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.

FYI its working for me now just certified 5 mins ago

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.

Have you tried reaching out to them on social media? Sometimes tweeting at them or messaging on Facebook can get a faster response.

If all else fails, you might want to consider hiring an unemployment advocate. They cost money, but they know the system inside and out and can often get results faster.

This might sound weird, but have you tried reaching out to them on Twitter? I've seen some people get responses that way. Worth a shot! 🤷‍♀️

Guys I'm telling you, we need to organize and demand better from our government agencies. This is ridiculous. Who's with me? ✊