ugh the whole system is still a mess from covid honestly. they act like everything is back to normal but clearly its not if people are still waiting weeks for simple claim reviews

I was actually working for the state during that period and can confirm those numbers - April 2020 was absolutely chaotic. We went from processing maybe 50,000 claims per week to over 300,000 in a single week. The system literally couldn't handle it and we had to bring in temporary staff and work around the clock just to keep things from completely falling apart. A lot of the verification steps that are causing delays now were implemented because we had massive fraud issues during the emergency period when we had to fast-track everything.

Just remember you have to meet the work requirements each time - I think it's something like 2 quarters of work with minimum earnings. Don't quote me on the exact numbers though.

You're absolutely right to question your friend's advice! There's definitely no "once per year" limit on filing unemployment claims with NYS DOL. The main requirements are having enough qualifying wages and work history in your base period for each new claim. Since you worked between your unemployment periods, you should be eligible to file again. Just make sure to gather all your employment documentation from your most recent job before you apply. The process can be tedious but you have every right to file multiple claims if you meet the eligibility requirements each time.

Are you sure you entered your direct deposit info correctly? Double check your routing and account numbers. I waited 3 weeks for payment only to realize I transposed two digits in my account number 🤦‍♂️

I'm going through the exact same nightmare right now! My waiting week processed on 9/15 and it's been radio silence ever since. I've certified every week like clockwork and my claim status shows active, but zero deposits. The most frustrating part is feeling completely in the dark about what's actually wrong. I tried calling yesterday for 4 hours straight and couldn't get past the busy signal. At this point I'm ready to try anything - even those calling services people are mentioning. It's insane that we have to jump through all these hoops just to get the benefits we're entitled to. Has anyone tried contacting their local unemployment office in person instead of calling the main number?

To answer your original question more completely - after you apply, expect to receive several pieces of mail from NYS Department of Labor. First will be your monetary determination showing your benefit amount, then instructions for filing weekly claims, and possibly requests for additional documentation depending on your situation. The key is to respond to everything promptly and keep filing those weekly claims even if your first payment is delayed. Most people get their first payment within 2-3 weeks if there are no complications with their claim.

Just went through this process myself a few months ago and wanted to add a couple things that helped me. First, create your NY.gov account BEFORE you need it - the system can be slow and you don't want to deal with account setup when you're stressed about filing. Second, keep screenshots of everything you submit because the system occasionally glitches and loses information. Also, if you're worried about the job search requirement, LinkedIn Easy Apply jobs count toward your three weekly contacts, which makes it much easier to hit that number. The whole process is definitely overwhelming at first but once you get into the routine of filing weekly claims it becomes pretty straightforward.

Three weeks isn't that bad honestly. My cousin waited 2 months for his decision last spring. The judges are overwhelmed with cases right now.

I went through a similar situation last year and the waiting is absolutely brutal. Three weeks is actually pretty normal timing - mine took about 4 weeks after the hearing. The fact that your employer barely participated and couldn't provide documentation is definitely a good sign for your case. In the meantime, have you looked into emergency rental assistance programs? Many counties in NY have programs that can help with rent while you're waiting for the appeal decision. Also make sure you're applying for food assistance if you haven't already - you can do it online through myBenefits.ny.gov. Hang in there!