Anyone else notice that the system always seems to "crash" right when you finally get through? I swear they do it on purpose 🤬

I'm dealing with the exact same thing right now - going on 6 weeks pending with zero explanation. The most frustrating part is how the system just leaves you completely in the dark. I've been following some of the advice here and wanted to add that I found success using the "Contact Us" form on the NYDOL website multiple times. I submitted the same inquiry every few days with slightly different wording, and eventually got a response that my case was escalated for review. Still waiting, but at least I know someone is supposedly looking at it now. Also, if you have any part-time work or gig income you reported, double-check those dates and amounts - apparently even tiny discrepancies can flag your account for manual review. This whole system is a nightmare but don't give up!

Apply for food stamps too while ur waiting! NY has emergency benefits that can be approved in like 5 days. Made a huge difference for me when my unemployment was delayed.

I'm in a similar situation - lost my job in December and just filed last week. From everything I'm reading here, it sounds like you definitely have a shot at getting backdated, especially since you have a legitimate reason (thinking you'd find work quickly). That's exactly what happened to me too. I keep seeing people mention this claimyr service for actually getting through to someone on the phone, which seems to be the biggest hurdle. The NY unemployment phone system is absolutely brutal. I've been trying to call for days with no luck. Going to try that callback service everyone's talking about since it seems like talking to a real person is the only way to get anywhere with backdating requests. Hang in there - sounds like persistence is key with this whole mess of a system.

you might be able to file anyway and see what happens? sometimes they approve things that seem like they shouldn't qualify. worth a shot right?

Have you considered asking your current employer if they'd be willing to let you use any accrued vacation or personal time during your notice period to extend your employment a bit longer? Or maybe see if they have any project work you could do as a contractor during the gap? Some employers are pretty flexible when they know you're leaving on good terms and not going to a competitor. It might help bridge at least part of that 3-week period without having to deal with the unemployment system at all.

hey just checking in did u ever get ur money?? im in a similar situation now

Welcome to the group, Michael! So glad you found us and that things worked out for you in the end. Your story is really helpful for others going through the same multi-state wage verification issues. I'm dealing with something similar right now - filed my claim in December and it's been pending for almost 3 months. I also worked in NY and CT last year, so reading your experience gives me hope that this might be the root cause of my delay too. Did the agent give you any specific tips for getting through to someone in the future, or was it just persistence and lucky timing? I've been trying the 8 AM trick but haven't had success yet. Thinking about reaching out to my Assembly member's office like you did. Thanks for sharing your update - it's stories like yours that keep the rest of us motivated to keep fighting through this broken system!

ugh the whole unemployment overpayment system is such a nightmare!! they make mistakes all the time and then expect US to pay for THEIR errors. i hope you can get this sorted out one way or another. the stress is probably killing you

I went through something similar a few years ago and wanted to share what I learned. First, definitely gather ALL your documentation - pay stubs, weekly claim forms, any correspondence with NYS DOL. Second, you might want to contact a legal aid society in your area - many offer free bankruptcy consultations even if you can't afford a private attorney. The NYC Bar Association has a pro bono program, and there are similar programs throughout NY state. Also, before filing bankruptcy, consider requesting a waiver of the overpayment from NYS DOL if you can show financial hardship - they sometimes grant these, especially if the overpayment wasn't due to fraud. The worst they can say is no, and it might save you from having to file bankruptcy at all.