If you're having trouble getting through to NYS Department of Labor for rate questions, I used claimyr.com recently when I couldn't reach anyone about our quarterly filings. They got me connected to an actual agent in like 10 minutes instead of waiting on hold forever. There's a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Worth it when you need real answers fast.

Just went through this process last year when I started my consulting firm. The initial rate for new employers is actually set by your industry classification (NAICS code) - some industries start higher than others due to historical claim patterns. Construction and restaurants typically start around 5-6% while professional services might start at 3-4%. You'll get your official rate assignment after your first few quarters of reporting. Also heads up - you have to register within 10 days of hiring your first employee or you face penalties. The online registration through the NYS Department of Labor website is pretty straightforward once you have your EIN.

I'm dealing with this exact same nightmare right now! Been trying to get through for 3 weeks about a payment issue and it's beyond frustrating. Reading through all these suggestions is really helpful though. I think I'm going to try the multi-pronged approach - contact my state rep tomorrow morning, then try calling during those mid-morning hours that Aidan suggested, and if that doesn't work I'll look into the Claimyr service as a last resort. It's ridiculous that we have to jump through so many hoops just to talk to someone about our own benefits, but at least there are some actual solutions here instead of just "keep calling." Thanks everyone for sharing what actually worked!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Just wanted to add one more option that helped me get some movement on my case - I filed a complaint with the NY Department of Labor's Office of Special Investigations through their website. It's under the "Report Fraud or Get Help" section. They're supposed to respond within 10 business days for payment issues. I submitted mine 3 days ago so still waiting to see if it works, but figured it's worth mentioning as another free option to try alongside the state rep contact and early morning calling strategies. The form asks for your claim details and specific issue, so have all your info ready. Really hoping one of these methods works for all of us dealing with this mess!

File immediately, don't wait! I learned this the hard way when I was terminated a few months ago. The NYS DOL system actually encourages you to file as soon as possible after job separation - there's even a notice on their website saying delays in filing can result in loss of benefits. Your employer contesting is actually pretty common and doesn't mean you won't get approved. During my adjudication process, they asked for my side of the story and I was able to provide documentation that supported my case. The key is getting your claim established with the earliest possible effective date. You can always supplement with additional documentation later through your online account if the adjudicator requests it.

Just want to echo what everyone else is saying - file TODAY! I made the mistake of waiting 10 days after my termination because I thought I needed to "process" what happened first. Those 10 days were basically wasted benefit time that I can never get back. The NYS system is actually pretty straightforward once you start - you'll need your SSN, employment history for the past 18 months, and basic info about why you were terminated. Don't overthink the documentation part - the initial application is just to get you in the system. If they need more details during adjudication, they'll ask for it. Your employer threatening to contest is totally normal and honestly just shows they're trying to discourage you from filing. File now, worry about their contest later!

yeah they definitely take it out automatically. happened to my brother when he was on unemployment last year. just be glad you're still getting something after support is taken out!

Just wanted to add that you can also check with your local Child Support Enforcement office to confirm the exact timing and amount of deductions. Sometimes there can be delays or discrepancies, and they can give you a clearer timeline than DOL. Also, if your financial situation has changed significantly due to unemployment, you might be able to request a modification of your support order - though that's a separate legal process from the unemployment benefits. Keep all your payment records organized in case you need them later.

I work in HR and deal with this stuff all the time. Your claim number is definitely in the initial filing confirmation - it's required by law that they provide it. If you truly can't find any documentation, NYS Department of Labor can verify your identity over the phone using your SSN, full name, and address to look up your claim. The key is actually getting through to speak with someone, which I know is the main challenge right now.

Have you tried checking your text messages? When I filed my claim, NYS Department of Labor sent me a confirmation text with my claim number right after I submitted the application. It might be buried in your message history if you haven't deleted it. Also, if you have a case worker assigned to your claim, sometimes their contact info includes your claim number in their email signature or voicemail messages.