Can't get through to NY unemployment claim specialist - phone hangs up every time

same thing happening 2 me for like 2 weeks now. sooooo annoying!!!! 😡

The NYSDOL phone system is absolutely designed to keep people out. I've been dealing with unemployment on and off since 2023, and I've learned a few tricks. Try calling at exactly 7:58am, right before they officially open. Sometimes you can get in the queue before the flood of calls. Also, Wednesdays seem to be slightly better than other days. And make sure you're selecting the correct prompts - sometimes people accidentally choose options that lead to automatic disconnects.

The system is SO backed up after all those layoffs in January. I had the same issue last month - they're probably getting 10,000+ calls a day and the system just can't handle it. EVENTUALLY I got through after two weeks of calling. Just keep trying every day, multiple times. It's a numbers game.

I had this exact problem in February and was losing my mind. After trying for days, I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that helped me get through to an agent. They basically keep dialing and navigating the phone tree for you until they get you in the queue, then they call you when they have a rep on the line. Saved me hours of frustration. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE - I was skeptical at first but it actually worked and I got my claim issue resolved the same day.

I work with unemployment claims frequently, and the call volume issue is definitely real and frustrating. A few professional tips beyond just timing your calls: 1. Make sure your online account is fully set up and all questionnaires are completed - sometimes you don't actually need to speak to someone if you handle everything in the portal. 2. Check if your issue can be resolved via secure message in the online portal instead of calling. Many claim specialists respond to those within 2-3 business days. 3. If you absolutely must speak with someone, try the alternate number (888-783-1370) and select the option for "Payment questions" rather than "Claim questions" - sometimes those queues are less full. 4. Document all your call attempts (dates, times) in case you need to explain a delay later. The system is definitely overloaded in 2025, especially with the economic changes we've seen this quarter.

I think its easier to just go to one of the career centers in person. I got tired of the phone thing an went to the one in brooklyn last week. had to wait like 2 hrs but at least i got my question answered. bring a book lol

After struggling with the exact same issue, I tried some of the suggestions here and FINALLY got through! What worked for me was: 1. I called the alternate number (888-783-1370) that someone suggested above 2. Called at exactly 7:57am 3. Selected option for payment questions instead of claim questions The wait was still about 30 minutes but at least I got in the queue instead of being hung up on! The representative was actually able to handle my claim question even though I technically selected the payment option menu. Just wanted to update in case anyone else is still struggling with this.

UPDATE: I finally got through! For anyone still following this thread, here's what worked: I tried the Claimyr service that someone recommended above, and within an hour I was talking to a claim specialist. They got all my issues sorted out, and I should be receiving my delayed payment within 3 business days. Thank you to everyone for your suggestions - this has been so stressful, and I appreciate all the help!