DETAILED GUIDE FOR GETTING THROUGH: After dealing with this for months, here's what I learned: 1. Regular phone lines are overwhelmed, especially midday 2. Using claimyr.com is honestly the fastest way - they handle the hold time for you 3. Have your claim info ready when you get through 4. Be super nice to the rep, they're dealing with angry people all day 5. Take detailed notes during your call I know paying $20 seems annoying but its better than wasting days trying to get through. The service at claimyr.com is legit and they guarantee you'll get through or money back. Good luck everyone!

Just wanted to say thank you to everyone who mentioned claimyr.com - I was skeptical at first but decided to give it a shot after reading all the positive feedback here. Used it yesterday and actually got through to a rep in about 90 minutes! Finally got my claim sorted out after being stuck for 3 weeks. The $20 fee felt steep but honestly it was so worth it compared to the stress and time I was wasting calling dozens of times a day. For anyone still on the fence, I'd definitely recommend giving it a try - the peace of mind alone is worth it when you're dealing with bills piling up.

Yeah I remember when I first filed it was so confusing! Make sure you answer all the questions honestly, especially about why you lost your job. If you were laid off due to lack of work, that's usually straightforward. But if there were any performance issues or anything like that, be prepared for them to ask follow up questions.

I went through this same process about 6 months ago and it's definitely overwhelming at first! One tip that really helped me - before you start the online application, gather all your documents in one place. You'll want your Social Security card, driver's license, and if you have them, your last few pay stubs and any separation paperwork from your employer. Even if you don't have everything perfect, don't let that stop you from filing. The system is pretty user-friendly once you get started, and you can always update information later if needed. The most important thing is to get that initial claim filed as soon as possible!

side question but does anyone know if we get backpay if benefits are delayed? mine have been pending for 3 weeks now 😫

Just went through this exact situation last month! I had orientation on a Wednesday (4 hours) and was so confused about how to answer. I called the NYSDOL hotline (took forever to get through) and they confirmed that ANY work, even orientation or training, means you answer YES to "returned to work." The good news is you'll still get partial benefits for that week since you only worked 1 day. Just make sure to report the exact amount you earned during that hour too - even if it was just minimum wage for paperwork time. The system automatically calculates your partial benefit amount. Keep certifying weekly until you're working your regular full-time schedule. Don't stress too much about it - as long as you're honest with your reporting, you'll be fine!

Just want to add that you should definitely keep track of your job search activities from day one even while waiting for approval. The NYS Department of Labor requires proof that you're actively looking for work, and they can ask for your job search log at any time.

I went through this process about 6 months ago and it took exactly 3 weeks to get my first payment. The key thing is to make sure all your information is accurate when you file - any discrepancies can delay the process significantly. Also, don't panic if your claim status stays "pending" for a while, that's totally normal. The NYS Department of Labor processes thousands of claims so it just takes time. In the meantime, you might want to reach out to local food banks or community assistance programs if you're worried about making rent. Most landlords are also understanding if you explain the situation and show them your pending unemployment claim.

The unemployment system is so confusing and they don't explain anything clearly. I remember being stressed about every little detail when I filed. Just make sure you answer all the questions honestly about why you're unemployed and keep track of your job search activities from day one.

@Kara, one more tip - when you file online, make sure you have your Social Security card, driver's license, and employment records handy. The system will ask for specific dates and wage information from your last employer. Also, if you worked for multiple employers in the past 18 months, you'll need that info too since they look at your earnings over the "base period" to determine your benefit amount. The whole application took me about 30 minutes when I had everything ready. Good luck!