I went through this exact same situation a few months ago! The KeyBank mobile app route is definitely the way to go. You'll need to register for online banking first using your card number and some personal info. Once you're set up, adding your bank account for transfers is pretty straightforward - just have your routing and account numbers ready. The verification process takes about 2 days like Justin mentioned, but after that transfers are free and usually show up in 1-2 business days. Way better than paying those ATM fees! Pro tip: you can also check your benefit payment dates in the app so you know exactly when new money hits the card.

I had this same frustration when I first started getting benefits! The KeyBank mobile app is definitely your best bet. You'll need to register online first - go to key.com and click "Enroll" then use your unemployment debit card number to set up your account. Once you're in, you can add your bank account info and set up ACH transfers. It usually takes 2-3 business days for the first transfer to go through while they verify your account, but after that it's smooth sailing. I've been doing weekly transfers for about 4 months now with no issues. Just make sure you don't try to transfer more than what's available on the card or you'll get hit with an overdraft fee. The app also shows your transaction history which is helpful for tracking your benefit payments.

Henry, I went through something similar last year. Performance issues alone typically don't constitute misconduct unless there was willful negligence or insubordination. The key question is whether you were genuinely trying to do your job vs. deliberately violating policies. As for the freelance work, as long as you reported it properly and it didn't interfere with your main job duties, it shouldn't disqualify you. I'd strongly recommend applying - NYS Department of Labor will review your specific case and make the determination. You can always appeal if they initially deny you. The application is free and you have nothing to lose by trying.

Henry, I'd definitely echo what others have said about applying anyway. I was in a similar situation where I was terminated for "poor performance" after struggling to meet sales targets, and I was convinced I'd be automatically disqualified. Turns out NYS Department of Labor approved my claim because they determined it wasn't misconduct - just a poor fit between my skills and the job requirements. The key distinction they look for is whether you were willfully violating company policies or just unable to perform despite good faith efforts. From what you've described, it sounds like you were trying your best but had performance struggles, which is very different from misconduct. The freelance work shouldn't be an issue as long as you can show it didn't conflict with your primary employment. Don't let fear of rejection stop you from potentially getting benefits you're entitled to - the application process is straightforward and you'll get a clear answer either way.

same thing happened to my cousin except she waited like 3 months to reapply thinking she had to wait and missed out on benefits she could have gotten. definitely dont wait!

I work for a local nonprofit that helps people navigate unemployment benefits, and I can confirm what others have said - you can absolutely reapply right away! Since you're only getting 10 hours/week now, you'll likely qualify for partial benefits. One tip: when you file your new claim online, have your pay stubs from the past 18 months ready because they'll need to verify your work history. Also, don't forget to report your part-time wages each week when you certify - as long as you're earning less than your weekly benefit amount plus $50, you can still get some unemployment money. The system is designed to help people in exactly your situation!

just file online its pretty straightforward, took me like 15 minutes when i reapplied in november

I went through this same process a few months ago after my benefits expired. The key thing is that you need to have earned enough wages in your new base period to qualify - they'll look at your earnings from about 15 months ago up to 3 months ago. Since you've been working part-time since September, you should have enough recent work history. Just be prepared that your weekly benefit amount might be different from your previous claim depending on how much you earned during that base period. The online application really is pretty quick once you have all your info ready.

This is exactly why I keep detailed records of everything. Screenshot your payment history page and note the date it changed to 'paid' status. If you have to file a payment trace later, you'll need that documentation.

I had this exact same issue a few months ago! NYS Department of Labor showed "paid" for over a week but no deposit. After calling my bank and confirming everything was fine on their end, I had to contact NYS DOL directly. The payment had actually gotten stuck in their system somehow and they had to manually release it. It's definitely frustrating but don't panic yet - give your bank a call first like others suggested, then if that doesn't resolve it, you'll need to reach out to NYS DOL for a payment investigation.