My husband went thru something similar. He tried calling for days with no luck. Finally used Claimyr.com after seeing it recommended here, and they got him connected to a rep who fixed everything in 10 minutes. The rep told him the system sometimes automatically closes certifications when you're close to your maximum benefit amount even if you have a few dollars left. Worth checking out if you're struggling to get through on the phones.

This exact thing happened to me back in September! The effective days counter is basically meaningless - what really matters is your maximum benefit amount (usually 26 x your weekly benefit rate). Once you hit that dollar limit, you're done certifying even if the system shows days remaining. It's super confusing because they display both numbers but don't explain which one actually controls your eligibility. I'd definitely call to confirm, but 99% chance you've just exhausted your monetary benefits. The good news is you can file a new claim once your benefit year ends in February if you've worked enough since your original claim. Hang in there!

I missed one week of certifying because I was in the hospital. Anyone know if I can still claim that week somehow? The website won't let me backdate.

I'm in a similar boat - been on unemployment since March and really worried about what happens when the $300 ends. Reading through all these comments is both helpful and terrifying! Sounds like the regular benefits should continue but I'm definitely going to check my benefit year and remaining weeks ASAP. Also bookmarking that claimyr service since it seems like half the people here have had success with it when the regular phone lines fail. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - this community has been way more helpful than the actual DOL website! 🙏

I had something similar but with different dates. Took it to hearing and won BUT it took 3 months to get the hearing scheduled. Start documenting everything now. Also if u have any coworkers who can verify you worked those WFH days get their statements NOW before people forget or move on to other jobs.

This is infuriating but you definitely have a strong case! The June 31st error alone shows their record-keeping is completely unreliable - that's going to work heavily in your favor at the hearing. I'd also suggest checking if your state has any specific COVID leave protections that were in place during your quarantine period. And definitely agree with everyone saying to document everything NOW - emails, calendar entries, any system logins from WFH days, even delivery receipts if you had work stuff shipped to your home. The fact that they're counting closed business days shows they're either being intentionally deceptive or their HR is completely incompetent. Either way, you've got this! 💪

ugh the whole unemployment system is such a mess. between the website crashing all the time and cards not working, its like they dont want us to actually get our money. sorry youre dealing with this OP

I work at a Walmart and can confirm we do cash unemployment checks, but definitely call ahead because some locations have different policies or might be out of cash on busy days. Also wanted to mention that if you have direct deposit set up with NYS DOL, you might be able to get emergency access to your funds through their website even if the card isn't working - sometimes you can do a one-time transfer to your bank account. Worth checking your online account to see if that's an option while you're figuring out the card issue.

Just make sure you're being honest about your availability when you certify each week. The question asks if you were able and available for work - if classes would prevent you from taking a job, you need to answer accordingly. Better to be upfront than risk an overpayment later.

I'm in a similar situation - lost my retail job a few weeks ago and considering going back to school. From what I've researched, the key thing is that you have to maintain your availability for work during standard business hours (usually 8am-5pm Monday-Friday). Evening classes like yours should be fine since they don't interfere with typical work schedules. Just make sure you can still attend job interviews, accept work offers, and fulfill the work search requirements. I'd document everything - keep records of your class schedule, job applications, and any communications with potential employers to show you're genuinely available for work despite being in school.