Can I file unemployment a different way if NYS Department of Labor online system isn't working?
The my.ny.gov website keeps crashing when I try to submit my initial unemployment claim and I'm getting really frustrated. I've been trying for three days now and either the site times out or I get error messages. Is there another way to file unemployment a different method? Can I call NYS Department of Labor directly or go somewhere in person? I lost my job last week and really need to get this claim started.
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Millie Long
Yes, you can call the NYS Department of Labor tel-claim line at 888-209-8124. It's automated but you can file your initial claim over the phone. Just have your Social Security number, employer info from your last 18 months of work, and bank account details ready. The system is usually less busy early morning or late evening.
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Santiago Diaz
•Thank you! Do I still need to set up the online account later or does the phone filing handle everything?
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KaiEsmeralda
same thing happened to me last month the website is terrible, i ended up driving to the career center on main street and they helped me file in person
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Debra Bai
•Most career centers can help with initial filing, but you'll still need to create your online account for weekly claims. The phone option is usually faster than going in person though.
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Gabriel Freeman
I was having the same problem reaching NYS Department of Labor through normal channels and someone told me about Claimyr.com - it's a service that helps you get through to actual unemployment agents by phone. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Might be worth checking out if you keep having issues with both online and the automated phone system.
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Santiago Diaz
•Is this legit? I'm worried about giving my info to third party services.
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Gabriel Freeman
•I was skeptical too but they just help you get connected to the real NYS Department of Labor agents. Way better than sitting on hold for hours.
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Laura Lopez
Whatever you do, don't wait too long to file. Your benefit year starts when you actually submit the claim, not when you first lost your job. The longer you wait, the more potential benefits you're losing. Try the phone system first thing tomorrow morning at 8 AM.
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Santiago Diaz
•Good point about the timing. I'll definitely try calling first thing in the morning.
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Nora Bennett
I had the exact same issue with the website crashing constantly! What worked for me was clearing my browser cache and cookies, then trying a different browser entirely. I switched from Chrome to Firefox and was able to get through. Also try using incognito/private browsing mode. If that doesn't work, definitely call the tel-claim line like Millie mentioned - just be prepared for a long wait time even on the phone system.
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Aiden O'Connor
•Thanks for the browser tip! I hadn't thought of trying a different browser. I've been using Chrome this whole time. Will definitely try Firefox and incognito mode before calling tomorrow morning. Appreciate the help!
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Chloe Taylor
I work at a local workforce development office and see this website issue constantly. Another option is to visit any American Job Center (One-Stop Career Center) in your area - they have staff who can help you file your initial claim on their computers which sometimes have better access to the system. You can find locations at https://www.labor.ny.gov/career-center-locator/. Also, if you do get through on the phone system, write down your confirmation number immediately - the system sometimes drops calls right after you submit. Don't give up, the first week you're eligible is when your benefit year starts, so getting it filed ASAP is crucial.
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