Check if you can access any correspondence or messages in your online account. Sometimes there are documents or notices posted there that explain what the issue is, even if you didn't receive them by mail or email. Also make sure your contact information is current in case they're trying to reach you.

I'm dealing with the exact same thing right now! Been stuck on "issue on file" for almost 3 weeks and it's driving me crazy. I did manage to get through to someone last week (took calling literally hundreds of times) and they told me it was just a routine review of my separation reason, but they couldn't give me a timeline for when it would be resolved. They said to just keep certifying weekly and wait. It's so frustrating when you're counting on that money and have no idea what's happening or how long it will take.

The whole system is ridiculous. 26 weeks sounds like a lot but when you're actually looking for decent work it goes by fast. And don't even get me started on the job search requirements - half the jobs posted are fake or pay nothing. They should extend it automatically instead of making people jump through hoops.

Just went through this process myself after being laid off from my retail job. The 26 weeks is correct, but here's what I wish someone told me upfront - start your job search documentation from day one and be really organized about it. I used a simple spreadsheet to track my 3 weekly activities (applications, networking contacts, job fairs, etc.) with dates and details. Also, don't wait to file - you can't get benefits for weeks before you actually submit your initial claim. The base period calculation can be confusing but the important thing is having steady work history in those 4 quarters. Good luck!

Contact ur state representatives office! Seriously! After 3 weeks of getting nowhere with unemployment, I emailed my state assembly person and their office contacted DOL directly. Had my issue resolved in 4 days after that.

This is absolutely infuriating but unfortunately becoming way too common. I work in cybersecurity and we're seeing identity theft for unemployment benefits skyrocket. A few additional steps that might help: 1. Set up monitoring on your Social Security account at ssa.gov - scammers often use stolen SSNs for multiple types of fraud 2. Consider placing a security freeze (not just alerts) on all your credit reports - it's free and more protective 3. Check if your bank offers identity monitoring services - many do for free now 4. Save screenshots/photos of ALL documents you receive, including that approval letter - you'll need evidence later The good news is that once it's properly flagged as fraud, the state usually stops any payments pretty quickly. The bad news is the paperwork nightmare can drag on for months. Stay on top of it and don't let them brush you off. You're the victim here and they need to fix their broken system. Also - definitely tell your employer before they find out another way. It looks much better coming from you first and shows you're being proactive about the fraud.

The 26 weeks goes by faster than you think. I burned through mine last year and had to take a job paying way less than what I was making before. Start applying for good jobs right away instead of waiting - unemployment gives you a cushion but don't rely on it lasting forever.

I agree with Emma - don't wait to start your job search! I made that mistake thinking I had plenty of time and ended up scrambling in weeks 20-26. Also, if you do find part-time or temporary work while collecting, you can still get partial unemployment benefits as long as you report the earnings. NYS Department of Labor will reduce your weekly benefit based on how much you earn, but you don't lose benefits completely. This can actually help stretch your coverage longer while you look for that perfect full-time position in your field.

If you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor to ask about specific situations, I found this service called Claimyr that helped me get through to an actual agent when I had questions about my eligibility. Check out claimyr.com - they have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Made it way easier than trying to call myself and getting hung up on.

I really understand the frustration with toxic workplaces, but deliberately getting fired is risky. NYS Department of Labor will look at the circumstances of your termination. Instead, consider filing a complaint with HR first (if you have one) or documenting incidents for potential legal action. You might also qualify for unemployment if you quit for "good cause" - things like unsafe working conditions, harassment, or significant changes to your job terms. Talk to an employment lawyer for a free consultation before you make any moves that could hurt your eligibility.