This whole thread is incredibly helpful - I'm dealing with the exact same issue right now (week 3 of verification limbo). I've tried calling both NYSDOL and ID.me multiple times but keep getting the runaround. Based on what everyone's shared here, I'm going to try the claimyr.com route first since multiple people have had success with that, and I'll use those specific phrases about "manual verification override due to ID.me integration failure." If that doesn't work, I'll escalate to my state rep's office. It's frustrating that we have to jump through all these hoops for a system that's clearly broken, but at least now I have a game plan. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - this is exactly the kind of practical advice that actually helps people navigate this mess!

This is such a widespread issue and it's infuriating that people have to become system experts just to get benefits they're entitled to. I'm bookmarking this thread because the collective knowledge here is better than anything you'll get from official support channels. The fact that multiple people have had success with claimyr.com and those specific technical phrases tells you everything about how broken the regular process is. For anyone else reading this - document EVERYTHING, be persistent, and don't let them bounce you back and forth between systems. Your cousin shouldn't have to wait months for money he's already qualified for. Hope one of these approaches works for him soon!

this sucks i ran out of benefits too and nobody at labor dept will answer the phone!! been trying for weeks to find out if i can apply again. the whole system is broken

I'm in a similar situation - my benefits ran out a few weeks ago and I'm really confused about the whole process. From what I've been reading online, it seems like there might be some emergency assistance programs or food stamps that could help bridge the gap until you can file a new claim. Has anyone looked into those options? Also, I've heard that some people qualify for extended benefits depending on the unemployment rate in their area, but I'm not sure how to check if that applies to us in New York. This whole thing is so stressful when you're already dealing with job hunting.

I wonder if this is something different from the regular unemployment exclusion? I already got that refund last year, so if you're just now seeing this, it might be something else...

Hey Jackie! I went through the exact same thing last year. That $1,189.58 is definitely yours - it's the unemployment tax adjustment refund from the American Rescue Plan Act. The IRS automatically recalculated your 2020 taxes to exclude up to $10,200 of unemployment income from being taxable. Here's what those confusing lines mean: - "Reduced or removed prior tax assessed" (-$1,178.00): This is the tax you originally paid on unemployment that you no longer owe - Interest credited (-$11.58): They're paying you interest for taking so long to process this - Total refund: $1,189.58 Most people are getting these as paper checks even if they normally get direct deposit. Mine took about 3 weeks to arrive after the transcript date. Definitely keep checking your mailbox! The notice they issued on the same day is just explaining the adjustment - totally normal. That January tax relief credit is likely related to stimulus/recovery rebate credits, separate from this unemployment thing. You're getting real money, just be patient! 🙂

The whole system is ridiculous honestly. They make you jump through so many hoops just to get benefits you paid into. I got fired for being 10 minutes late THREE times and they still tried to deny my claim initially. Had to appeal and everything. NYS Department of Labor takes forever to make decisions.

I'm going through something similar right now - got fired last month for "performance issues" but I suspect it was retaliation for asking about overtime pay. Just wanted to add that when you file your claim, make sure to document everything about your termination. Keep any emails, write down exactly what your manager said, dates, etc. If your employer contests your claim (which they might), having good documentation really helps your case. Also don't let them intimidate you - many employers will tell you that you're not eligible just to discourage you from filing, but that's not their call to make. The NYS Department of Labor will investigate and make the final determination. Good luck!

lmaooo good luck getting anyone on the phone without waiting 4 hours 🤡

First time filing can be nerve-wracking but you're on the right track! Just to add to what everyone else said - make sure you keep all your paperwork from when you got laid off/fired. They might ask for it later. Also download the NY Labor app on your phone, makes the weekly certifications way easier than doing it on the website. The waiting sucks but hang in there! 💪