I just went through this exact same situation two weeks ago! Got the ID.me verification notice after collecting for 4 months without any issues. I was super suspicious at first but it's definitely legitimate - NY has been doing random identity checks to prevent fraud. The process itself wasn't too bad once I got started: - Took about 15 minutes using my phone - Make sure you have your driver's license ready and use good lighting - The selfie verification worked fine for me but I've heard some people get kicked to video calls - Used the exact same email I originally registered with (this is crucial!) My payments resumed exactly 8 days after I completed the verification, and I got all my back payments automatically - no extra steps needed. The missed week showed up as a separate deposit a day after my regular payment. Definitely don't wait on this - the 14-day deadline is real and they will cut off your benefits if you don't complete it. But once it's done, everything goes back to normal pretty quickly. Good luck!

I went through this same ID.me verification process about 6 weeks ago after being on unemployment for 3 months with no issues. It's definitely legitimate - NY has been doing these random identity checks more frequently since all the fraud issues during the pandemic. Here's what worked for me: - Did it on a weekday morning around 10am to avoid long wait times - Used my phone instead of computer - the camera quality was better for the facial recognition - Made sure my driver's license was clean and flat with no glare or shadows - Had good natural lighting from a window - Double-checked I was using the exact email address from my original unemployment application The whole process took about 12 minutes and was pretty straightforward. I got a confirmation email right after completing it, which I screenshotted for my records. My payments resumed after 9 days and the missed week came through as back pay automatically. The 14-day deadline is real, so definitely don't put this off. But once you complete it, everything should go back to normal pretty quickly. The notice you received looks identical to what I got, so you're dealing with the legitimate process. Just make sure when you click the link that it takes you to an actual .gov domain for extra peace of mind!

If you're still having trouble getting through to KeyBank, try calling early in the morning right when they open (around 7-8 AM) - that's when I had the best luck reaching someone. Also, if you haven't already, check if your first unemployment payment was actually issued yet by logging into your NY.gov account. Sometimes people think they're approved but the first payment hasn't been processed, which means the card wouldn't be sent out yet. The 7-10 business day countdown only starts after that first payment is issued, not after you get approved for benefits. Hope this helps!

For anyone still dealing with missing debit cards - I went through this nightmare last year and here's what finally worked: First, call KeyBank at 1-866-295-2955 early morning (7-8 AM) when wait times are shorter. Have your claim ID and Social Security number ready. If they say the card was mailed but you never got it, insist on an expedited replacement and ask for a tracking number. Second, immediately switch to direct deposit in your NY.gov account to avoid this mess in the future. Third, if you're getting nowhere with KeyBank after multiple calls, contact your state assembly member's office - they have a constituent services team that can cut through the bureaucracy when you're facing financial hardship. Don't let them pass you back and forth between agencies. Your benefits are YOUR money and you have every right to access them!

UPDATE: I managed to get through to a real person! I used the Claimyr service that @user3 recommended, and it worked perfectly. Turns out there was an "identity verification flag" on my account that I was never notified about! The agent cleared it and said I should receive all my backpay within 2-3 business days. Thank you all for your help and suggestions!

Congratulations on finally getting through! This is such a common issue and your experience will definitely help others in similar situations. The identity verification flag seems to be happening to a lot of people lately - it's frustrating that they don't send any notification about it. I'm bookmarking that Claimyr service for future reference. Fingers crossed your backpay comes through quickly!

Just want to add that even if you quit for good cause, there's usually a waiting period before benefits start. Also make sure you're actively job searching and meeting all the weekly claim requirements once you do file. The job search log is super important and they do check it sometimes during adjudication.

Before you make any decisions, I'd strongly recommend documenting everything that's happening with your manager right now. Keep detailed records of incidents, dates, times, and any witnesses. Save all emails and text messages. If possible, follow up verbal conversations with emails summarizing what was discussed - this creates a paper trail. Also consider filing a formal written complaint with HR if you haven't already, even if they've been unhelpful before. Having that official complaint on record could be crucial if you need to prove good cause later. The NYS Department of Labor takes workplace harassment seriously, but you need solid evidence to support your claim.

Hope you feel better soon! This kind of situation is exactly why the unemployment system needs better coordination with disability services. Keep all your medical documentation organized.

I'm sorry to hear about your medical situation, Miguel. From what I understand, you'll need to report this change to NYS DOL as soon as possible since you won't be able to meet the "able and available to work" requirement while recovering from surgery. You should look into applying for New York State Disability Benefits (DBL) which can provide partial wage replacement during your recovery period. The key is being proactive about the transition - don't wait until your next certification. Call them directly to explain your situation and ask about the proper process for switching from unemployment to disability benefits. Make sure to keep all your medical documentation from your doctor about the surgery and recovery timeline. Best of luck with your surgery and recovery!