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! 💪

just another way the government makes it impossible for small businesses to succeed... all these mandatory insurance requirements add up fast

For anyone starting a business in NY, I'd recommend checking out the NYS Department of Labor's online employer registration system. It walks you through the process step by step and calculates your contribution rates based on your industry classification. The system is actually pretty user-friendly compared to trying to figure everything out from scattered information online. You can also download the employer handbook which explains all the requirements in detail. Better to get familiar with the system early rather than scrambling to register once you hit that $300 threshold.

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.

honestly just keep calling until you get someone who actually knows what they're talking about. took me like 15 tries but eventually got a good agent who explained everything

I went through this same runaround last year and what finally worked was being very specific about what I needed when I called. Instead of just saying "I need help with my claim," I'd say "I need to speak with an adjudication specialist about claim number [your number] that's been pending for three weeks." The regular call center folks will try to help but they literally can't access the adjudication queue - only the specialists can see what documents or information they're waiting for. Also, try calling right when they open at 8am, you're more likely to get through to someone who can actually transfer you to the right department.

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!