Got an email from NY unemployment but still can't reach anyone to finish my claim

Welcome to the NY unemployment system, where nobody answers and everybody suffers! I was in the exact same boat for almost 5 weeks. Tried calling everyday, dialing over and over like a maniac. The system is completely broken.

After two months of trying to reach someone, I finally found a solution that worked! I used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that calls for you and then connects you with an agent when they pick up. Talking to an agent got my $ unlocked so fast, and I finally got paid after months of waiting. They also have a helpful video explaining how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE

Have you tried calling EXACTLY at 8:00am when they open? I had success getting through by calling at 7:59 and hitting redial until I got in the queue. Still had to wait on hold for 1.5 hrs but at least got through.

Im in the same boat as u. Been trying for 5 weeks to talk to a human. My claim has been pending forever and no one can tell me why. This system is BROKEN beyond belief. Want to scream everytime I call that stupid number and hear the recording.

I had the same problem for weeks, literally wanted to throw my phone after hearing that same automated message for the 100th time. What finally worked for me was getting in touch with my state rep's office. They have connections at NYSDOL and can escalate your case. Got a call back within 3 days after suffering for 6 weeks.

Here's a comprehensive guide to reaching NY unemployment based on my experience and months of suffering: First, timing matters enormously. The best time to call is between 7:55-8:05am or 4:30-5:00pm. Their system gets overloaded mid-day. Second, try different numbers. The main number is always jammed, but sometimes the employer line or pandemic assistance line can connect you to general help. Third, use the right keywords with the automated system. If you say "payment" instead of "claim status" you often get routed differently. Fourth, contact your local Assembly member or State Senator. Many have dedicated staff for unemployment issues who can escalate your case. Fifth, if all else fails, services like claimyr.com can wait on hold for you and connect you directly to an agent when one is available. This saved me after 2 months of getting nowhere. Don't give up - the system is designed to be frustrating but persistence eventually pays off!

Try reaching out on Twitter. Sometimes they respond to DMs there much faster than phone or email.

Pro tip: if u keep getting the busy signal, try calling from a different phone number. My cell always got rejected but when I used my roommates phone I got through on the 3rd try! Weird system glitch 🤷‍♀️

dont bother with calling. try the messege feature in ur account, theres an option for "i need to speak to a rep" and they usually call back within 5 days. not great but better than nothing

The system is total garbage. Spent 4 hours yesterday on hold just to get disconnected. This morning tried again and got through after 3.5 hours only to be told I was transferred to the wrong department and put on hold again...then disconnected. NY unemployment is truly a special kind of hell.

I found a weird hack that worked for me. Instead of selecting the options for claim issues, I selected the option for tax documents. Got through to someone in 20 minutes who then transferred me to the right department. Worth a shot.

Check if your email has any specific instructions or a direct number to call. Sometimes they send emails with special access codes or appointment times but they're easy to miss if the email looks generic.

After spending literally DAYS trying to reach ny unemployment with no luck, I finally broke down and tried Claimyr. They got me connected to a live agent in about 2 hours. The agent fixed my claim on the spot and my backpay was in my account 3 days later. claimyr.com saved my sanity.

Honestly the only thing that worked for me was getting help from my state assembly person. Google your district and call their office - they have special contacts at unemployment who can push your claim through.