I want to update everyone - I FINALLY got this resolved! I ended up doing several things at once: 1) contacted my assembly member as suggested, 2) used Claimyr to get through to NYSDOL directly, and 3) re-uploaded my ID documents. Turns out there WAS an identity verification issue. The agent I spoke to was able to see that my documents never fully processed in the system. She manually verified everything while on the phone with me, and my claim was reactivated within 48 hours. All my backpay is scheduled to be deposited next Tuesday! Thank you all SO MUCH for your help - I was seriously about to give up.

Wow, this thread is such a goldmine of information! I'm dealing with a similar situation where my benefits got cut off unexpectedly back in October. Reading through everyone's experiences and solutions gives me hope that I can get this sorted out too. I'm definitely going to try the assemblyperson route first since multiple people mentioned success with that approach. It's so frustrating that we have to jump through all these hoops just to get the benefits we're entitled to, but at least there are people like you all sharing what actually works. Thanks for taking the time to update us on your resolution @Destiny Bryant - stories like yours keep the rest of us going!

Glad you got it resolved! For future reference, the best practice is to wait at least 3 business days before attempting to certify again or contact them. Their system runs batch processing that sometimes takes a few days to complete, especially around system maintenance periods.

Just wanted to add that I've been dealing with similar issues for the past month. The NY unemployment system has definitely been more unstable since their January update. I've found that using incognito/private browsing mode sometimes helps when the regular browser isn't working. Also, if you're using a mobile device, try switching to desktop - the mobile version seems to have more glitches. One tip that worked for me: after certifying, I always take a screenshot of the confirmation page AND write down the confirmation number if they give you one. It's saved me twice when having to call and prove I actually submitted my certification. Hope this helps others avoid the stress you went through!

Sounds like you're dealing with the Treasury Offset Program. They can take up to 25% of your benefits to pay federal debts. The most common reasons are tax debts, defaulted student loans, or child support. Call the Treasury Offset Program directly at 1-800-304-3107 to find out what debt they're collecting. It's usually faster than trying to reach unemployment.

This exact same thing happened to my brother last year! He was getting his full $487 weekly and then boom - suddenly only $365 with "offset" showing up. Turned out it was for unpaid state taxes from 2020 that he had completely forgotten about. The frustrating part is they gave him zero warning - just started taking the money. He had to use one of those callback services (I think it was claimyr too) to actually reach someone and find out what was going on. Once he knew what it was for, he was able to set up a payment plan with the tax department to reduce the offset amount. Definitely call that Treasury Offset number someone mentioned - that's probably your fastest route to getting answers!

Yes! The money finally appeared in my new account this morning - exactly 5 business days after I made the change. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for the reassurance and advice. For anyone reading this with the same problem, just be patient - the system works, it's just slow.

Glad to hear everything worked out! This thread is super helpful for anyone going through the same stress. I'm bookmarking this in case I ever need to change my direct deposit info - now I know to expect about 5 business days and not to panic if it doesn't show up immediately. The security review explanation makes total sense too. Thanks for updating us with the resolution!

If your claim is pending this long you need to call them asap! Try early morning or use claimyr.com to get through. Waiting since May isn't normal, something might be wrong with your claim

@Andre Rousseau definitely keep calling or try that claimyr service people mentioned! Being pending since May is way too long - there's probably a specific issue holding up your claim that needs to be resolved. In the meantime, the formula is pretty straightforward: find your highest earning quarter in your base period, divide by 26, and that's roughly your weekly amount (max $504). But honestly getting your claim approved should be the priority right now!