I'm in the same boat - got approved 10 days ago but still no card! Reading through these comments, sounds like I should double check my address in the system and maybe call KeyBank if it hits the 2 week mark. Really don't want to get hit with late fees on my rent because of this delay 😩 Has anyone had luck getting emergency payments while waiting for the card?

Been through this exact same situation! My card took almost 2.5 weeks to arrive, which was super stressful. Here's what I learned: First, definitely verify your address is 100% correct in the NY.gov system - even small typos can cause major delays. Second, if you're past the 10 day mark, call KeyBank at 1-866-295-2955 to check the status. The hold times are terrible but you need to know if it was actually mailed. Third, seriously consider switching to direct deposit right now for future payments - it's so much faster and you won't have this anxiety again. You can change it in your online account under payment methods. The money that's already been issued to the card will still come on the card, but at least future payments will hit your bank directly. Hang in there, it will arrive!

Same boat here - had to close my photography business last year and couldn't get any unemployment. Ended up having to take a retail job just to qualify for benefits if I ever get laid off again. It's backwards but that's how the system works.

Have you considered looking into New York State's other assistance programs while you're figuring out the unemployment situation? The Department of Social Services has programs like SNAP (food assistance) and emergency cash assistance that might help bridge the gap. Also, if you're planning to shut down the LLC, you might want to consult with an accountant about any tax implications - sometimes there are deductions or loss carryforwards that can help reduce your tax burden. It's not unemployment benefits, but every bit helps when cash flow is tight.

Keep in mind that even if you qualify for the max $504, you still need to meet all the other requirements like doing job searches and filing your weekly claims on time. NYS Department of Labor is pretty strict about the work search requirements now - you need to do at least 3 job search activities per week and keep detailed records.

The $504 is decent but honestly doesn't go very far these days especially in NYC. At least it's something though while you're looking for work.

This entire thread should be required reading for anyone dealing with NYSDOL! I came here completely lost after spending two days trying to update my direct deposit info, and now I have a clear action plan. What strikes me most is how this community has collectively documented every possible failure point and workaround - from system timing issues to browser conflicts to account status dependencies. It's honestly better documentation than anything NYSDOL provides. I'm going to try the incognito browser approach during off-peak hours tonight, and I feel way more confident knowing what to expect thanks to everyone's shared experiences. Special shoutout to @Mateo Perez for asking the original question and following up with his success - it's so helpful when people close the loop and confirm what actually worked! This is community problem-solving at its finest.

Welcome to the community @Caleb Stark! This thread really has become the unofficial NYSDOL direct deposit troubleshooting bible. I love seeing how everyone's individual struggles turned into this comprehensive solution guide. One small tip I'd add to your 10pm attempt tonight - after you successfully update your info in incognito mode, take a screenshot of the confirmation page like @Malik Davis suggested. I learned this the hard way when I had to prove to an agent that I had actually made the change correctly. Also, don't be discouraged if the first attempt doesn't work - sometimes it takes 2-3 tries even with all the right conditions. The system truly is that finicky! Looking forward to hearing your success story tomorrow. Good luck tonight!

Just make sure you keep filing your weekly claims on time even during the move! I know someone who missed a week because they were busy packing and it caused all sorts of problems with their claim.

One thing to keep in mind is that some states have reciprocal agreements that make the transition smoother. When you get to your new state, you might want to register with their workforce development office too - not to file a new claim, but to access local job search resources and networking events. This can help you stay competitive in the job market while you're collecting from NYS. Also, make sure you understand the tax implications since you'll be living in a different state than where your benefits are coming from.