Keep trying claimyr.com! They helped me reach an agent after weeks of trying on my own. The unemployment phone system is literally designed to make you give up, I'm convinced. Once I finally got through to a human, they escalated my case and I had a resolution within days.

This is absolutely infuriating and I'm so sorry you're dealing with this! I went through something similar last year when someone filed for benefits using my info. A few things that helped me: 1. Keep calling at exactly 8am when they open - I literally set 5 alarms and had my phone ready to redial immediately if it didn't go through 2. Document every single attempt you make to contact them (screenshots, call logs, etc) - you'll need this paper trail 3. Contact your local state assembly member's office - they have caseworkers who specialize in helping constituents with DOL issues and can escalate your case 4. File Form 14039 with the IRS immediately if you haven't already - this protects you from penalties while the fraud gets sorted out 5. Check if your employer can provide you with alternative tax documents to help with filing The whole system is broken and it shouldn't be this hard for victims to get help. Don't let them wear you down - keep pushing until you get someone who actually listens and takes action. You've got this! 💪

Quick tip that worked for me: call your local state representative's office! I was shocked but when I explained my situation, their constituent services person made a call and got my account reset within 48 hours. Worth a try if you're desperate!

I went through this exact same nightmare last year! The NY unemployment system is absolutely broken when it comes to old accounts. Here's what finally worked for me after weeks of frustration: 1. Don't waste more time with the website - it's not designed to handle this situation 2. Call the main unemployment line at 8:00 AM SHARP when they open (888-209-8124) 3. If that doesn't work, try calling your local CareerCenter - they sometimes have direct lines to help with account issues 4. As a last resort, I actually drove to a physical unemployment office and they were able to reset my account on the spot The key is getting to a real human who can manually override the system. Once they do that, you can update your email and password and file your claim normally. The whole process took about 15 minutes once I actually got someone on the phone. Don't give up! This is a known issue and they deal with it all the time. You just need to get past their terrible phone system first.

wait so if my employer contests will i have to pay back benefits if i lose?? i've been getting payments for 3 weeks now while my claim is being reviewed

The adjudication process typically takes 2-4 weeks but can be longer depending on case complexity. During this time, NYS Department of Labor will contact both you and your employer for statements and documentation. Make sure to respond promptly to any requests for information. Keep detailed records of all communications and submit any evidence that supports your case - work schedules, text messages, emails, witness statements if available. The key is proving that either the termination wasn't for misconduct under NY law, or that your employer didn't follow their own progressive discipline policies. Good luck with your case!

This whole system is so confusing. Like why don't they just put this basic information somewhere easy to find? I spent forever trying to figure out the same thing when I got furloughed.

Just wanted to confirm what others have said - the $104 minimum is correct for 2025. I actually had a similar situation where I was working part-time making around $250 a week, and when I calculated my benefits it came out to about $125 weekly, which was above the minimum. The good news is that even in worst-case scenarios, you're guaranteed that $104 floor. Also, don't forget that you might be eligible for additional federal programs or extensions depending on your situation. The NYS Department of Labor website has a benefit calculator tool buried somewhere in their site that can give you a rough estimate before you file your claim.

just file now better late than never!! dont beat yourself up about it

Hey Max, I've been in a similar situation and I know it's frustrating to realize you missed out on those weeks of benefits. Just want to add that when you do file, make sure you're completely honest about your separation date and reason for leaving. NYS Department of Labor will verify everything with your employer anyway, and any discrepancies can delay or complicate your claim. Also, once you start receiving benefits, don't forget you have to certify every week that you're actively looking for work - missing those weekly certifications can stop your payments. The construction industry can be tough with seasonal layoffs, so definitely get that claim filed today if you can.