Glad you got it sorted out! The VPN issue is actually pretty common with ID.me - their system flags VPN traffic as potentially suspicious which can cause verification to stall. For anyone else reading this thread who might be stuck at the same spot, here's a quick checklist that usually helps: ✓ Use Chrome or Firefox (avoid Safari/Edge) ✓ Set browser zoom to 100% ✓ Disable VPN and any privacy extensions temporarily ✓ Use natural lighting or a bright lamp ✓ Make sure all four corners of your ID are visible in the photo ✓ Clear browser cache before starting If you're still having issues after trying these steps, the video verification call option through ID.me support is usually the fastest backup solution. The whole process has definitely gotten more reliable over the past year, but these technical hiccups still happen occasionally.

Just wanted to chime in as someone who works in tech support - the ID.me verification issues you experienced are super common and it's great that you got it resolved! For future reference, another thing that can cause problems is having multiple tabs open with the same site. ID.me sessions can conflict with each other if you have the NY unemployment portal open in multiple browser tabs. Also, if anyone is still having trouble after trying all the browser fixes mentioned here, you can actually call ID.me support directly at 1-855-438-3291. Their phone support is usually faster than the chat option, especially during business hours. They can walk you through the verification process step by step or set up the video call verification immediately. The whole system definitely needs to be more user-friendly, but at least there are workarounds when it gets stuck!

Adding to all the great advice here - one thing that really helped me when I went through this process was downloading the NY DOL mobile app. It makes weekly certifications SO much easier, especially if you're traveling or away from your computer. You can certify from anywhere as long as you have cell service. Also, don't panic if your first payment takes longer than expected. Mine took about 3 weeks from when I first applied, which felt like forever when I was stressed about bills. The waiting week plus processing time can make it feel really slow, but it does come through eventually. One last thing - if you have any issues with your claim (like if it gets flagged for review), don't just wait around hoping it resolves itself. Call or use one of those callback services people mentioned. I waited 6 weeks thinking my claim would automatically process, when really there was just a simple question they needed answered that took 5 minutes to resolve once I finally got through to someone. You've got this! The hardest part is just getting started, and it sounds like you're already on the right track.

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago and want to echo what everyone's saying - file ASAP! Don't overthink it. The NY system is actually pretty straightforward once you get started. One thing I wish someone had told me: after you file your initial claim, you'll get a determination letter in the mail (usually within 1-2 weeks) that shows your weekly benefit amount. READ IT CAREFULLY! Mine had an error where they missed one of my previous employers, which would have reduced my benefits significantly. I caught it and was able to get it corrected before it became a bigger issue. Also, for the work search requirement - networking counts too! If you have coffee with someone in your field to discuss job opportunities, that can count as one of your three weekly activities. Just document who you met with, when, and what you discussed about potential opportunities. The whole process really isn't as scary as it seems when you're staring at that application for the first time. Take it one step at a time and you'll be fine!

I just want to echo what others have said about how confusing this system is! I've been on NY unemployment for about 3 months now and honestly had no clue what the effective days meant until reading this thread. Mine is showing 48 which makes sense now (12 weeks x 4 = 48 days). But like everyone else, I was completely in the dark about whether a higher number was good or bad. It's really frustrating that NYSDOL doesn't provide any clear explanations on their website - you literally have to stumble upon community discussions like this to understand your own benefits! Thank you to everyone who shared their knowledge here, especially the unemployment counselor. This should be required reading for anyone starting a claim in NY!

I'm brand new to this community and to NY unemployment - just filed my first claim yesterday! Reading through this entire discussion has been both incredibly helpful and pretty concerning. I had no idea what any of these numbers meant and was already getting anxious seeing "effective days: 0" on my account, wondering if that meant something was wrong. Now I understand it's just because I haven't claimed any weeks yet. It's honestly ridiculous that NYSDOL doesn't explain any of this basic stuff anywhere on their website. How are people supposed to navigate this system without stumbling onto helpful forums like this? Thank you all for sharing your experiences and especially to the unemployment counselor for the clear explanations - this thread should be pinned for all newcomers!

yeah this is pretty normal, just wait it out and keep filing your weekly claims

I'm dealing with the exact same thing right now! My claim just switched to hold status yesterday with no explanation. I've been calling the NYS Department of Labor phone line but can't get through - just busy signals all morning. It's so stressful not knowing what's causing the hold or how long it might take to resolve. I'm keeping track of all my job search activities just in case they need documentation, but like you said, there's no message telling me what they actually need. Hopefully it's just a routine review like some others mentioned and gets cleared up quickly.

I'm dealing with the same login issues right now! I've tried everything - different browsers, clearing cache, typing password manually instead of autofill. The password reset emails aren't coming through either, even checked spam. This is so frustrating when you're trying to file your weekly claim on time. Has anyone tried calling during off-peak hours? Maybe early morning or late evening when fewer people are calling the NYS Department of Labor tech support line?

I had a similar issue a couple months back and what finally worked for me was going to the NYS Department of Labor office in person. I know it's a hassle, but they were able to reset my account on the spot and I was back up and running the same day. If you have a local office nearby, it might be worth the trip instead of dealing with the phone lines. They can also help you file your weekly claim right there if you're running close to the deadline. Just bring your ID and any unemployment paperwork you have.