Just to update everyone - my payment actually came through yesterday morning! It took exactly 4 business days after they fixed the fraud flag. All 12 weeks of back payments came at once, which was a huge relief. Thanks to everyone who offered advice!

That's so encouraging to hear @Ryan Andre got their payment so quickly! I'm still waiting (it's been 2 business days since they told me it was fixed) but your timeline gives me hope. I'm checking my account obsessively every few hours lol. Did you get any kind of notification when the payment was processed, or did it just show up in your bank account?

The whole fraud thing is out of control right now. My neighbor works for NYSDOL (not in fraud dept tho) and she said they're completely overwhelmed with all the identity verification backlogs. There was some massive data breach earlier this year and now they're being super cautious with everything. Annoying for us but I guess better than paying out to scammers.

UPDATE: Just saw that all my backpay finally came through! It took exactly 32 days from when my account was flagged until resolution. Hang in there everyone - keep certifying weekly and eventually it should resolve.

I'm in a similar situation and finally got through after weeks of trying. Here's what worked for me: 1) Use Chrome browser in incognito mode, 2) Try filing very early in the morning (like 6-7 AM) when fewer people are online, 3) Have ALL your employment history ready beforehand - employer names, addresses, dates, and reason for separation. The system times out if you take too long entering info. Also, make sure you're on the correct site - it should be my.ny.gov/signin, not any other URL. Don't give up, it's frustrating but once you get it submitted the process moves pretty quickly after that.

I work at a local library in Rochester and we've had several people come in asking for help with unemployment applications when the website wasn't working. What we've found helpful is using our public computers which seem to have fewer issues, and our staff can sit with you while you fill it out if you need assistance. Most libraries have good internet connections and updated browsers. The Monroe County Library system has locations throughout Rochester - you might want to call ahead and ask if they can help you with the online application. It's not the same as in-person DOL service, but at least you'd have someone there to help troubleshoot if the site crashes again.

Just to add - make sure you have your banking info ready for direct deposit setup. It's way faster than waiting for checks in the mail. Also if you worked for multiple employers in the past year and a half, try to get all those details together even if some were part-time or temporary jobs.

Don't stress too much about having everything perfect before you start! I was in the same situation last year when my company had layoffs. The NYS Department of Labor website actually walks you through each step and tells you exactly what info they need as you go. The main things are your SSN, ID, work history for the last 18 months, and basic info about why you're unemployed. If you can't remember exact dates or addresses for previous jobs, you can estimate and update later. The important thing is getting your application submitted quickly so your benefit year starts. You've got this!

make sure u print those certification confirmations! ny unemployment system is held together with ducktape and prayers

Just went through this exact situation last week! Got approved after 6 weeks of waiting and yes, you'll definitely get backpay for all the weeks you certified. Mine hit my account 4 days after approval - all at once like everyone said. The key thing is making sure you certified for every single week during that waiting period, even if it felt pointless at the time. Check your payment history daily once you get approved, it'll change from "pending" to "released" when it's coming your way. Hang in there, you're almost at the finish line! 🙏