I had the exact same problem a few months ago! What worked for me was going through the my.ny.gov portal and using the "Account Recovery" option instead of just the PIN reset. It walks you through verifying your identity with multiple pieces of information (SSN, DOB, address, etc.) and then lets you create a completely new PIN. It took about 10-15 minutes but was way better than trying to get through on the phone. Just make sure you have all your personal info handy when you start the process.

I went through this exact same situation a couple weeks ago! One thing that helped me was making sure I was using the right browser - some people have issues with the my.ny.gov site on certain browsers. I had to switch from Chrome to Firefox to get the reset process to work properly. Also, if you're still getting stuck on security questions, try thinking about what answers you might have used back in October when you first set up the account - sometimes we use slightly different versions of the same answer (like "Main St" vs "Main Street"). Clear your browser cache before trying again too, that seemed to help with some of the technical glitches I was having.

I had a similar situation a few months ago when I had to take FMLA for my husband's cancer treatment. What I found out is that while you can't get regular unemployment, you might be able to get New York State Disability Benefits if your FMLA is for your own health condition (not a family member's). If it's for family care like yours, that unfortunately doesn't qualify for disability either. One thing that helped me was reaching out to local social services to see what other assistance programs might be available - things like SNAP, emergency rent assistance, or utility help. It's not ideal but it can help bridge the gap during those 8 weeks. Also check if your employer has an employee assistance program that might offer emergency financial help.

I'm going through something similar right now - taking care of my dad after his surgery. What I've learned is that New York does have a Paid Family Leave program that's separate from FMLA, but you have to have been paying into it through payroll deductions. If you've been working in NY and seeing "PFL" deductions on your paystub, you might be eligible for partial wage replacement (about 67% of your average weekly wage). It's not unemployment, but it's specifically designed for situations like yours where you need to care for a family member. You can apply through the NY Paid Family Leave website or contact your employer's insurance carrier. Worth looking into if you haven't already!

I got audited last year and it was a nightmare! They wanted proof for 6 random weeks going back 3 months. Luckily I had everything documented but some people in my situation didn't and lost their benefits. Make sure you save confirmation emails, take screenshots, and keep a log with specific details about each application.

I've been documenting my job search for 8 months now and here's what works for me: create a folder on your phone/computer for each week, then save screenshots of every application confirmation page, job posting, and any emails you receive. For LinkedIn Easy Apply jobs, I screenshot both the job posting and the "application sent" confirmation. For company websites, I save the confirmation email and take a screenshot of the application form before submitting. I also write down the time I spent on each application since NYS Department of Labor considers time spent as part of the work search activity. Haven't been audited yet, but my case worker told me this level of documentation would definitely satisfy their requirements if I ever am.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - filed 3 weeks ago and been stuck on pending issues for the past 10 days. It's so stressful not knowing what the problem is or how long it will take. I've been keeping up with my weekly certifications like everyone suggests, but the waiting is killing me. Has anyone had luck getting information through the online messaging system on my.ny.gov? I've sent two messages but haven't heard back yet.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago and it's absolutely nerve-wracking! My claim was pending for almost 4 weeks before it got resolved. What helped me was documenting everything - I kept screenshots of my claim status, saved copies of all my weekly certifications, and wrote down every phone call attempt with timestamps. When I finally got through to someone (took about 50+ call attempts over several days), they were able to see that my former employer had disputed something about my separation reason. Once that got cleared up, all my back payments came through within a few days. The key is to stay persistent with the phone calls and keep filing your weekly claims no matter what. I know it's easier said than done when you're stressed about bills, but hang in there - it will get resolved eventually.

Great advice from everyone here! I'd also recommend creating a backup system for your documentation. I keep both digital copies (Google Drive folder) and print out important stuff monthly just in case. One thing I learned the hard way - when you apply through job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn, also grab a screenshot of the actual job posting itself, not just the confirmation page. Sometimes those postings get taken down and if DOL wants to verify the job actually existed, you'll have proof. Also, if you do phone inquiries, jot down the date, time, and who you spoke with (even if it's just a receptionist). Those count as job contacts too and it shows you're being proactive beyond just online applications.

One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet is that career counseling sessions and job search workshops also count as valid job search activities! Many local libraries and workforce development centers offer free workshops on resume writing, interview skills, or networking. I've attended several and they not only count toward your weekly requirement but actually help improve your search strategy. Make sure to get some kind of proof you attended - a certificate, sign-in sheet, or even just the event flyer with your notes on it. Also, if you're in a specific field, professional association meetings or industry events can count too. It's a good way to network while meeting your job search requirements.