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!

Quick update - I just saw your post and wanted to mention something important. If you do contact your state representative, make sure to highlight how long you've been trying to resolve this (almost 2 years). Representatives' offices prioritize cases based partly on urgency and time elapsed. Also, be prepared with your NY.gov ID number, the exact weeks you're missing payments for, and documentation of your attempts to contact DOL. The more organized your information is, the faster they can help you.

I had a similar issue but was missing payments from November 2023. What ended up working for me was sending a direct email to the Commissioner's Office (I found the email address on the NYSDOL website contact page). I didn't get a response to my email, but about 10 days later I got a call from someone at the DOL who said they were following up on my email to the Commissioner. They fixed my issue on that call and I got my missing payments the following week. I think sometimes you need to escalate beyond the regular channels. The regular phone lines and messaging system seem completely overwhelmed.

To address your follow-up question - yes, 'pending' status means they haven't made a determination on your claim yet. This is normal for partial unemployment claims where hours fluctuate, as the system requires additional verification. Regarding the averaging question you asked someone else - New York doesn't technically use an 'averaging' system. Instead, they calculate your benefits on a week-by-week basis. For each week, they check if you worked fewer than 4 days AND earned less than $595 (the current maximum threshold for 2025). If you meet both criteria for a given week, you qualify for partial benefits for that week only. So your one 40-hour week won't disqualify you for other weeks, but you won't receive benefits for that specific week.

Exactly. Keep claiming week by week. For any week you work 4+ days OR earn $595+, you'll report that and won't receive benefits for that week only. But you'll still be in the system and can claim for future weeks when your hours are reduced again. As for speeding up your pending status - contacting an agent can help, as they can sometimes release payments that are stuck in review. Based on current processing times, if you're still pending after 3-4 weeks, it's definitely worth trying to speak with someone.

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!!!

Another option to consider would be applying for Emergency Assistance to Families (EAF) through your local Department of Social Services. This is designed for temporary financial crises like yours. The application process is separate from both unemployment and disability. You'll need documentation of your medical situation and financial need.

To summarize your options: 1. Check if you qualify for NY disability through a previous employer (if you worked within the last 26 weeks before your injury) 2. Apply for emergency assistance through DSS while waiting to be cleared for work 3. Once medically cleared, apply/reapply for unemployment if your employer still doesn't have work available 4. Consider calling 211 (United Way helpline) which can connect you with additional local resources The key is documenting everything - keep copies of all medical records, work communications, and application confirmations.