hang in there, these things usually work out eventually. the wait is awful but try not to panic

I went through something similar last year - my claim was pending for 8 weeks! It turned out they needed additional documentation from my previous employer about my separation. The key is to keep calling early in the morning (like 8 AM sharp) when they open - that's when I finally got through. Also, if you haven't already, try contacting your local assemblyperson's office. They often have contacts at the Department of Labor who can help expedite these cases. Don't give up - the backpay will come once it's resolved, and like others said, make sure you keep certifying weekly!

This whole thread is makin me anxious AF cuz I just applied last week and now im scared ill be waiting forever too. The system is such a joke 😡

I'm so sorry you're going through this - 9 months is absolutely ridiculous! Reading through all these responses, it seems like the key is getting to someone who can actually see what's blocking your claim. Based on what others have shared, I'd suggest trying multiple approaches at once: 1) Use that direct claims specialist number someone mentioned (888-209-8124), 2) Contact your state representatives' offices for constituent services, and 3) Try that Twitter DM approach to @NYSLabor. The fact that so many people have had similar experiences and then got resolved quickly once they reached the right person gives me hope for you. Don't give up - you're entitled to those benefits and the backpay! Keep us updated on what works.

Good luck with filing tonight! One tip - make sure you have all your employment info ready before you start (employer names, addresses, dates worked, reason for separation). The application will time out if you take too long gathering documents. Also, once you file that initial claim, don't wait to start your weekly certifications - you can file your first weekly claim the Sunday after you submit your initial application, even if you haven't gotten your determination letter yet. The sooner you start that weekly routine, the sooner payments can begin processing.

One thing I wish someone had told me when I first filed - don't panic if your claim status shows "pending" for a while after you submit. That's totally normal while they process your application. Also, make sure to check your messages in the online portal regularly because NYS Department of Labor will send important updates there, not just to your email. And if you do end up needing to call them, try calling right when they open at 8am - that's when you have the best chance of getting through. The phone lines get completely jammed by mid-morning.

Construction work is seasonal though, right? You might qualify for standby status if your employer expects to bring you back. That could affect how your benefits work.

Sorry to hear about the layoff after 8 years - that's really tough. Just to clarify one thing about the 26 weeks: while that's the maximum for regular state unemployment, you should also check if you qualify for any federal programs or workforce development assistance given your construction background. Sometimes there are additional resources for workers in trades who've been with the same employer long-term. Your local One-Stop Career Center might have information about retraining programs or extended benefits you could be eligible for. Worth looking into while you're collecting your regular UI benefits.

Don't give up! I was unemployed for 16 months and thought I'd never work again. What finally worked was being completely honest in interviews about what I learned during that time and how it made me more motivated. Some employers actually see long-term unemployment as making you less likely to job hop.

I went through something similar after being laid off and struggled for over a year. What really helped me was the NYS Department of Labor's "Mature Worker Program" - they have specialized counselors who understand the challenges of long-term unemployment and age discrimination. They also connected me with employers who specifically value experienced workers. Don't overlook their apprenticeship programs either - some are open to career changers and provide paid training. The key is persistence and not taking rejections personally. You have value and experience that someone needs!