Don't panic yet! Many of these overpayment determinations get overturned on appeal. The key is to respond quickly and provide thorough documentation. Make sure you understand exactly what they're claiming - was it an issue with your separation reason, earnings reporting, or availability for work? Each type of issue requires different evidence to dispute.

I'm going through something similar right now - got a notice for $2,800 from benefits I received in early 2021. What's really confusing is that I was definitely eligible at the time and followed all the rules. I'm wondering if this is related to some kind of audit they're doing now? Has anyone found out what specific issues they're finding with people's cases? I'm preparing my appeal but want to understand what I'm dealing with first.

This entire thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm in the exact same situation - just reapplied after working for about 7 months and couldn't remember if I selected direct deposit or the debit card option. My KeyBank card is from early 2024 and doesn't expire until 2027, so based on everyone's experiences here, it sounds like they should reuse it. I'm definitely going to call that KeyBank number (1-866-295-2955) that several people mentioned to verify it's still active before my first payment. It's so much better getting real advice from people who've actually been through this rather than trying to decipher the official government websites! Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - this has saved me a lot of anxiety and phone calls to unemployment.

I'm in almost the exact same situation! Just got approved for benefits again after working for about 11 months. I have a KeyBank card from 2023 that expires in 2026, but I've been so worried about whether it's still active since I haven't used it in almost a year. This thread has been a huge relief - sounds like they'll most likely reuse the existing card if it's not expired. Definitely calling that KeyBank number (1-866-295-2955) tomorrow to check if it's still active before my first payment is due. Thanks everyone for sharing your real experiences! This is way more helpful than anything I could find on the official sites.

One thing to consider is whether your condition might improve enough to return to work. If there's a chance your back could get better with treatment, you might want to continue with unemployment while pursuing medical care. But if doctors are saying it's a permanent disability, then yes, you'll need to transition. Just document everything carefully and keep all medical records.

I went through a similar transition about 2 years ago. The most important thing is to be completely honest about your medical condition with both systems. If your doctor is documenting that you can't work due to disability, continuing to certify for unemployment could be considered fraud. I'd recommend getting a clear medical assessment first - if your doctor says you're temporarily unable to work but may recover, that's different from permanent disability. For the transition, I called NYS Department of Labor to formally close my claim before applying for disability, which helped avoid any overpayment issues. The waiting period for disability is brutal (mine took 5 months), so see if you have any family support or look into local emergency assistance programs. Also keep detailed records of all your medical appointments and communications with both agencies.

Good luck with this whole process... the unemployment system is such a mess. Even when you do everything right they find ways to delay or deny claims. I hope you have better luck than I did.

I just want to add that when you do get your medical clearance, make sure you have all your employment documentation ready too. Since you worked full-time for 18 months before your leave, you should definitely meet the work history requirements. But NYS Department of Labor will want to see proof of your wages during your base period. I'd recommend gathering your pay stubs or W-2s now so you're prepared when you can actually file. The transition from SDI to unemployment can be smooth if you have everything organized beforehand.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - injured my knee in a slip and fall at work and can't do my retail job that requires standing all day. From what I've learned, the most important thing is being upfront about your limitations when you file. NYS Department of Labor wants to see that you're "able and available" for some type of work, even if it's not your usual job. I've been applying to customer service positions I can do from home and data entry jobs that don't require physical activity. The weekly certifications ask specifically about your job search, so I keep a spreadsheet of every application I submit. One tip - when you register on the job portal, make sure to set up job alerts for remote or office work so you can show consistent search activity. Good luck with your recovery!

I'm currently going through this exact situation - injured my shoulder at a manufacturing job and can't do heavy lifting for 4-6 weeks. What I've learned is that NYS Department of Labor focuses on whether you're "able and available" for SOME type of work, not necessarily your previous job. I got approved by being very specific about what work I could still perform (desk work, phone jobs, light assembly) and showing active job searches in those areas. The key documents that helped me were: 1) A detailed doctor's note listing specific work restrictions AND capabilities, 2) A log of job applications for suitable positions, and 3) Screenshots of my active job searches on Indeed, LinkedIn, etc. I also registered with temp agencies that specialize in office work. The whole process took about 10 days from application to first payment. Don't let the injury discourage you from applying - as long as you can demonstrate you're seeking work within your medical limits, you should qualify. Just be completely honest on your weekly certifications about your restrictions and job search efforts.