Hey Dylan, I went through this same situation about 8 months ago. "Exhausted" basically means you've hit the 26-week limit for regular unemployment benefits in NY. The good news is you might be able to file a new claim if you've worked at least some hours since your original benefit year started - even part-time or temporary work can count toward the wage requirements. I'd also suggest checking if you qualify for other programs like SNAP (food stamps) or emergency rental assistance while you're job searching. The hospitality industry has been brutal, but I've seen some people having luck with temp agencies or seasonal work to bridge the gap. Don't panic - there are options, but you'll need to be proactive about exploring them.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - got the exhausted benefits notice last week and felt completely lost. What I learned from calling around is that you need to have earned at least $2,600 in covered wages since your benefit year began to potentially qualify for a new claim. The tricky part is that even if you worked some part-time or gig work, it might not have been enough to meet the requirements. I'd definitely recommend checking your wage history on the NYS DOL website first before trying to file a new claim. Also, if you haven't already, look into your local DSS office for emergency assistance programs - many counties have rental assistance that can help bridge you over while job searching. The hospitality industry is slowly recovering but I know it's been really tough. Don't give up!

Same boat here! Got an overpayment notice three weeks ago and still haven't been able to get anyone on the phone to explain what happened. This whole system is such a mess.

I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago with a $3,200 overpayment. Here's what I learned: First, you absolutely have the right to request a hearing to dispute the overpayment if you believe it's wrong - there should be appeal instructions on the back of your notice. Second, even if you can't dispute it successfully, NYS DOL is usually pretty flexible with payment plans. I was able to negotiate a $50/month plan over 5 years. The key is calling them ASAP and being honest about your financial situation. Don't wait - the sooner you contact them, the more options you'll have. Also keep all your documentation from when you were filing claims, you might need it for the appeal process.

Just wanted to add - once you get the ID.me issue fixed, make sure you have a voided check or direct deposit form from your bank ready to upload. The system will ask for this to verify your bank account, and having it ready will save you from getting stuck in yet another waiting period. Also, the first direct deposit usually takes 1-2 payment cycles to activate, so don't panic if you get one more paper check after setting everything up.

I went through this exact same nightmare about 6 months ago! The ID.me "account already exists" issue is super common with NY unemployment. What finally worked for me was using the live chat feature on ID.me's website (not just email) - you have to scroll way down to find it, but there's usually someone available during business hours. When I explained it was for NY unemployment benefits, they escalated it immediately and had my account sorted within 24 hours. Also, make sure you're using the exact same email address you originally used when you first applied for unemployment - sometimes people forget they used a different email and that's why the recovery options don't work. Hang in there, it's frustrating but totally fixable!

Other things that can disqualify you: being self-employed, not being a US citizen or authorized to work, being in school full-time without approval, being incarcerated, or receiving certain types of pension payments. Also if you're not physically able to work due to illness or disability, you'd need to apply for disability benefits instead.

If your cousin wants to appeal, she should do it even if it seems like a wage issue. Sometimes there are errors in how NYS Department of Labor calculated the wages or they might be missing some employment records. The appeal process is free and she has nothing to lose. Make sure she appeals within 30 days of the denial letter - that deadline is strict. During the appeal, she can also submit any missing wage documentation like pay stubs or W-2s that might help her case.

bruh im on week 10 still waiting. this whole system needs to be rebuilt from scratch

I'm in the same boat - week 5 here and still waiting. It's so stressful when you're counting on that money. I've been calling every day but can never get through. Might have to try that claimyr thing people are mentioning. Hang in there, sounds like most people eventually get approved with backpay!