I'm going through this exact same nightmare right now! Been stuck on this routing number error for Chase for almost two weeks. What's really frustrating is that I used this same account for my state tax refund direct deposit just last month with zero issues, so I know the routing and account numbers are correct. I tried calling Chase yesterday and the rep confirmed my routing number (121000497) is correct for both checks and electronic transfers - no separate ACH number needed. But the NY DOL system still rejects it every single time with that same "traditional checking account" error message. I'm honestly about to just give up and take the KeyBank card at this point. The whole system is clearly broken and I can't afford to keep waiting for benefits while trying to fight with their glitchy website. It's ridiculous that in 2025 we still can't get a basic direct deposit to work properly. Has anyone who ended up taking the debit card regretted it? Like are there hidden fees or other issues I should know about before I throw in the towel on direct deposit?

I'm having this EXACT same problem right now! Also with Chase, same routing number (121000497), and I've been banging my head against the wall for days. I even went to a Chase branch yesterday and had them print out my account details to triple-check everything - all correct, but the NY DOL system just keeps spitting back that same "traditional checking account" error. What's really getting to me is that this is literally the same account I use for my payroll direct deposit from my part-time job, so I know it works fine for electronic transfers. The NY unemployment system is just completely broken. I'm probably going to try calling Chase tomorrow to ask about the ACH routing number that @Zainab Ahmed mentioned, but honestly after reading all these horror stories about 3+ hour hold times, I might just bite the bullet and use that Claimyr service. At this point I'd rather pay a small fee than lose my sanity trying to get through to an actual human at the unemployment office. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - at least now I know I'm not going crazy and this really is a widespread system issue!

@Sofia Morales - since you mentioned your job ended last month and you've earned more wages since October, you should definitely be able to file a new claim right away. The monetary requirements are based on your earnings in the "base period" (usually the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters), so your additional work since the denial could make you eligible now. Just make sure to gather all your recent pay documentation before applying online. Good luck!

Just want to add that when you file your new claim, make sure to be very clear about the dates you worked and your reasons for separation from your most recent job. Since you mentioned your job ended last month, they'll want to know if you were laid off, quit, or terminated - this affects eligibility. Also, don't mention your previous denied claim unless they specifically ask about it. Treat this as a completely fresh application based on your current circumstances. The system will automatically check if you meet the monetary requirements based on your updated work history.

I went through this exact situation last year and it's really frustrating. Your unused days do disappear when you hit your BYE date - there's no way around it. The key thing is to file your new claim immediately when your BYE date hits, even if you're not sure you'll qualify. For your part-time work, you'll need to calculate if you earned at least 10x your weekly benefit amount during your entire benefit year (not just those 6 weeks). So with a $504 weekly benefit, you'd need $5,040 total. Also make sure that work was in "covered employment" - regular W-2 employment usually counts, but 1099/contractor work typically doesn't. Even if you don't think you qualify, still file the new claim and keep certifying weekly during the processing period. The worst they can say is no, but at least you'll have tried everything. And if by chance you do qualify, you'll get backpaid for those weeks you certified. The system definitely isn't perfect, but those are your best options. Good luck with your job search!

I'm dealing with this same situation right now and it's really stressful! My BYE date is coming up in about 3 weeks and I have around 45 days left. From everything I've read here and researched, it sounds like those days will just disappear no matter what. One thing I wanted to add - I called the NY DOL line using that Claimyr service someone mentioned and actually got through to speak with an agent. They confirmed that unused benefit days don't carry over past your BYE date, but they also told me about something called "transitional jobs" programs that some counties offer for people who are having trouble finding work. Might be worth looking into if you're in a participating county. Also, make sure when you do file your new claim that you report ALL wages earned during your benefit year - even small amounts from gig work or temporary jobs. Sometimes people are surprised to find they actually do qualify when they thought they wouldn't. The agent told me the system looks at your total earnings across the entire benefit year, not just recent work. Hang in there - the job market is tough right now but things will turn around!

LISTEN UP PPL - PayPal works but u gotta do it right: 1. Use a VERIFIED PayPal account 2. Double check routing/account #s 3. Wait 1-2 certification periods before the change takes effect 4. Keep old account open until new deposits start 5. Check ur email for PayPal notifications Been using it for a year, zero probs. Just follow the steps and ur good 💯

I've been using PayPal for my NY unemployment for about 4 months now and it's been solid. The key thing is making sure your PayPal account is fully verified with your SSN and everything. I had one hiccup in the beginning where a payment got delayed because I hadn't confirmed my phone number, but once that was sorted it's been smooth sailing. Takes 2-3 days just like a regular bank transfer. Way more convenient than dealing with traditional banks if you don't have one nearby.

Just to add some clarity on the backdating rules - NYS Department of Labor typically allows backdating up to 4 weeks, but they're pretty strict about what constitutes a "valid reason" for the delay. From what I've seen, they're more likely to approve backdating if you can show you were misinformed about your eligibility or had a legitimate barrier to filing (like illness or lack of internet access). Simply trying to find work first usually isn't enough, unfortunately. That said, definitely still request it when you file - include a brief explanation of your situation and any documentation you have. The worst they can do is deny it, and you'll still get benefits moving forward. The key is to file TODAY so you don't lose any more potential weeks while you're waiting.

I'm dealing with something similar right now - lost my job 3 weeks ago and just found out about these backdating rules. From what I've been reading on the NYS DOL website, they have a form you can fill out when you initially file your claim to request backdating. The form asks you to explain why you didn't file sooner. I'm planning to mention that I wasn't aware of the strict timing requirements and thought I had more time to file. Even if they don't approve the full 3 weeks, getting even 1-2 weeks backdated would help a lot. The important thing everyone's saying is right - file immediately online so you don't lose any more time. The application process took me about 45 minutes and you can save your progress if you need to take breaks to gather documents.