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im so confused about this tourism thing. i worked at a restaurant in queens for 3 years and got laid off march 2020. never heard about applying for this. am i automatically getting something or did i miss a deadline to apply??
You didn't miss anything! There was no application process. They're using data from previous unemployment claims to identify eligible workers. If you filed for unemployment in 2020 after losing your restaurant job, you should be on their list. Cards are being mailed through June.
Same thing happened to me! Got a random KeyBank card last month and was totally confused since my unemployment ended in September. Turns out it was the Tourism Worker Recovery Fund - I got $2,100 for working at a restaurant in Manhattan before COVID. The card had my full name and came in an official envelope with NY State logos. I was super paranoid about scams but called KeyBank directly and they confirmed it was legit. Activated it right away and the money was available immediately. If you worked in hospitality before March 2020 and filed for unemployment, you're probably eligible. No application needed - they automatically identified people through the unemployment system. Just make sure the card has your actual name on it and came in official packaging!
ugh why is everything so broken?? 🤬 we're just trying to survive here and they make it impossible. the whole system needs an overhaul
Calm down, Karen. They're probably just overwhelmed with claims. It sucks but no need to go all conspiracy theory.
@profile16 overwhelmed? its been 2 years since covid started. they've had plenty of time to fix this mess 🙄
I had this exact same problem! Here's what finally worked for me: 1. Try logging in during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening) 2. Use the "forgot password" option to reset your login credentials - sometimes the system gets confused about authentication 3. If you're getting error messages, screenshot them and save the error codes - it'll help when you do get through to someone 4. Check if there are any outstanding documents or forms they need from you that might be blocking your weekly certification The pending status is super frustrating, but don't give up on the weekly certifications even if the system is glitchy. You'll need those to get backpay once everything gets sorted out. Hang in there! 💪
Any update on your situation? Were you able to reach someone and get an explanation? For others reading this thread in the future, it's worth noting that NYSDOL now has specific requirements about reporting even the smallest amount of work or income during claim weeks. Missing even a few hours of part-time work can trigger an automatic forfeiture. The rules changed in late 2024 and they're being enforced more strictly in 2025.
Update: Finally got through today! Apparently they flagged my account for a "verification interview" but the notice went to my old address (even though I updated it in the system). Because I missed the interview, they automatically forfeited my benefits. The agent scheduled a new interview for next week and said my benefits should be reinstated if everything checks out. Thanks everyone for the support and advice - this forum has been a lifesaver during this stressful time!
So glad you got through and found out what happened! The address issue is incredibly frustrating - I've seen this happen to several people where they update their address online but somehow the system doesn't sync properly for mailed notices. It's like they're using two different databases or something. At least you have a clear path forward now with the rescheduled interview. Make sure to confirm your current address with the agent during the interview so this doesn't happen again. Wishing you the best of luck next week!
This address syncing issue is such a common problem! I went through the same thing when I moved last year - updated my address in the online portal but they kept sending important notices to my old place. It's ridiculous that in 2025 they can't get their systems to talk to each other properly. @8cc6271c379d glad you finally got answers though! The verification interviews are usually pretty straightforward as long as you have your documentation ready. Just make sure to have all your work search records organized and any pay stubs or employment letters handy. You've got this!
UGH the whole system is so frustrating!!! My claim has been awaiting processing for FOUR WEEKS now and every time I call they just say 'wait for a letter' but no letter ever comes. NYS Department of Labor is completely broken.
Four weeks?? That's terrible. Did they ever tell you what specifically they're waiting for?
The "awaiting processing" status is totally normal for new claims, so don't panic! NYS Department of Labor has to verify your employment history, wages, and reason for separation before they can approve your claim. Since you were laid off from your warehouse job, that should be straightforward - layoffs are typically approved faster than other separation reasons. Make sure you have your employer's information handy in case they need to contact them for verification. The process usually takes 2-3 weeks, but can be longer during busy periods. Keep checking your account regularly for any updates or requests for additional information.
Natasha Volkov
The whole system is backwards if you ask me. Why should small businesses get penalized for economic downturns that force layoffs? No wonder employers try to contest legitimate claims.
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Keisha Jackson
•It's insurance though - businesses pay in when times are good to cover workers when times are bad. The experience rating system encourages employers to maintain stable employment when possible.
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Fatima Al-Hashimi
Just to clarify for anyone still confused - in NY, employers pay unemployment insurance taxes based on their "experience rating" which goes up if they have more claims filed against them. So while your boss isn't cutting you a personal check each week, your claim does contribute to potentially higher taxes for his business in the future. That's probably why he's being dramatic about it, but it's still not fair for him to make you feel guilty about collecting benefits you're entitled to after being laid off.
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