I went through this exact same situation a few months ago! The KeyBank mobile app route is definitely the way to go. You'll need to register for online banking first using your card number and some personal info. Once you're set up, adding your bank account for transfers is pretty straightforward - just have your routing and account numbers ready. The verification process takes about 2 days like Justin mentioned, but after that transfers are free and usually show up in 1-2 business days. Way better than paying those ATM fees! Pro tip: you can also check your benefit payment dates in the app so you know exactly when new money hits the card.

I had this same frustration when I first started getting benefits! The KeyBank mobile app is definitely your best bet. You'll need to register online first - go to key.com and click "Enroll" then use your unemployment debit card number to set up your account. Once you're in, you can add your bank account info and set up ACH transfers. It usually takes 2-3 business days for the first transfer to go through while they verify your account, but after that it's smooth sailing. I've been doing weekly transfers for about 4 months now with no issues. Just make sure you don't try to transfer more than what's available on the card or you'll get hit with an overdraft fee. The app also shows your transaction history which is helpful for tracking your benefit payments.

Wait I thought there was some rule about not being able to file again within a certain time period? Or am I thinking of something else??

I've been in a similar situation and can confirm there's no lifetime limit. I've filed unemployment claims about 5 times over the past decade due to company restructuring and contract work ending. Each time, as long as I had enough qualifying wages in my base period (usually the first 4 of the last 5 completed quarters before filing), my claim was approved. The NYS DOL really just cares that you meet the current eligibility requirements - sufficient work history, unemployed through no fault of your own, able and available for work. Don't stress about your previous claims affecting future eligibility!

Henry, I went through something similar last year. Performance issues alone typically don't constitute misconduct unless there was willful negligence or insubordination. The key question is whether you were genuinely trying to do your job vs. deliberately violating policies. As for the freelance work, as long as you reported it properly and it didn't interfere with your main job duties, it shouldn't disqualify you. I'd strongly recommend applying - NYS Department of Labor will review your specific case and make the determination. You can always appeal if they initially deny you. The application is free and you have nothing to lose by trying.

Henry, I'd definitely echo what others have said about applying anyway. I was in a similar situation where I was terminated for "poor performance" after struggling to meet sales targets, and I was convinced I'd be automatically disqualified. Turns out NYS Department of Labor approved my claim because they determined it wasn't misconduct - just a poor fit between my skills and the job requirements. The key distinction they look for is whether you were willfully violating company policies or just unable to perform despite good faith efforts. From what you've described, it sounds like you were trying your best but had performance struggles, which is very different from misconduct. The freelance work shouldn't be an issue as long as you can show it didn't conflict with your primary employment. Don't let fear of rejection stop you from potentially getting benefits you're entitled to - the application process is straightforward and you'll get a clear answer either way.

Glad you got it sorted out! For anyone else reading this thread - calling ahead to the local office to confirm they can print the documents on the spot is definitely recommended. Some locations might not have the same capabilities or might require appointments. Also worth noting that if you do go in person, bring a photo ID and your social security card just in case they need additional verification.

Just want to add another tip for anyone in this situation - if you're dealing with a tight deadline like OP was, you can also ask your caseworker (if you have one assigned) to email you an unofficial summary of your benefits. While this won't work for all purposes, some rental offices will accept it as interim documentation while you wait for the official paperwork. I had to do this when my landlord needed proof quickly for a lease renewal. The caseworker was able to send me a simple email stating my weekly benefit amount and dates of coverage, which bought me time until the official documents arrived. Obviously this depends on having a responsive caseworker, but worth trying if you're in a pinch!

I went through something similar last year. In my case, it was triggered because there was a discrepancy between what I reported as my last day of work and what my employer reported to the state. Even though it was just a one-day difference (I worked a partial day but reported the full day), it flagged the system for review. The investigation took about 2-3 weeks, but once I provided my final pay stub showing the exact dates and hours worked, everything was cleared up. Just make sure you respond to their requests promptly and provide exactly what they're asking for - don't send extra documentation that wasn't requested as it can sometimes slow things down.

I'm going through this exact same situation right now - got my investigation letter about 2 weeks ago. From what I've learned talking to others who've been through it, the most common triggers are employer contests (especially around the reason for separation), wage discrepancies between what you reported and what your employer reported, or sometimes just random quality control audits. The key thing is to respond quickly with exactly what they're asking for. I submitted my termination paperwork and pay stubs within 3 days of getting the letter. Still waiting to hear back but my case worker told me most investigations wrap up within 2-4 weeks if there are no major issues. Keep certifying your weekly claims even during the investigation - you might not get paid immediately but you won't lose those weeks if everything gets approved.