anyone else getting error messages when trying to claim weekly benefits? system been acting up 🤔

@Jade O'Malley I feel your pain! Been through this exact situation before. The waiting period is brutal but there might be some things you can do in the meantime. Have you looked into local emergency assistance programs? Many counties have rent/utility assistance while you're waiting. Also worth checking if you qualify for SNAP benefits if you haven't already. The 211 helpline (dial 2-1-1) can connect you with local resources. Hang in there - I know it's tough but you'll get through this! 💪

I had to wait almost 7 weeks last year but mine was complicated because I had worked in two different states recently. Once they finally made the decision everything went smoothly though. The waiting is definitely the worst part.

I'm going through the same thing right now - filed my claim 3 weeks ago and still showing "pending review." What's really frustrating is that there's no way to get a realistic timeline or even know what stage of the process you're in. I've been keeping detailed records of everything I've submitted just in case they need additional documentation. Has anyone had success getting through to someone who could actually explain what's causing the delay? The uncertainty is almost worse than the wait itself.

I'm sorry you're going through this situation. Based on what you've described, you should definitely file for unemployment benefits right away. The fact that mandatory overtime wasn't part of your original job description and you have legitimate childcare constraints works in your favor. NYS Department of Labor looks at whether the termination was due to misconduct, and refusing overtime for documented personal reasons (especially childcare) typically doesn't qualify as willful misconduct. Keep all your documentation about your work performance and any communications regarding the overtime policy. Don't let them intimidate you - you have rights as a worker and parent.

I'm really sorry you're dealing with this stress, especially with a family to support. From what you've shared, you have a strong case for unemployment benefits. The key factors working in your favor are: 1) mandatory overtime wasn't in your original job description, 2) you have legitimate childcare responsibilities, and 3) your work performance was otherwise satisfactory. NYS Department of Labor generally doesn't consider refusing overtime due to childcare constraints as misconduct. When you file (and definitely do it ASAP), be prepared to explain your situation clearly during any adjudication process. Document everything - your original job description, any communications about the overtime policy, and your childcare arrangements. You've got this, and don't let them make you feel like you did something wrong for prioritizing your family responsibilities.

dont bother calling the main number nobody ever answers. try this secret number instead: *** *** **** [Comment removed by moderator - no posting of unauthorized phone numbers]

I went through this exact same nightmare last fall! The self-employment question glitch is so frustrating. What finally worked for me was a combination of things: 1. I tried the mobile site trick mentioned above - it did help bypass the question once but then it came back 2. I kept detailed screenshots of every error message (super important for when you finally talk to someone) 3. I eventually used Claimyr after seeing so many people mention it here - got connected to an agent in about 90 minutes who fixed it immediately The agent told me my account had some kind of "employment classification conflict" from old data in their system. Once they cleared that flag, I was able to certify normally and got all my back payments within a week. Don't give up! I know it feels hopeless but this IS fixable. The system is just terrible at handling these edge cases. Document everything and keep trying - you'll get through eventually. Hang in there! 💪

ugh the system is so confusing, why don't they just tell you this stuff upfront?? spent weeks worrying about nothing

I totally get the worry about credit impact! I was in the same boat when I first started collecting benefits. Just wanted to add that if you're concerned about that overpayment notice, don't panic - you have options. You can appeal it if you think it's incorrect, or contact NYS Department of Labor to set up a payment plan if you do owe money. The key is responding promptly rather than ignoring it. I had to deal with something similar and they were actually pretty reasonable about working out a manageable payment schedule. Your regular UI benefits definitely won't hurt your credit though - that's just government assistance helping you get back on your feet!