I went through this exact same confusion when I filed my claim earlier this year! The NY DOL really needs to update their website language because "identification number" is so vague. It's definitely your Social Security Number - just the 9 digits without any dashes or spaces. I remember stressing about this too, but once you enter your SSN correctly, the rest of the application flows much smoother. One tip: have your most recent W-2 or pay stub ready because you'll need employment information in the next steps. Don't worry, you're almost through the hardest part of getting your claim started!

I just filed my unemployment claim with NY DOL last week and ran into this exact same issue! The "identification number" field is definitely referring to your Social Security Number. I spent way too much time overthinking it and looking through old employee handbooks for some mysterious ID number that doesn't exist. Just enter your 9-digit SSN without any dashes, spaces, or formatting. The system accepted it immediately and I was able to move on to the next section. It's frustrating that the NY DOL website uses such confusing language, but don't let it stress you out - you're on the right track!

I went through this exact same process a few months ago - had my phone interview on a Thursday and got my approval notice the following Tuesday. The interviewer told me the same thing about everything looking good, and fortunately it was! One thing that helped my anxiety during the wait was checking my online account every couple days rather than obsessively refreshing it daily. The status will change from "adjudication in progress" to either "approved" or they'll request more information. Since your interviewer seemed satisfied, I'd say you're in good shape. Hang in there - 5 weeks is definitely on the longer side but not unheard of, especially if they're backed up.

I'm in a similar boat - had my phone interview two weeks ago and still waiting for a decision. The interviewer seemed positive about my case too, but the uncertainty is killing me. One thing I learned from calling the DOL directly is that they're currently processing interviews in about 2-3 weeks due to higher than normal volume. The rep told me that "adjudication in progress" means they're still reviewing the interview notes and cross-referencing with employer information. Since you're at 5 weeks total and the interview was recent, I'd expect to hear something within the next week or two. Keep filing those weekly certifications - that's crucial for getting your backpay when it's approved!

my cousin got laid off last month and honestly she seems happier job hunting than she was at her toxic workplace. maybe thats what they mean about some unemployment being ok?

This is fascinating - I never realized there was a distinction between "full employment" and 0% unemployment. @Laura Lopez thanks for explaining that full employment just means people can find work in a reasonable time frame. It makes me wonder though - how does NYS Department of Labor measure whether we're at that "healthy" unemployment level? Do they have specific metrics they track beyond just the basic unemployment rate? And for those of us dealing with claim processing delays, is there any way to know if our situation is factored into these economic calculations, or are we just statistics in a different category?

Good point about job searches. You need to be doing at least 3 job search activities per week and keeping detailed records. This includes applying for jobs, networking activities, attending job fairs, etc. The NYS Department of Labor can audit your job search log at any time so keep good documentation.

I went through something similar with attendance issues and car problems. The key thing that helped my case was that I had documentation - text messages to my supervisor about the car trouble, repair receipts showing when it was in the shop, and proof I was trying to find alternative transportation. NYS DOL looks at whether you made a good faith effort to maintain your job despite the circumstances. If you have any records of communicating with your manager about the car issues or trying to arrange rides/alternative transportation, gather all of that. It shows the absences weren't just careless but due to legitimate transportation barriers.

I tried calling NYS Department of Labor to get clarification on my benefit amount but couldn't get through after waiting on hold for over an hour. Their phone system is impossible! Has anyone found a better way to reach them?

Just want to add that you also have to factor in taxes. The unemployment benefits are taxable income so you might want to have them withhold federal taxes or set aside money for when you file. Learned that the hard way last year!