dont bother calling the main number nobody ever answers. try this secret number instead: *** *** **** [Comment removed by moderator - no posting of unauthorized phone numbers]

I went through this exact same nightmare last fall! The self-employment question glitch is so frustrating. What finally worked for me was a combination of things: 1. I tried the mobile site trick mentioned above - it did help bypass the question once but then it came back 2. I kept detailed screenshots of every error message (super important for when you finally talk to someone) 3. I eventually used Claimyr after seeing so many people mention it here - got connected to an agent in about 90 minutes who fixed it immediately The agent told me my account had some kind of "employment classification conflict" from old data in their system. Once they cleared that flag, I was able to certify normally and got all my back payments within a week. Don't give up! I know it feels hopeless but this IS fixable. The system is just terrible at handling these edge cases. Document everything and keep trying - you'll get through eventually. Hang in there! 💪

same boat here, been waiting 3 weeks

I'm in a similar situation - filed 3 weeks ago and still waiting for my first payment. The anxiety is real when you're counting on these benefits to survive. One thing that helped me was calling the automated system (1-888-209-8124) to check my claim status without having to wait on hold for an agent. It at least confirmed my weekly certifications were being processed correctly. Hang in there, from what I'm reading here it sounds like the wait is unfortunately normal but the payments do eventually come through retroactively.

Just wanted to add that if you do quit for good cause and file for unemployment, you'll still need to do your weekly job searches and meet all the other requirements. The good cause exception just gets you past the voluntary quit disqualification, but then you have to follow all the normal UI rules.

One thing to keep in mind is that even if you establish "good cause" for quitting, you might still face a waiting period before benefits kick in. Also, make sure you understand the difference between being fired "for cause" (which can disqualify you) versus quitting "for good cause" (which can qualify you). The language matters a lot in these cases. If your employer tries to contest your claim by saying you were fired for performance issues instead of quitting due to their poor management, it could complicate things. Consider speaking with a lawyer who specializes in employment law if the situation gets really complex - many offer free consultations for unemployment cases.

The whole system is BROKEN for gig workers and freelancers! We're supposed to be independent but then get zero support when the economy tanks. Every other developed country has figured this out but not us. Makes me want to just get a regular job for the security.

Have you considered looking into New York State's Freelance Isn't Free Act? While it doesn't help with unemployment benefits, it might give you some legal recourse if any clients haven't paid you properly. Also, you might want to check if you qualify for SNAP benefits or other assistance programs while you're looking for new work. The Empire State Development agency sometimes has resources for freelancers and small business owners too. It's not unemployment, but every bit helps when income is tight.

Check your email too sometimes they send updates there instead of the website messages. Also call your local career center they might have more info about appeal timelines in your area.

I feel for you - the waiting is brutal when you're running low on funds. One thing that helped me was calling the Appeals Bureau directly at (518) 402-0205 rather than the main unemployment line. They're usually less busy and can at least confirm they received your appeal and give you a rough timeline. Also, if you haven't already, make sure you're continuing to certify for benefits each week even while your appeal is pending - if you win, you'll get backpay for those weeks. Hang in there, 6 weeks is still within the normal timeframe even though it feels like forever.