How long does NYS Department of Labor unemployment claim take to process - filed 2 weeks ago
I submitted my initial unemployment claim through the NYS Department of Labor website 2 weeks ago and I'm still seeing 'pending' status when I log into my account. I've been filing my weekly claims but haven't received any payments yet. Is this normal? I'm starting to get worried because I have rent due next week and I'm not sure what to expect for timing. My friend said hers was approved in like 5 days but maybe that was before everything got backed up? Anyone know how long the process usually takes right now?
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KingKongZilla
Processing times vary but typically take 2-4 weeks for initial claims. The NYS Department of Labor has to verify your employment history and wages with your former employer(s). If there are no issues with your claim, you should hear back within 3 weeks. Keep filing your weekly claims even while pending - you'll get back pay if approved.
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Bethany Groves
•Thank you! That's actually reassuring. I was starting to think something was wrong with my application.
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Rebecca Johnston
mine took almost 6 weeks last year and that was with no complications. the nys department of labor is just really slow
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Bethany Groves
•Oh no 6 weeks?? I can't wait that long for money. Did you end up calling them or anything?
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Nathan Dell
The 2-4 week timeframe is accurate for straightforward claims. However, if your claim goes into adjudication (additional review), it can take much longer. Common reasons for adjudication include: leaving your job voluntarily, being fired for misconduct, or having wage discrepancies. Check your online account regularly for any requests for additional information.
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Bethany Groves
•I was laid off due to company downsizing so hopefully that's straightforward enough. Nothing in my account asking for more info yet.
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Maya Jackson
I've been trying to get through to someone at NYS Department of Labor for weeks about my claim status but the phone lines are always busy. Getting really frustrated with the lack of communication. Has anyone found a way to actually talk to a person there?
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Tristan Carpenter
•I had the same problem with getting through on the phone. I ended up using Claimyr (claimyr.com) which helped me connect with an actual NYS Department of Labor agent. They have this video demo (https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI) that shows how it works. Basically they handle the calling and waiting for you. I was able to get my claim status cleared up within a few days after waiting weeks trying to call myself.
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Maya Jackson
•Interesting, never heard of that service before. Might be worth looking into since I'm getting nowhere with the regular phone number.
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Amaya Watson
Just wanted to say keep your chin up! I know the waiting is stressful but most claims do get approved eventually. Make sure you're keeping track of all your job search activities too since you'll need to show you're actively looking for work.
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