Have you tried calling them? I know its a pain, but sometimes you gotta be persistent to get answers.

I'm dealing with a similar overpayment situation right now too! From what I've read in the DOL handbook, they're supposed to send you a notice explaining the recoupment schedule and when benefits should resume. Have you gotten anything like that in writing? Also, I noticed on my online account there's a section that shows the overpayment balance - might be worth checking if yours updates as they deduct. This whole process is so stressful when you're already struggling financially 😔

Just avoid prepaid debit cards if possible. Some of those have fees that eat into your benefits. Stick with a regular checking or savings account at an established bank or credit union.

I can confirm that both Bank of America and credit unions work fine with NYS unemployment direct deposit. I've been using my local credit union for over a year without any issues. The main thing is just making sure it's a legitimate financial institution that can receive ACH transfers. When you set it up on the NY.gov website, they'll verify the routing number automatically, so you'll know right away if there are any compatibility issues.

i had 2 go through this last month. nightmare situation. the number u need is 518-402-0205. BUT good luck getting thru lol. i ended up using this service called claimyr after trying for 3 days straight with no luck. they got me connected to someone in about 30 min and i was able to reschedule. website is claimyr.com if ur desperate like i was

I've been dealing with NY unemployment for months and here's what finally worked for me when I needed to reschedule my hearing: 1. Try calling 518-402-0205 (the direct hearings line) at exactly 7:59am and keep hitting redial until 8:15am. This narrow window is your best shot. 2. If that fails, go to your local Career Center in person with your hearing notice. The staff there can access the hearings system directly and reschedule you on the spot. I drove 45 minutes to mine but it was worth avoiding the phone nightmare. 3. As a backup, send a certified letter to the address on your hearing notice explaining your medical procedure and requesting a reschedule. Include your claim number, contact info, and preferred dates. At least you'll have proof you tried to contact them. The system is intentionally frustrating but don't give up! Missing the hearing without notice will automatically rule against you. Also document every attempt you make to contact them - screenshots of call logs, emails, etc. This will help if you need to appeal later. Hope this helps and good luck with your medical procedure!

honestly i think theyre too busy to check most ppl unless u give them a reason to look closer. just keep decent records and dont claim benefits while working under the table or anything obvious like that

THE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO CATCH YOU! They have algorithms that flag suspicious patterns and they WILL audit you if something looks off. I know someone who got disqualified because they couldn't prove half their job searches. Keep everything documented or you're screwed!

I gave up on calling after 2 weeks of trying and used claimyr.com instead. Talking to an agent got my $ unlocked so fast. They basically keep calling the unemployment line for you and then connect you when they get through to a human. Total lifesaver when you're dealing with confusing letters like this!

I went through this exact same confusion with NY unemployment about 6 months ago! The mixed messages are unfortunately super common - I got a denial letter one day and then approval paperwork the next. What I learned is that the denial was usually for a specific week or issue (like the waiting week that everyone gets denied for), while the approval covers the rest of your claim. The appointment is actually a really good sign - they don't schedule those unless your claim has at least some validity. It's basically just them making sure you understand the work search requirements and how to use their system properly. Don't stress too much about it, just bring documentation of any job searches you've done and your ID. The whole system is incredibly confusing but you're probably in better shape than you think!