Just file already! I've been on unemployment three different times and never had issues. The system is set up to help people, not trick them. Worst thing that happens is they say no and then you know for sure.

Make sure you're ready to start your job search requirements immediately after filing. NYS Department of Labor requires you to be actively looking and you'll need to log your search activities. Don't wait any longer if you're serious about getting benefits - every week you delay is a week of potential payments you're missing out on.

If you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor to update your withholding or have questions about your account, I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an actual agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Was way easier than trying to call myself and getting the busy signal for hours.

Just wanted to add that you should also consider your state tax situation. New York State doesn't automatically withhold state taxes from unemployment benefits either, but you can request state withholding too if you want to avoid owing on both federal and state returns. I think the state withholding option is around 3-4% but double check that when you're setting up your withholding preferences. Also keep in mind that if you were getting health insurance through your employer, losing that coverage might affect your tax situation since you won't have those premium deductions anymore.

The worst part about this whole thing is it's IMPOSSIBLE to get anyone on the phone at ny unemployment 😤 I spent literal days trying before I found a workaround. Use claimyr.com - they'll get you a callback from an actual agent instead of waiting on hold forever. Saved me so much stress when I was dealing with fraud on my account.

This is absolutely terrifying and I'm so sorry you're going through this! The combination of fraudulent unemployment claims AND suspicious IRS activity sounds like a major identity theft ring got hold of your information. A few things that stood out to me from your IRS transcript - those multiple refunds and credits from 2020-2021 are definitely red flags, especially the amended return you don't remember filing. The scammers might have been using your identity for tax fraud too, which could explain how they had enough info to file the unemployment claim. One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet - make sure to contact your state's Attorney General's office about this. They often have special identity theft units and can sometimes expedite cases with DOL. Also, consider signing up for the IRS Identity Protection PIN program if you haven't already - it adds an extra layer of security for future tax filings. The fact that you caught this so quickly is actually really good. Document everything with timestamps and keep pushing to get through to someone at DOL. Don't give up even if it takes multiple attempts. Your quick action could prevent this from getting much worse. Stay strong - you're doing all the right things! 💪

Just want to add that even if you don't receive the 1099-G, you're still required to report all unemployment income. Keep track of your weekly benefit amounts if you can't get the form. The IRS gets copies of these forms so they'll know if you don't report the income.

One more thing to keep in mind - if you moved or changed addresses during 2024, make sure NYS Department of Labor has your current mailing address on file. I almost missed my 1099-G last year because it went to my old apartment. You can update your address in the my.ny.gov portal under personal information. Also, if you're filing early, the 1099-G might not be available until mid-January, so don't panic if it's not there yet!

The whole benefit year system is just another way for them to make it harder for people to get help. Why can't they just let you collect as long as you need it if you're still looking for work?? The 26 week limit is ridiculous when some industries have been struggling for years.

Just wanted to add that it's really important to start planning ahead if you're getting close to exhausting your 26 weeks within your benefit year. I learned the hard way that you should start ramping up your job search efforts and maybe consider temporary or part-time work to build up some recent work history before your benefit year ends. Also, keep all your documentation from your current claim - you'll need it when you file a new one. The transition between benefit years can be stressful, but understanding the timeline helps you prepare better.