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Have you tried accessing the my.ny.gov site during off-peak hours? I found that early morning (like 6-7 AM) or late evening after 9 PM tends to work better when fewer people are using the system. The servers seem to get overloaded during regular business hours. Also, if you're still having the SSN verification issue after trying the browser suggestions, you might need to contact them about a potential identity verification problem - sometimes there's a mismatch between what's in their system and your actual records that only a human can fix.
That's really helpful advice about the off-peak hours! I never thought about the servers getting overloaded during business hours. I'll definitely try logging in early tomorrow morning. The identity verification mismatch issue you mentioned makes sense too - I moved addresses recently and wonder if that could be causing problems. Do you happen to know if there's a specific department or phone extension for identity verification issues, or would I still need to go through the main helpline?
@Ana Rusula - I had similar issues with the my.ny.gov site last year! In addition to the browser tips mentioned above, I'd also suggest trying to file your claim on a weekday between 6-8 AM when server traffic is lowest. If you're still having problems after trying different browsers and the SSN format fix, there's also a local American Job Center in Rochester at 200 Midtown Plaza that sometimes helps people troubleshoot online filing issues. They can't file claims directly for you anymore, but the staff there are pretty knowledgeable about common website problems. Also, make sure your popup blockers are disabled - that was blocking some verification screens for me. Hope this helps and you get it sorted out soon!
This entire thread has been absolutely invaluable! I'm actually dealing with this exact situation right now - need to switch my unemployment direct deposit from my old bank to a new account I just opened. Reading through everyone's experiences has given me a clear roadmap of what to expect and how to avoid common pitfalls. I'm definitely going to follow the advice about using desktop instead of mobile, taking screenshots at every step, and giving myself at least a week buffer before my next payment is due. It's amazing how many little details can make or break the process - from double-checking routing numbers to clearing browser cache to keeping the old account open for a transition period. Thanks to everyone who shared their stories, both the success stories and the cautionary tales. This community really shows how we can help each other navigate these complex government systems!
@Aisha Khan I m'so glad this thread has been helpful for you too! It s'really amazing how much practical knowledge gets shared here. I just wanted to add one more tip based on what I learned from my recent experience - if you re'doing this during a busy period like (around holidays or the beginning/end of the month when lots of people are making changes ,)the system can be even slower than usual. I tried to update mine on a Monday morning and kept getting timeout errors, but when I tried again on a Wednesday afternoon, it went through smoothly. Sometimes timing really does matter with these government websites. Good luck with your switch, and definitely come back to let us know how it goes!
This thread is absolutely gold! I just went through the exact same process two weeks ago and I wish I had found this earlier. Everything everyone is saying is spot on. One thing I'd add is that if you're switching from a big bank to an online bank like Chime or Ally, make sure you have the correct routing number - some online banks have different routing numbers for different types of transfers. I made that mistake initially and had to redo the whole process. Also, if you get any error messages, write down the exact error code if there is one - when I had to call customer service, they were able to help me much faster when I had that information ready. The online system definitely works, just be patient and methodical about it. Thanks to everyone for creating such a comprehensive guide here!
Just went through this exact same situation last month! One thing I'd add to all the great advice here - when you call KeyBank, make sure you have a pen and paper ready because they'll give you a reference number for your replacement card request. Write it down! I forgot to do this and when I called back to check on the status, they had to look me up all over again. Also, if you're really in a bind financially while waiting for the new card, some banks will let you do an emergency cash advance at a branch location using your ID and account info, though there might be fees involved. Hope you get your replacement card quickly!
Great tip about writing down the reference number! I wish I had known that when I called. Quick question - do you know which banks offer the emergency cash advance option? My regular bank is Chase and I'm wondering if they'd do something like that while I'm waiting for my KeyBank replacement card to arrive.
one thing nobody mentioned - when u DO get the new card, you have to activate it AND set a new PIN before you can use it. I didn't realize this and tried using mine at an ATM like 5 times and got locked out 🤦♂️
I'm going through this exact same nightmare right now! Lost my card 6 days ago and I'm checking the mailbox like a crazy person every single day. Reading through all these responses is both helpful and terrifying - sounds like it could be anywhere from 8 days to 3+ weeks depending on how backed up they are. I'm definitely going to try calling tomorrow to ask about expedited shipping like @Hugo Kass suggested. The fact that some people had to wait almost a month is just insane when you're relying on that money for basic necessities. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences, at least now I know I'm not the only one dealing with this mess!
Ugh, I feel your pain! I'm in the exact same boat - lost mine 4 days ago and I'm already going crazy waiting. The fact that some people waited 3+ weeks is making me really anxious since I've got rent due next week. Definitely gonna try that expedited shipping trick too. At least we're not alone in this mess! 😩
Malik Robinson
Another option if the fax apps don't work out - most public libraries have fax machines you can use for a small fee (usually like $1-2 per page). I had to do this once when all the apps were giving me trouble. The librarians are usually pretty helpful too if you're not sure how to use the machine. Just make sure to bring exact change and have your documents ready to go!
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Connor Rupert
•That's a great backup option! I didn't even think about libraries still having fax machines. Good to know there's a reliable fallback if the apps fail. Thanks for sharing that tip - definitely keeping it in mind for future reference!
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Madeline Blaze
Just went through this same situation a few weeks ago! I used the CamScanner app which has a built-in fax feature - worked perfectly and gave me instant confirmation. One thing I learned the hard way: make sure your documents are super clear and high contrast before sending. My first attempt got rejected because the scan was too blurry. Also, don't forget to include a cover page with your name, claim number, and what documents you're sending. The whole process was way less stressful than I expected once I got the hang of it!
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Ryder Everingham
•CamScanner is a solid choice! I've used it for other documents and the scan quality is really good. The tip about high contrast is so important - I made that mistake with a different app once and had to redo everything. Thanks for mentioning the cover page requirement too, that's definitely something that could get overlooked. Did you get any follow-up confirmation from NYSDOL that they actually processed your documents, or just the fax delivery confirmation?
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Natalia Stone
•Thanks for the CamScanner recommendation! I'm definitely going to try that if FaxZero doesn't work out for any future documents. The high contrast tip is really helpful - I wouldn't have thought about that but it makes total sense that blurry scans would get rejected. Did you have to pay for the fax feature in CamScanner or is it included in the free version?
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