Filed for ny unemployment in November but no backpay - how to actually get it?

Have you tried checking your spam folder or junk mail? Sometimes they send important notices there and if you miss responding to something they freeze your account. Happened to me and I almost lost my mind.

After banging my head against the wall for months with the same issue, I finally found Claimyr.com which basically gets you a callback with an actual rep. Got my entire backpay released within a week after talking to someone for like 15 mins. Talking to an agent got my $ unlocked so fast it was the only way I could actually talk to a live agent. Check out this video too: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE

I had the same issue last year. You need to call and specifically ask about "BACKDATE REQUEST". Don't let them transfer you or say they'll "note your account"... that does nothing! You need to specifically get them to submit a form for backdating your claim. Be nice but firm!

What payment method did you select when u filed? Direct deposit or debit card? If u selected debit card, sometimes they mail it to an old address. If direct deposit, double check your banking info is correct on file.

Honestly the NY unemployment system is DESIGNED to be frustrating. They count on people giving up. You HAVE to get someone on the phone - it's the only way to fix backpay issues. The website/email is useless for this specific problem.

What I don't understand is why they take so long with everything these days?! It's 2023 and the system works like it's still 1993. My claim took 3 months to process and that was me calling EVERY DAY. They need to hire more people or update their antiquated systems.

Here's what actually WORKS for getting your backpay (I finally got mine after 3 months): First, document EVERYTHING. Print out all your weekly certifications. Second, you MUST talk to a real agent - not the automated system. The only way to resolve backpay is by speaking to someone who can manually review your account and submit the proper paperwork. Third, be persistent but polite. Explain you've been certifying since November and have received $0. Fourth, ask them specifically to check for "pending determinations" on your account. Often there's a single question or issue that's holding up the ENTIRE claim. Finally, if calling doesn't work, I had success using claimyr.com - they basically call for you and connect you when an agent picks up. Saved me hours of frustration and got my issue resolved in one call. Don't give up! The money is legally yours if you qualify!

Have you tried contacting your local state representative? I was stuck for 2 months, then I emailed my assembly member, and magically my claim started moving again. They have special contacts in the dept who can help.

the ny unemployment website is literal garbage fire 🔥 i had same issue and turns out they needed ONE document they never asked for. nobody told me until i got someone on the phone

Check your payment history on the website. If it shows payments were released but you didn't get them, it could be a banking issue. If it shows $0 then its a claim issue and you need to speak with someone.

My wife works for another state agency (not unemployment) and she says the best time to call is Tuesday-Thursday between 8:30-10am. Mondays are swamped with weekend backlog and Fridays everyone is trying to get stuff fixed before the weekend.

just letting you know i'm in the same boat 🚣‍♀️ filed in december, been certifying every week, not a single penny has hit my account. can't get anyone on the phone either

try sending a message through the contact form on the website, AND call, AND email the general inbox. my claim was stuck and i literally did all 3 things daily for a week until someone finally fixed it. squeaky wheel gets the grease

Here's a weird trick that worked for me: call exactly at 7:58am, two minutes before they officially open. Sometimes you get through to the queue before everyone else starts calling at 8:00am sharp.

Did you upload all your identity documents? Sometimes they silently put a hold on your claim if they need to verify your identity. Check if there's a message on your account about uploading ID docs.