Quick update for those following this thread: I completed my extension process successfully, but I learned that the requirements became more strict in 2025. Now they require documentation of at least 5 job applications per week (used to be 3), and they're actually verifying them more frequently. Pro tip: Take screenshots of every job application confirmation page and save emails from employers. NYSDOL randomly selected me for a job search audit during my extension process, and I had to provide evidence for every week I certified.

When I went through this last summer, I had a similar experience where they told me to keep certifying while they processed additional funds. I was worried because I have kids and bills, so I totally understand your panic! In my case, I received a notice in my online message center about 10 days later asking me to verify some information about my previous employment. After I responded to that, it took another week before the extension was approved. So about 2.5 weeks total, and yes, they did backpay for the weeks I certified during the wait period.

my cousin had to verify his identity again when he changed his bank info so maybe be ready for that just in case

If anyone else is looking for this information, you can also update your payment method from direct deposit to debit card (or vice versa) using the same online process. The NY unemployment debit card is now through KeyBank and has fewer fees than the old card system.

UPDATE: I finally got through! For anyone else struggling with this, here's what worked: I used Claimyr (from the suggestion above) and got connected to an agent in about 30 minutes. The agent was able to pull up my account and see that there was indeed a calculation error on my 1099-G. They're sending me a corrected version within 10 business days. The agent also explained that the error happened because I had some weeks where benefits were adjusted retroactively, but the tax system didn't properly reconcile those adjustments. For anyone with similar issues, make sure you mention "retroactive adjustments" specifically when you get through. Thanks everyone for your help!

My cousin had the same problem but with her california unemployment. She spent weeks trying to get it fixed! I told her she should move to NY because our system is actually better than most states lol. At least here you can eventually get someone on the phone! Good luck with your taxes!

wait i just remembered my friend had to do this and she went to the unemployment office in person and they printed it for her right there

So did you get your documents? Which method worked best?

anyone know when they're fixing the phone system??? been having problems for weeks now

UPDATE: Just wanted to let everyone know my payment came through as normal this morning, so the self-employment question didn't cause any delays. Thanks for all the helpful information everyone!

try calling right when they open in the morning thats how i finally got thru

UPDATE: I finally got through to someone! I used that Claimyr service and got connected to an agent in about an hour. Turns out when I reported my one day of work, some flag got triggered in the system that put my claim on hold. The agent was able to see that it was just a temporary job and immediately reactivated my claim. She said my payments should resume with my next certification on Sunday. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help.

This is the SCAM they've been running for YEARS. Call your STATE REPRESENTATIVES about this!! The system is BROKEN and they keep cutting benefits while corporations get BAILOUTS! I went through my entire 26 weeks and ended up having to move back with my parents at 42 years old because the job market is GARBAGE and 26 weeks is NOT ENOUGH time to find decent employment in this economy!

I want to thank everyone for all the helpful advice. I was able to get through to NYSDOL today (used that Claimyr service someone mentioned - totally worth it), and they confirmed everything you all said about the 26-week limit. The agent helped me calculate exactly when my benefits will end and gave me resources for what to do afterward. I've also scheduled an appointment with a career counselor at my local center. Still frustrated with how poorly this was communicated, but at least now I can plan accordingly. Thanks again for helping me understand what's going on!

Have you checked if there's maybe an issue with your return? My cousin had this happen and turned out there was a math error. Go to the IRS website and look at your account transcript - it'll show if there's any adjustment or issue flags.

UPDATE: I wanted to thank everyone for their help! I tried the Claimyr service that was recommended here, and it actually worked! I got through to an IRS agent who told me my return was flagged because of a mismatch between what I reported for unemployment and what was on my 1099-G. Once I explained the situation, they were able to process my return. My refund should be deposited within 2 weeks! So relieved!

my roommate said they release payments on specific days of the week depending on last name. anyone know if thats true??

UPDATE: The rest of my payments just hit my account this morning! So it was exactly 2 business days after the waiting week payment came through. Thanks everyone for the advice and support! What a relief to finally have this sorted out.

i got the same problem rn. money shows released on dol website since March 8 but nothin on my card yet. let me know if u figure it out!

One more thing to check - log into your KeyBank account online (not just the mobile app) and look for any alerts or action items. Sometimes they place a hold on deposits for verification but only notify you through the web portal, not the app. It's a ridiculous system but worth checking.