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Just checking back - did you ever get through to them? I'm curious if any of these suggestions worked for you.
Yes! I finally got through yesterday! I tried calling on Thursday around 3:15 PM like someone suggested and used the exact menu options that were recommended. Still had to wait about 45 minutes on hold, but eventually got connected to an agent who was actually really helpful. She said there was an issue with my identity verification that needed to be manually reviewed. They fixed it on the spot and said my claim should be processed within 3 business days. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for all your suggestions!
UPDATE: I finally got through to a representative! They explained that there was indeed a system error. Apparently, when I certified for those two weeks while working full-time, the system incorrectly processed them as if I had received benefits (even though I reported working 5 days and received $0). This caused my benefit balance to incorrectly show as exhausted. The rep fixed it on their end and my correct remaining balance is now showing. They advised that in the future, if I'm working more than 4 days consistently, I should stop certifying until I need benefits again.
I'm in a completely different situation but reading this thread made me realize I've been making a similar mistake! I've been working 3 days a week and certifying but I think I've been answering one of the questions wrong... now I'm worried I've messed up my claim. Has anyone had to do a backdated certification correction before?
Yes, you can request backdated certification corrections. Call NYSDOL and explain exactly which weeks and what information needs to be corrected. They may ask you to submit documentation through your online account or by mail. Just be honest about the mistake - they're generally understanding if it was unintentional.
This is a known issue happening today. According to the NYSDOL Twitter account (@NYSLabor), they're experiencing higher than normal traffic due to the quarterly tax filing deadline coinciding with regular certification activity. They've increased server capacity and expect the system to be fully operational by 6pm today. In the meantime, you can also try the automated phone certification system at 1-888-581-5812 which appears to be working normally.
I got approved for tourism fund but it took FOREVER and the extra 13 weeks didn't start until my regular benefits ran out. Don't expect it to be quick. The whole process is stupid and feels designed to make people give up. Typical NY bureaucracy nightmare.
Thank you everyone for all the helpful information! I finally was able to get through to an agent using that Claimyr service (it really did work in just a few minutes). The agent confirmed I'm eligible since our hotel was in the Niagara tourism zone, and she helped me find the right forms in my account. Apparently I need both UI-TRF25 and the employer certification form. I've already contacted my former manager to fill out their part. The agent also mentioned that while my application is processing, my regular benefits will continue normally. Once approved, I'll get an extension of 13 weeks after my regular benefits end, plus access to some retraining programs if I want them. I really appreciate all the help from everyone here!
StarSeeker
Great! Glad to hear it was resolved. This is a good reminder for everyone that sometimes what appears to be a benefit year ending can actually be a technical issue. Always best to speak with a representative before assuming you need to file a new claim.
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Sofia Ramirez
Absolutely! And for anyone reading this later - it took me 3 hours of calling but I finally got through around 10:30am. Don't give up!
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