First time NY unemployment claim - filed 3 weeks ago with no payment yet. Is this normal?

Yes, this is unfortunately pretty normal for first-time filers right now. NYSDOL is experiencing delays with new claims. The monetary determination letter (showing your weekly benefit amount) is just the first step. They still need to verify your employment history and reason for separation before issuing a final determination. Three weeks is on the longer side but not unusual. Keep certifying weekly - once approved, you'll receive all back weeks you certified for.

my first payment took almost 5 weeks!! keep certifying and youll get backpay for all those weeks once they approve u. the system is soooo slow in 2025 its ridiculous

I'm in the EXACT same situation!!! Filed on Feb 10, got the monetary letter showing $513 weekly but NOTHING ELSE! No payments, no updates, NOTHING! I've been certifying every single week too. This is SO FRUSTRATING!!! How are we supposed to pay bills while they take their sweet time?? I tried calling their number 37 TIMES yesterday and couldn't get through to anyone!!!!

While waiting is normal, three weeks is getting to the point where you might want to try contacting them directly. A few things to consider: 1. Check your spam/junk folder for any emails from NYSDOL 2. Verify your direct deposit/payment method is set up correctly 3. Make sure there are no identity verification issues pending The ID.me process is separate from NYSDOL's own verification, so sometimes there are additional steps needed. When you log in, check for any action items or messages in your account dashboard.

Im on my 4th claim since 2023 and even for me the first payment always takes at least 2-3 weeks. Keep certifying and be patient.

After dealing with this exact situation last month, I finally got through to an actual agent by using Claimyr. It's this service that gets you through the phone system and holds your place in line. I was at my wit's end after 4 weeks of waiting. The agent was able to tell me there was a small issue with my employment verification that needed manual review. Fixed it in 10 minutes and my payments started 2 days later. You can see how it works at claimyr.com or check their demo at https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE - honestly saved me from missing my rent payment.

just FYI my neighbor filed in january and they randomly asked for more verification docs after 3 weeks. check ur messages section everyday!!

One other thing to check - make sure you answered all questions correctly during your weekly certification. If you accidentally indicate you weren't available for work or refused a job offer, it can delay things. Also, some employers contest unemployment claims, which can add weeks to the process while they investigate.

My sister works for the state (not unemployment but another agency) and she says they're super understaffed right now. That's why everything takes forever.

Update: I finally got through to someone this morning! There was apparently an issue with my employment verification that needed manual review. The agent cleared it up and said I should receive all my back payments within 3-5 business days. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!