I'm experiencing the same SSN rejection issue as of this morning! After reading through all these suggestions, I wanted to share what's been working for me so far. The mobile browser trick that @Omar Fawaz mentioned was a game changer - I was able to get past the SSN error using my phone's Safari browser when Chrome on my laptop kept failing. Also, I noticed that if you get the error message, don't immediately try again - wait about 10-15 minutes between attempts because I think the system temporarily locks you out after failed submissions. For anyone still struggling, try these steps in order: 1) Clear all browser data and cookies 2) Switch to mobile device with cellular data 3) Try during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) 4) Use incognito/private mode. If none of that works, definitely use that Claimyr service @Asher Levin mentioned - seems like it's the only reliable way to actually talk to someone at NYS Department of Labor these days. This whole situation is unacceptable though - people shouldn't have to jump through hoops just to access their unemployment benefits.

I just went through this nightmare last week! The SSN validation error seems to be hitting a lot of people lately. What worked for me was a combination of things: First, I completely logged out of my account and cleared ALL my browser data (not just cache - cookies, stored data, everything). Then I waited about 30 minutes before trying again. When I came back, I used Firefox instead of Chrome and made sure to type my SSN very slowly with small pauses between each digit - sounds crazy but I think the form validation is super sensitive to rapid input. Also double-check that you're not accidentally hitting any extra keys or spaces. The system is definitely glitchy right now but don't panic about your benefits getting cut off - they know there are technical issues and won't penalize you for their system problems. Keep documenting each time you try so you have a record if needed. If all else fails, that Claimyr service people mentioned seems legit for actually reaching a human at NYS Department of Labor.

You can also check your claim status online through the NY DOL website to see if there are any holds or issues that might be delaying card shipment. Sometimes there are identity verification steps that need to be completed before the card gets sent out. Also, if you need money urgently for rent, you might want to ask family/friends for a short-term loan since even if you get the card tomorrow it can take a day or two to activate it and access funds. Definitely try the KeyBank tracking and calling their unemployment card line - they're usually more helpful than the general DOL phone system.

If you're still having trouble after checking all the suggestions above, you might want to consider requesting a replacement card. KeyBank usually allows you to request a replacement if your original card hasn't arrived after 15 business days. There's typically a small fee (around $5-10) but it might be worth it for peace of mind. You can usually do this through their website or by calling their unemployment card line. Also, make sure to update your address with both NYS DOL and KeyBank if you've moved recently - mismatched addresses are a common cause of delivery delays. Hope you get this resolved soon!

Just wanted to add that even if your employer does contest your claim, don't panic! I went through this last year when my former employer tried to claim I was fired for poor performance (which wasn't true - I was actually laid off). The adjudication process took about 3 weeks, but NYS Department of Labor was thorough and fair. They asked for my side of the story, looked at my employment records, and ultimately approved my benefits. The key is to respond promptly to any requests for information and be honest about what happened. Document everything you can about your layoff - emails, notices, anything that shows it was due to budget cuts rather than your performance.

Based on what everyone's shared here, it sounds like you should be fine since you were laid off due to budget cuts. That's exactly the type of separation unemployment benefits are designed for. The "under review" status is totally normal - they're probably just waiting for the standard response period from your employer to pass. Most employers don't waste time contesting legitimate layoffs since they'd need actual documentation to support their case. Keep checking your account regularly and make sure your contact info is up to date in case they need any additional information from you. The whole process can feel stressful when you're waiting, but layoffs for budget reasons are pretty straightforward cases.

anyone else notice the phone system hangs up faster now? used to at least get to hold music lmao

Same boat here - filed in November and it's been radio silence since my initial call. The severance thing is probably what's holding yours up too. I've been documenting every failed call attempt (literally keeping a spreadsheet at this point) and might try that claimyr service everyone's mentioning. This whole system is designed to wear us down but we can't let them win 💪

wait so you can backdate unemployment?? i thought if you didn't file right away you were just screwed

I was in almost the exact same situation - lost my job in October and didn't file until February because I kept thinking "next week I'll find something." NYS DOL did approve my backdate request, but I only got about 60% of the weeks I requested. The adjudicator said my reason (expecting to find work quickly) was understandable but not considered "good cause" for the entire period. Still, getting partial backpay was better than nothing! My advice: file immediately and gather any evidence you have of job searching activities from September onward - even informal networking or browsing job boards counts as active search if you can document it somehow.