 1-888-783-1370. Sometimes the wait is shorter there and they can still help regular claims. That's how I finally got through after two weeks of constant calling. The representative was able to see notes on my account and told me exactly what was holding things up.