The website is back up now. Just successfully logged in and was able to access all features. They've added some new security measures - you'll need to reverify your identity with the new two-factor authentication system they've implemented. Have your phone ready to receive a text code when logging in.

Thanks everyone for all the helpful info in this thread! I was also locked out since Tuesday and was getting really stressed about missing my certification deadline. I tried the phone system at 1-888-581-5812 like some of you suggested and it worked perfectly - much faster than I expected. For anyone still having trouble, I found that calling around 7 AM seemed to have shorter wait times. Also confirmed the website is back up now with the new 2FA system. Really appreciate this community having each other's backs during these technical issues!

If you're having trouble reaching NYS Department of Labor about claim status or need to speak with an agent about employer disputes, I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to someone when I couldn't get past the busy signals. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Really saved me time when my employer was contesting my claim and I needed to provide additional information.

honestly employers shouldn't be able to contest claims unless there's actual misconduct involved... like if someone just gets laid off due to budget cuts why should the company be able to fight it

I went through hell trying to get answers about this from NYS Department of Labor directly. Spent weeks trying to get through on the phone with no luck. Finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that actually got me connected to a real person who could explain the rules. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI that shows how it works. Way easier than trying to navigate the phone system yourself.

The whole system is so confusing! I'm dealing with partial disability and trying to work part time and nobody can give me straight answers about what I need to report and when.

Just went through this myself. Had to stop my unemployment when my disability got approved. Make sure you understand the timeline because there can be gaps in payments when you're switching between programs.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now. My advice is to be really careful about the timing if you're thinking about applying for SSI while on unemployment. When you apply for SSI, you're essentially saying you can't work due to disability, but with unemployment you're certifying weekly that you're able and available for work. These statements contradict each other. I'd recommend talking to someone at the Social Security office first to understand how an SSI application might affect your current unemployment benefits before you file anything. Don't want you to lose your current income while waiting months for an SSI decision.

i know this sounds weird but try calling from a different phone number if you can. I think they might be filtering out people who call repeatedly from the same number

I've been dealing with the same nightmare for weeks! The system is absolutely broken. I tried calling every single number on that list @Luca Conti posted and still couldn't get through. Finally broke down and used that Claimyr service everyone keeps mentioning - honestly wasn't sure if it was legit but I was desperate. They actually got me connected to an agent in about 90 minutes and I got my pending claims sorted out. Cost me $20 but saved my sanity and got me $2800 in back benefits. Sometimes you just gotta pay to play unfortunately 😔