ugh why is everything so broken?? 🤬 we're just trying to survive here and they make it impossible. the whole system needs an overhaul

I had this exact same problem! Here's what finally worked for me: 1. Try logging in during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) 2. Use the "forgot password" option to reset your login credentials - sometimes the system gets confused about authentication 3. If you're getting error messages, screenshot them and save the error codes - it'll help when you do get through to someone 4. Check if there are any outstanding documents or forms they need from you that might be blocking your weekly certification The pending status is super frustrating, but don't give up on the weekly certifications even if the system is glitchy. You'll need those to get backpay once everything gets sorted out. Hang in there! 💪

Make sure you're really clear about the timeline of events. I appealed mine and won because I could prove the employer changed their story between what they told NYS Department of Labor initially vs what they said later. Document everything and be very detailed about what actually happened on the day you were terminated.

just went thru this myself and won my appeal!! the key thing is dont let them intimidate you with legal language and stuff. stick to the facts of what really happened and explain why their decision was wrong. also get ready for a hearing because most appeals end up there anyway

The whole system is so confusing no matter what age you are!! I'm 45 and still get overwhelmed by all the requirements and forms. At least being older means you probably have more work history to qualify with higher benefit amounts.

I'm glad you asked this question - it's a common misconception that there's an age limit! I work with a lot of folks in career transitions and can confirm that New York State doesn't have any maximum age restrictions for unemployment benefits. What matters is that you're able and available to work, actively seeking employment, and meet the standard eligibility requirements. At 67 with 8 years at your last job, you likely have strong work history that should qualify you for benefits. Don't let anyone discourage you from filing - you've earned these benefits through your contributions to the system. File as soon as possible since there can be a waiting period, and make sure to document your job search activities from day one.

I went through something similar with my anxiety and panic disorder. One thing that really helped my case was getting a detailed letter from my psychiatrist that specifically mentioned how my work environment was exacerbating my condition and that continuing to work there would be harmful to my recovery. NYS Department of Labor seems to take it more seriously when the medical professional explicitly connects your mental health condition to your inability to continue in that specific job. Also, if you do decide to quit, make sure you phrase it as "constructive dismissal" if your employer was unwilling to accommodate your disability - this can sometimes be treated more like a termination than a voluntary quit. The process is stressful but don't let that discourage you from applying if you truly need the support.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now and wanted to share what I've learned from talking to a disability advocate. The key thing is that NYS Department of Labor looks at whether your resignation was "involuntary" due to circumstances beyond your control. For mental health conditions like anxiety, you need to show three main things: 1) Medical documentation that your condition prevents you from performing your job duties, 2) Evidence that you attempted to work with your employer on accommodations (even if they refused), and 3) Proof that continuing to work would cause significant harm to your health. I'm still in the process myself, but having everything documented from the start has made me feel more confident about my case. Also, don't be afraid to mention if your workplace contributed to or worsened your anxiety - that can actually strengthen your claim for good cause.

This thread is incredibly helpful and gives me so much hope! I'm currently in week 3 of review with a severance situation and was starting to really stress about bills. The detailed breakdown of your timeline and the specific office information is exactly what I needed to hear. I had no idea that different offices handle claims or that there were specific area codes to watch for. Almost missed a call from a 607 number last week thinking it was spam - glad I saw this before that happens again! Planning to call this Friday (hitting the 3-week mark) to check if I've been assigned to a caseworker yet. The fact that your employer didn't contest the severance and submitted everything promptly gives me confidence since my former employer has been pretty cooperative too. Thanks for sharing all the specific details and keeping everyone updated. Posts like this make such a difference when you're stuck in the "under review" limbo! Will definitely keep certifying weekly and hopefully can share some good news soon.

This is such a comprehensive breakdown - thank you for sharing all the specific details! I'm in week 1 of review right now (just filed this past Monday) and was already starting to get anxious seeing that "under review" status. Your post gives me a realistic timeline to work with instead of just wondering if something went wrong. The information about the different office area codes is incredibly valuable - I definitely would have ignored calls from 607 or 518 thinking they were spam. And the tip about calling at the 3-4 week mark rather than waiting indefinitely for system updates is gold. I also received a severance package when I was laid off last month, so it sounds like I should expect a similar extended review process. It's actually reassuring to know that this is normal for severance cases rather than thinking there's some problem with my claim. Going to bookmark this thread and follow everyone's advice about continuing weekly certifications and being patient but proactive. Really appreciate you taking the time to document your experience so thoroughly - it's helping a lot of us newcomers understand what we're actually dealing with! Fingers crossed you get your payment soon and can finally put this stress behind you. Keep us posted on how it goes!