Just checked and I can get to the main ny.gov page but when I click on unemployment services it just spins forever. Definitely seems like their unemployment section is having problems specifically.

I'm having the exact same issue! Been trying since 6 AM and the unemployment portal just won't load. Really stressing me out because I can't afford to miss my weekly certification. Has anyone tried calling the technical support line instead of the regular unemployment line? Sometimes they have a separate number for website issues that might be less busy.

The whole protest system is broken IMO. Employers can just file frivolous protests to delay payments and there's no penalty for them. Meanwhile we're the ones who suffer financially while they take their sweet time investigating.

I went through this exact situation 3 months ago and it took about 10 weeks for my protest to be resolved. The waiting is absolutely brutal, especially when bills keep coming. A few things that helped me: 1) I called my local assemblyperson's office and they were able to put in an inquiry on my behalf which seemed to speed things up a bit, 2) I applied for emergency food assistance and utility help through 211 while waiting, and 3) I made sure to document every single interaction and keep copies of all paperwork. The good news is that once it's resolved, you'll get all the back pay for those pending weeks. Hang in there - I know it feels hopeless but it will get sorted out eventually.

THE UNEMPLOYMENT SYSTEM IS SO MESSED UP FOR STUDENTS! They make it seem like we don't deserve benefits even though we've been working and paying taxes. I had to fight for weeks to get my claim approved because they kept questioning my availability.

@CosmicCruiser definitely apply! I'm also a SUNY student and successfully got unemployment benefits last year when my restaurant job cut hours. The key things that helped me: 1) Keep detailed records of your work history and wages, 2) Be clear about your availability (I put down evenings/weekends around my class schedule), 3) Start your job search immediately and document everything. The retail experience you have makes you very employable. Don't let anyone discourage you - you paid into the system and you're entitled to benefits if you meet the requirements, which it sounds like you do.

Same thing happened to me last week - certified Tuesday, didn't get paid until the following Monday. No explanation, just delayed. As long as your claim status is good you should get it eventually.

I'm new to the NY unemployment system and this thread is really helpful! I just filed my first weekly claim yesterday (Wednesday) so I'm not sure what to expect for timing. Based on what everyone is saying, it sounds like 2-4 days is normal but can be unpredictable. @Omar hopefully your payment comes through soon since it shows as released! I'll keep an eye on my account and try not to stress if it takes a few extra days.

Just wanted to add that even if your employer claims misconduct, you should still file for benefits right away. Don't let their accusation stop you from applying. NYS Department of Labor will investigate and make their own determination based on the facts, not just what your employer says.

I went through something similar last year when I was fired from my retail job. My employer claimed misconduct but NYS Department of Labor approved my benefits after reviewing the facts. The key thing to remember is that misconduct has to be willful and work-related - being late due to circumstances beyond your control (like train delays) usually doesn't qualify. When you have your interview, be honest about what happened and explain that you had no control over the transportation issues. Also mention that you weren't given any warnings or progressive discipline. Document everything you can about the train delays from those specific dates if possible. Don't give up if they initially deny it - the appeal process exists for situations exactly like yours.