Can I verify my NY unemployment identity by mailing documents instead of using ID.me?

I had the same concern last month! From what I discovered, mailing documents IS technically possible, but it's not advertised anywhere on the NYSDOL website. You need to call and specifically request a paper verification form (I think it's called DOL-X740), and then mail that with copies of your ID documents to their Albany processing center. The problem is actually getting someone on the phone to request this form...

I'm a career counselor who helps clients with unemployment claims. Yes, there is an alternative verification pathway, but it's much slower than using ID.me. The paper verification process can add 4-6 weeks to your claim processing time. You'll need to: 1. Call the NYSDOL at 888-209-8124 to request the identity verification form 2. Mail copies (not originals) of your driver's license/ID, Social Security card, and birth certificate 3. Include 2 proof of address documents (utility bills, lease, etc.) 4. Send everything via certified mail to their identity verification unit This is the official alternative, but please be aware that your benefits will be significantly delayed compared to the online method.

Hey there! I was super hesitant about ID.me too, but after researching it, I found out they're actually a legitimate identity verification service that works with many government agencies. I ended up using it and it was surprisingly quick - took about 10 minutes. Just make sure you're on the official site linked from the NYSDOL portal. If you're absolutely against using it, the paper verification is possible but it'll delay your benefits by weeks or even months. The NYSDOL is seriously backlogged with paper processing right now in 2025.

I REFUSED to use ID.me and spent 3 WEEKS trying to get through to someone at the unemployment office!!! Every day calling and calling and getting disconnected or waiting on hold for HOURS only to get hung up on!!! FINALLY I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me a callback from an actual NYSDOL agent within 2 hours!! They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE When I finally spoke with the agent, they sent me the paper verification forms and I mailed in my documents. It took an extra 4 weeks to process but at least I didn't have to give my biometric data to some random company. Worth it for my privacy!

i used id.me for my claim last month and it was fine tbh. took like 15min total and my claim got approved 2 days later. the video selfie thing is weird but whatever lol. paper forms probably take forever with how slow nysdol is with everything else

The whole ID.me system is a SCAM to collect your personal data!!! My cousin works in cybersecurity and says these companies sell your info to marketing companies. They WANT you to think paper verification is too slow so you'll just give in and use their system. Don't fall for it!! But good luck getting through to request the paper forms - the phone system is designed to make you give up!!!

To provide some clarity based on official information: As of March 2025, NYSDOL offers three identity verification methods: 1. ID.me online verification (processing time: 1-3 days) 2. Paper document verification (processing time: 30-45 days) 3. In-person verification at select career centers (by appointment only) The paper option requires form DOL-X740 which must be requested by phone. The career center option was recently added but appointments are extremely limited. Both alternative options will significantly delay your benefits, but they do exist for those with privacy concerns.

After trying to get through on the phone for days, I finally used that Claimyr service someone mentioned earlier to speak with an agent about the paper verification. NYSDOL doesn't want people to know this, but if you specifically mention the "alternative identity verification accommodation process" (use those exact words), they're required to offer you the paper option. Just be prepared to wait 4-6 weeks longer for your benefits to start.

my freind tried the paper way in febuary and still hasnt got aproved but my other friend used id.me and got money in like a week so just saying

Update: I decided to try calling using that Claimyr service, and I actually got through to a real person at NYSDOL! The agent confirmed I can use the paper verification process and is sending me the forms. She said it will take about 4-6 weeks longer than using ID.me, but at least I have the option. For anyone else with privacy concerns, make sure to specifically ask for the "alternative identity verification accommodation process" when you call. Thanks everyone for your help!

I'm going through this exact same situation right now! I've been hesitant about ID.me for weeks because I'm really uncomfortable with biometric data collection. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been super helpful - it's good to know there are actually alternatives even if they're not well-publicized. I think I'm going to try calling and requesting the "alternative identity verification accommodation process" like others mentioned. Even if it takes longer, having control over my personal data feels worth the wait. Has anyone who went the paper route had any issues with their documents getting lost in the mail? I'm thinking of sending everything certified mail with return receipt just to be safe.

I just went through this same process last week! After reading all the advice here, I called using the phrase "alternative identity verification accommodation process" and got through to an agent who was really helpful. She explained that while the paper route takes 4-6 weeks longer, it's completely legitimate and they process these requests regularly. One thing I learned that might help others - the agent told me that if you're currently unemployed and need benefits urgently, you can actually start the paper verification process AND still use ID.me later if you change your mind. The paper application doesn't lock you out of the online option. She said some people start with paper for peace of mind, then switch to ID.me if their financial situation becomes too tight to wait. I ended up going with the paper route and sent everything certified mail yesterday. The waiting is hard, but I feel much better about protecting my biometric data. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - this thread was incredibly helpful!