The DOL website is SO confusing too!!! nowhere does it clearly say you have to apply immediately or lose those weeks. they should have to put that in HUGE LETTERS on the homepage!!

I've been following this thread and wanted to share some additional resources that might help. If you do end up going to a hearing, you can also contact your local legal aid society - many of them have unemployment specialists who can help you prepare for free. Also, I've found that keeping detailed records of EVERY interaction with DOL (dates, times, agent names/ID numbers, what was said) is crucial. Even if it seems minor at the time, it can become important evidence later. The system is definitely frustrating and seems designed to discourage people from pursuing what they're owed. Don't let them wear you down - you have a right to fight this!

Don't give up! I got denied initially too but my appeal was approved. Make sure you file the appeal within 30 days of your determination date. Include any pay stubs from your recent work to show your earnings. The alternate base period saved me.

same thing happened to my neighbor. turned out she quit her previous job before the retail one and NYS Department of Labor counted that as voluntary separation. even though the retail job was a layoff, the earlier quit disqualified her. might want to check if you had any other jobs in your base period

In most cases payment holds are resolved within 3-4 weeks if there are no complications. Make sure you respond immediately to any requests for additional documentation if they contact you. Sometimes the hold is just a routine audit and will clear automatically.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now - been on hold for 10 days with no explanation. The uncertainty is the worst part because you can't plan anything or know when it might resolve. I've been calling the main number (888-209-8124) every morning right at 8am when they open, but even then I usually get a busy signal or get disconnected after waiting on hold for hours. One thing I did find helpful was checking the "Messages" section in my online account daily - sometimes they'll post updates there even if they don't email you. Hang in there, we're all dealing with this broken system together.

idk why no one is saying the obvious but have you tried using a different device completely? my phone kept failing but my roommates iphone worked first try. something about the camera quality makes a huge difference.

I went through this exact same nightmare last month! What finally worked for me was using a friend's newer iPhone instead of my old Android - the camera quality made all the difference. Also, try doing it during off-peak hours like early morning (6-8am) when their servers aren't as overloaded. I know it's frustrating when rent is due, but don't give up on the online verification yet - it's still faster than mailing docs. If you do end up mailing, definitely send everything certified mail with tracking so they can't "lose" your paperwork. Hang in there, you'll get through this!

Check if you can access any correspondence or messages in your online account. Sometimes there are documents or notices posted there that explain what the issue is, even if you didn't receive them by mail or email. Also make sure your contact information is current in case they're trying to reach you.

I'm dealing with the exact same thing right now! Been stuck on "issue on file" for almost 3 weeks and it's driving me crazy. I did manage to get through to someone last week (took calling literally hundreds of times) and they told me it was just a routine review of my separation reason, but they couldn't give me a timeline for when it would be resolved. They said to just keep certifying weekly and wait. It's so frustrating when you're counting on that money and have no idea what's happening or how long it will take.