I'm dealing with this same issue right now - been waiting almost 2 weeks for my card and getting really worried about bills coming due. Reading through everyone's advice here is really helpful. I'm going to try calling KeyBank tomorrow morning at 8 AM like Luca suggested, and also double-check my address in the portal just to be safe. It's so frustrating that the phone system for NYS DOL is basically useless when you actually need help. At least it sounds like KeyBank is more responsive once you can get through to them. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - makes me feel less alone in this mess!

I went through this exact nightmare last year! Three weeks is way too long - you're absolutely right to be concerned. Here's what finally worked for me: I called KeyBank at 1-866-295-2955 right when they opened at 8 AM on a weekday. The wait time was much shorter in the morning. When I got through, I explained that I never received my initial unemployment card and needed it expedited since I had bills due. They were able to overnight a replacement card at no charge since the original was clearly lost in transit. The key is being persistent with KeyBank directly - don't let them bounce you back to NYS DOL since their phone system is basically broken. I had my replacement card in hand within 48 hours. Also, once you get the card, definitely set up direct deposit through the KeyBank online portal so you don't have to deal with this card replacement hassle again if it gets lost. I know the stress is overwhelming when rent is due, but you should have your money very soon if you call first thing tomorrow morning!

I think you're overthinking this. Just focus on finding your next job and don't worry about stuff that won't matter anyway.

@Niko Ramsey I completely understand your concerns - I had the exact same worries when I first filed for unemployment after my company downsized last year. What really helped me was realizing that unemployment benefits are literally designed for situations like ours. You've been paying into this system through your paychecks, so you've already earned this benefit. As others mentioned, it won't show up on background checks or affect your credit. I actually found that being transparent about my job search during interviews (without necessarily mentioning unemployment) showed employers I was proactive. Focus your energy on your job search rather than worrying about non-existent consequences. You're doing everything right!

same here, filed 2 weeks ago and still waiting... at least the weekly claims are easy to do online

I'm also navigating this for the first time and it's definitely overwhelming! From what I've gathered from everyone's experiences here, it sounds like the 2-3 week timeline is pretty standard if everything goes smoothly. One thing that's been helpful for me is keeping detailed records of everything - screenshots of when I filed, copies of all the forms, dates of weekly certifications, etc. That way if there are any issues or delays, I have documentation. Also, I've been treating the job search requirement seriously from day one even though the payments haven't started yet. Better to stay on top of it than scramble later. Hang in there - we're all figuring this out together!

also make sure you file your claim as soon as possible after losing your job! there's no waiting period in NY but you can't get benefits for weeks before you actually file your claim. i made that mistake and lost out on like 2 weeks of benefits because i waited too long thinking about whether i qualified

Based on what you've described, you should definitely qualify! Being laid off due to the business closing absolutely meets the "no fault of your own" requirement. With 8 months at your restaurant job plus 6 months at retail before that, you likely have enough work history. The key things to check: 1) Make sure both employers reported your wages to NYS (you can verify this on my.ny.gov like someone mentioned), 2) Calculate if you earned at least $2,600 in your highest earning quarter, and 3) File ASAP since you can't get benefits for weeks before you actually apply. Don't overthink it - even if you're unsure about meeting all requirements, it's better to apply and let them determine your eligibility than to miss out on benefits you're entitled to.

Just want to add - when you get the money order, double check that they put the correct amount on it before you leave the store! I had them mess up the amount once and had to get a new one. Also, some places charge different fees for money orders so shop around a bit. Post office is usually cheapest at like $1.45 but grocery stores can be $3-5. And yeah definitely keep that receipt stub - if anything goes wrong you'll need it to trace the money order. Good luck, the whole process is stressful but you'll get through it!

I've been in your exact shoes and it's so stressful! Here's what worked for me: Get the money order from USPS (cheapest fee), make it payable to "New York State Department of Labor", write your UI claim ID in the memo line, and put your full name + last 4 of SSN on the back. Mail it certified with return receipt so you have proof of delivery. The hardest part is following up after they receive it - their phone system is brutal. I wasted days trying to get through until someone here recommended claimyr.com. They got me connected to an actual agent who confirmed my payment was processed and my benefits resumed within a week. Saved me so much stress and time compared to calling endlessly. Keep certifying weekly even while waiting for this to resolve! Your benefits will backpay once everything is cleared up. You got this! 💪