I've been having the exact same issue with the phone system! What worked for me was calling the weekly claim line (1-888-209-8124) at exactly 8:00 AM on Monday mornings - seems like there's less volume then. Also, if you keep getting PIN errors, try entering it slower with pauses between digits. The system is really sensitive. When the website comes back up, you might want to set up text alerts for your claim reminders so you don't have to rely on calling in the future.

I've been dealing with this same issue for weeks! One thing that finally worked for me was using the NY.gov mobile app during off-peak hours (around 2-3 PM on weekdays). Even when the main website is down, the mobile app sometimes still functions. Also, if you're still getting PIN errors, try calling the customer service line and asking them to verify your PIN over the phone - they can tell you if there's an issue with your account that's causing the automated system to reject it. I learned this the hard way after spending days thinking I was entering the wrong number. Another tip: keep a log of your call attempts with timestamps - if you do miss the filing deadline, this documentation will help when you explain the technical difficulties to an agent. The system is definitely broken right now but don't lose hope!

Make sure you understand the partial benefit calculation too. You can work and still collect as long as your total earnings for the week are less than your weekly benefit rate. NYS Department of Labor has a specific formula for partial benefits. And document everything about why your hours were reduced - that'll help your case for backdating.

I actually went through something similar last year. The key thing is to file your initial claim ASAP and be very detailed in your explanation for requesting backdating. When I explained that my hours were cut due to lack of available work and that I wasn't informed about partial benefits being available, they approved my backdate request for about 2 months. It took forever to process though - like 6-8 weeks before I saw any payments. Also make sure you have documentation of your reduced hours/earnings if possible. Good luck!

Just went through this exact situation a few months ago! You're definitely eligible - temp assignment endings are considered "lack of work" which qualifies you for benefits. Don't stress about it being temporary work, that's actually super common. Make sure you apply online at labor.ny.gov as soon as possible since there's a waiting week before payments start. You'll need your Social Security number, driver's license, and all your pay information from the staffing agency. The whole process was easier than I expected once I got started.

Just want to echo what everyone else has said - you're absolutely eligible for unemployment when a temp assignment ends! I went through this same situation about 8 months ago when my temp job at a logistics company ended after 4 months. The process was actually much smoother than I expected. Make sure you have all your pay stubs from the staffing agency and apply online at labor.ny.gov right away. The waiting week starts from when you file, not when you lost work, so don't delay. Also, keep in touch with your staffing agency while collecting benefits - they might have new assignments pop up and you'll need to document those contacts for your weekly job search requirements anyway. The NY unemployment system really does understand temp work situations, so don't stress too much about it!

I just went through this same nightmare a few weeks ago and wanted to share what worked for me. First thing - DO NOT PANIC (easier said than done, I know). Here's what you need to do immediately: 1) Log into your NY.gov account and check if you can file a new claim. Look at your base period wages - if you worked ANY hours during your original claim (even part-time or gig work), you might qualify for a fresh 26 weeks. 2) While you're checking that, apply for SNAP TODAY. Don't wait. The application process takes weeks and you need that safety net now. 3) Contact your local DSS office for emergency assistance - they can help with rent and utilities while you sort this out. 4) If you're having trouble getting through to DOL by phone, try calling right at 8 AM when they open, or use the callback feature on their website. I know this feels overwhelming but there are more options than it initially seems. You've been doing everything right with your job search - don't give up now!

I went through this exact same panic last year and wanted to share what I learned. First - breathe! There are still options. The most important thing is to immediately check if you can file a NEW claim. I had worked some temp jobs during my original benefit year and didn't realize I had earned enough to qualify for a fresh 26 weeks. Log into your NY.gov account and look at your "Monetary Determination" - if you see wages from work you did during your claim period, you might be eligible. Also, start applying for other assistance NOW - don't wait. SNAP, emergency rental assistance through your county DSS, HEAP for utilities. The applications take time to process so get them in ASAP. I also found local food pantries and community organizations were lifesavers during the gap. Check with 211 (dial 2-1-1) for resources in your area. The system isn't great but there are more safety nets than it initially appears. You've been doing everything right - keep pushing forward!

I don't have a solution, but I just wanted to say hang in there, OP. We're all in the same boat, trying to navigate these choppy waters. You'll get it sorted out eventually! 🚢

I had this exact same issue a few months ago! The problem was that when I originally set up my account years ago, I accidentally entered my mother's maiden name with a hyphen (like "Smith-Jones") but their system had it stored without the hyphen ("SmithJones"). Try entering it different ways - with/without hyphens, with/without spaces, or even try any nicknames your mom might have used. Also, double-check if you might have used your grandmother's maiden name instead by mistake when you first signed up. Sometimes we mix these up when filling out forms quickly. If none of that works, definitely call them - they can see exactly what's in their system and fix it on the spot.