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Had the same issue a few weeks ago! The key is to call them as soon as possible. I used the regular DOL number (888-209-8124) and kept calling until I got through - took about 3 hours of redials but finally connected. The agent was actually really helpful and backdated my missed week within 48 hours. Don't stress too much, they deal with this all the time and can usually fix it if you explain what happened!
From what I understand, NYS Department of Labor processes intercept orders pretty quickly once they receive them from child support enforcement. The bigger delay is usually on the child support side - getting the paperwork processed and submitted. You should be able to call your caseworker and ask for a status update on when exactly they submitted the order to unemployment.
I went through this exact situation about 6 months ago. The intercept took about 3 weeks once child support enforcement actually submitted the order to NYS DOL, but here's what I wish someone had told me: keep detailed records of everything. Document when you contacted child support enforcement, when they said they submitted the order, and follow up weekly. Also, in NY they can typically take up to 65% of unemployment benefits for child support, but it depends on if there are other garnishments. The amount varies based on his benefit amount and what's considered necessary for his basic living expenses. Hang in there - it's frustrating but once it starts, at least you'll get something consistently.
wait so if I don't file one week I lose the money for that week forever?? that seems really harsh especially if you just forget or something comes up
One thing that helped me was setting up a weekly phone alarm for Sunday evenings to remind me to file my weekly certification. I also bookmarked the my.ny.gov portal on my phone so I could access it easily. The questions really are straightforward once you get into the routine - they mainly want to know if you worked any hours that week, what job search activities you did, and confirm you're still available for work. Just make sure you keep a simple log of where you applied for jobs each week since they ask for specific details about your job search efforts.
The system is so confusing with all the different programs over the years. I remember getting those extra payments during the pandemic but I wasn't sure if anything similar was still available. Thanks for clearing this up everyone!
Just want to add that if you're unsure about your benefit amount calculation, you can also check your online NY.gov account under the unemployment services section. It should show a breakdown of how they calculated your weekly benefit amount based on your base period earnings. The $504 you're getting does sound like it could be the maximum, but it's worth verifying that it's calculated correctly from your actual wage history. Sometimes there can be errors in how they record your earnings from different employers.
Noah Torres
Thank you everyone for the helpful advice! I tried calling this morning but couldn't get through after 50+ attempts. I managed to start the reactivation process online, and it's asking me to explain my unavailability. I'm documenting everything about the family emergency and will try calling again tomorrow. Really appreciate all your suggestions!
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Samantha Hall
•Glad you started the process! Keep trying the phone number - mornings are usually packed. I found better luck calling around 3:30pm. If you continue having trouble getting through, seriously consider that Claimyr service I mentioned. It saved me hours of redial frustration, and with your BYE date approaching, time is critical.
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Ethan Clark
I went through something similar earlier this year! The good news is your benefits don't just vanish when you stop certifying - your claim becomes inactive but can be reactivated. Since September 5th is your BYE date, you definitely need to act fast though. I had a gap of about 6 weeks due to a medical issue in my family, and here's what worked for me: 1. Start the reactivation online through NY.gov (sounds like you already did this - great!) 2. Be very detailed in explaining your family emergency - they want to know WHY you weren't available for work 3. Make sure to emphasize that you're now ready and actively seeking work 4. Keep calling - I know it's frustrating but persistence pays off The questionnaire they make you fill out is pretty straightforward, just be honest about your situation. Family emergencies can qualify as "good cause" for not being available, especially if you can show it was beyond your control. You're doing the right thing by starting the process now. Don't panic - lots of people have been in your exact situation and gotten their benefits restored. Just stay on top of it until it's resolved!
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