Pro tip: When you finally get through to an agent, ask for their employee ID or name. It helps if you need to follow up later. Also, see if they can give you a direct number or extension for next time.

OP, make sure you're reporting your gig work correctly on your weekly claims. Even if it's just a few hours, you gotta disclose it. Better safe than sorry!

Quick question - do they ask about freelance work or like, small gigs? I've been doing some online stuff to make ends meet while job hunting.

Hey OP, don't stress too much. I was super nervous too but the agent I talked to was actually really nice and walked me through everything. You got this!

Pro tip: keep a detailed log of all your interactions with the unemployment office. Dates, times, who you spoke to, what they said. It'll save you a headache later if theres any discrepancies.

Anyone else notice how they're quick to take our money for overpayments but slow af to pay out benefits? 🙄 Make it make sense.

Here's what I've learned about speeding up the back pay process: 1. Document everything. Keep a record of all your communications with the unemployment office. 2. Double-check that all your information is correct in the system. Sometimes small errors can cause big delays. 3. If you can get through on the phone, ask specifically about the status of your back pay claim. 4. Consider filing an appeal if it's been an unreasonable amount of time. 5. Reach out to your state representative or senator's office. They often have liaisons who can inquire on your behalf. 6. Join Facebook groups or forums dedicated to unemployment issues in your state. Sometimes you can get insider tips or at least moral support. 7. If all else fails, consider contacting local media. Sometimes public pressure can get things moving. Hope this helps! Hang in there, OP. The system sucks, but don't give up on getting what you're owed.

lol good luck. i've been waiting on my back pay for so long I'm pretty sure it's gonna arrive in my retirement account at this point 😂😭

Anyone else notice that their website always seems to be 'under maintenance' right when you need it most? 🙄

OP, if you're really worried, you could try reaching out to your local state representative. Sometimes they can help push things along with the DOL.

I swear, dealing with unemployment is like playing a game where the rules keep changing and no one tells you. Hang in there, OP!

Hey, just a heads up - be careful about sharing any personal info when you do get through to someone. There's been a lot of scams lately targeting people with unemployment issues.

Has anyone tried filing a complaint with the ombudsman? I've heard that can sometimes speed things up.

yall ever notice how the system always seems to work fast when they think YOU owe THEM money, but when its the other way around suddenly everything moves at a snails pace? 🐌💅

lol welcome to the wonderful world of NYDOL where everything's made up and the timelines don't matter 🤡

Have you tried calling them? I know its a pain, but sometimes you gotta be persistent to get answers.

Have you checked if there were any policy changes at the start of the new year? Sometimes they implement new rules in January and it can affect ongoing claims.

Oof, been there done that. It's a nightmare. Sending good vibes your way, hope you get it sorted soon! 🤞

Pro tip: if u get thru on the phone, ask for a 'call back ticket' They'll give u a reference number and call u back within 48 hrs. Saved me from being on hold for hours!

guys im so stressed. been waiting since december, rent is due, and my landlord is breathing down my neck. any ideas for explaining this situation to creditors?? 😰