I'm dealing with the exact same issue! Been trying since 6am and getting that "systems currently not available" error constantly. This is my first week trying to certify in NY after moving here from Oregon - had no idea the system was this unreliable! Just tried the cellular data + incognito mode trick that multiple people mentioned and it finally worked on my second attempt. Had to completely turn off WiFi and clear my browser cache first, but I'm so relieved I got through before the deadline. It's absolutely wild that we need these elaborate workarounds just to access something we're legally entitled to, but this community sharing solutions has been a lifesaver. Definitely saving all these tips for next Monday because it sounds like this is going to be a regular occurrence! Thanks everyone for the help 🙏

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Been trying to certify since 6:30am and keep hitting that dreaded "systems currently not available" message. This is only my second week dealing with NY unemployment after relocating from Florida, and I'm honestly shocked at how unreliable this system is. Just tried the cellular data + incognito mode workaround that everyone's been mentioning and it actually worked on my fourth attempt! Had to completely disable WiFi, clear my cache, and wait about 30 seconds between tries like others suggested. It's absolutely insane that we need these elaborate tech hacks just to access basic government services in 2025, but I'm just grateful this community exists to share real solutions. Thanks to everyone who posted their workarounds - you literally helped me avoid missing rent this month! Definitely bookmarking this whole thread because it sounds like Monday morning server crashes are going to be a regular thing here 🤦‍♂️

I've been claiming for about 6 months now and can confirm that Tuesday is the most reliable day. I certify every Sunday night around 8pm and almost always see the deposit Tuesday by noon. The few times it was delayed to Wednesday were during weeks with federal holidays. One tip - make sure your direct deposit info is correct in your NY.gov account because any banking issues can cause delays. Also keep all your job search documentation handy just in case they audit your claim, which can happen randomly and will hold up payments until resolved.

Been claiming for about 3 months now and my payments have been pretty consistent on Tuesdays when I certify on Monday mornings. One thing I learned the hard way - if you have any changes to report (like picking up a part-time job or temporary work), make sure to report it accurately during certification. I once didn't report some odd jobs I did and it flagged my account for review, which delayed payments for almost 2 weeks. The NYS Department of Labor is pretty strict about accuracy. Also, if you're getting paid by check instead of direct deposit, add an extra 3-5 business days for mail delivery.

The system is so messed up. I reported my return to work properly and they STILL sent me a questionnaire 3 weeks later asking why I stopped filing claims. Like, hello, I told you I went back to work! Had to call and explain everything again. Just keep records of what you report in case they question it later.

Just went through this exact situation last month! You definitely want to file that final weekly claim for the week you started working. When you're filling it out, there should be a question about returning to work - make sure to put your exact start date (Tuesday in your case). The system will automatically calculate any partial benefits you might be owed for the days before you started. After you submit that claim with your return-to-work date, your unemployment claim will be closed and you won't need to file anymore. Don't worry, you're doing the right thing by reporting it properly!

This is such a common issue and it's so frustrating when you're already stressed about unemployment! I went through the same thing about 6 months ago. The good news is that everyone here is giving you solid advice - the 24-hour automatic unlock is pretty reliable. But definitely try the password reset trick first like others mentioned, it worked for me when I was in a similar panic. Also, if you do end up having to wait the full 24 hours and miss your Sunday deadline, don't freak out completely. You can call the claims center and explain it was due to a system lockout. They have records of when accounts get locked so they can verify your story. I had to do a late certification once due to technical issues and they processed it without any problems. Hang in there - you'll get through this!

I had this exact same issue about 2 months ago! The panic is so real when you're locked out right before your certification deadline. Here's what worked for me: I tried the password reset option first (like others mentioned) and it actually unlocked my account immediately instead of waiting the full 24 hours. If that doesn't work for you, the tech support line really is your best bet - I know 1-888-899-8810 can be hard to get through to, but they were able to unlock my account within 10 minutes once I got connected. One thing that helped me get through faster was calling right when they opened at 8am. Also, don't stress too much about missing one certification - I've had friends who missed due to technical issues and the DOL was understanding when they explained the situation. The system keeps logs of account lockouts so they can verify what happened. You've got this!

I just went through my RESEA appointment last week and wanted to share what actually happens since I was nervous too. The counselor was really nice and it felt more like a helpful consultation than an interrogation. They asked about my job search strategy, looked at my resume, and suggested some improvements. They also told me about local job fairs and online resources I didn't know about. The whole thing took about 45 minutes. Just bring documentation of your job applications (I printed out confirmations/screenshots), your resume, and be honest about what you're looking for. They're there to help you find work, not trip you up.

I had my RESEA appointment a few months ago and it was actually a positive experience. The counselor helped me realize I was applying for jobs that were either too broad or too narrow for my skills. They showed me how to use the NYS job search website more effectively and connected me with a free resume workshop. One tip - if you've been doing any networking, informational interviews, or attending job-related events, bring documentation of those too. They count toward your work search activities and show you're being proactive. The counselor seemed impressed that I was doing more than just submitting online applications.