How long until NY unemployment KeyBank card arrives and will released payments automatically transfer?
I just got approved for NY unemployment and chose the debit card payment option. Does anyone know how long it takes for the KeyBank card to arrive in the mail? My account shows that I have 2 payments that have been released already, but I haven't received the card yet. Will those payments automatically go onto the card when it arrives or do I need to call someone to make sure I get that money? This is my first time on unemployment and I'm really confused about how this all works. Thanks!
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Lola Perez
The KeyBank debit card usually takes 7-10 business days to arrive after you first select that payment method. And yes, any payments that were released before you received the card will automatically be loaded onto it when it arrives - you don't need to do anything extra. Just keep certifying weekly while you wait for the card.
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Ethan Scott
•Thank you! That's a relief. I was worried those payments might be lost or something. I'll keep an eye out for the card in the mail.
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Nathaniel Stewart
mine took almost 3 weeks to come and i was freaking out!! but the $ was all there when it finally showed up. just make sure ur mailing address is correct on ur account
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Ethan Scott
•3 weeks?! Ugh, I hope mine doesn't take that long. My rent is due soon and I was counting on this money. I double-checked my address and it's correct.
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Nathaniel Stewart
•ya it sucked waiting but once u have it its easy to use. u can even set up direct deposit from the card to ur bank if u want
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Riya Sharma
I HATE the KeyBank cards. They take forever to arrive and then they charge fees for almost everything. You'd be better off switching to direct deposit as soon as you can. But yeah, your money will be there whenever the card finally shows up.
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Santiago Diaz
•KeyBank doesn't actually charge fees for most basic transactions. ATM withdrawals at KeyBank and Allpoint ATMs are free, balance inquiries are free, and there are no monthly maintenance fees. They do charge for out-of-network ATM use and some other services, but for most people, it can be used without fees. That said, direct deposit is usually more convenient if you have a bank account.
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Millie Long
My KeyBank card took exactly 8 business days to arrive in March 2025. The NY DOL website says 7-10 business days is standard. If it's been longer than that, you should definitely call them. One thing to remember is that once you activate the card, you have to create a PIN before you can use it at ATMs or for purchases. All my back payments were on there when it arrived.
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Ethan Scott
•It's only been 4 business days since I was approved, so I guess I need to be more patient. Thanks for sharing your experience!
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KaiEsmeralda
I never got mine after waiting 3 weeks! Had to call for a replacement and that took another 2 weeks. Complete nightmare trying to get through to someone at KeyBank too.
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Debra Bai
•I had the same issue trying to reach KeyBank AND the unemployment office. After spending days trying to get through, I found this service called Claimyr that got me connected to an actual NYSDOL agent in about 20 minutes instead of waiting for hours or getting disconnected. They have this system that basically holds your place in line. Saved me so much frustration when my card never showed up. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE if you're interested. Their website is claimyr.com
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Riya Sharma
btw did anyone else notice they've been super slow processing claims this month? i heard they have a new system and its all messed up. my friend applied 6 weeks ago and still hasn't got any decision yet.
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Santiago Diaz
•This is off-topic from the original question about KeyBank cards. If your friend is having issues with their claim being processed, they should start a new thread with those specific details so people can help them better.
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Lola Perez
One more tip: when your card does arrive, immediately set up the KeyBank online access for it. That way you can track your balance, set up alerts, and even transfer money to your regular bank account if you want. Much easier than calling their customer service line.
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Ethan Scott
•That's really helpful advice, thanks! I'll definitely set up the online access as soon as I get the card. Do you know if there's a fee to transfer money from the KeyBank card to my regular checking account?
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Lola Perez
•There's no fee to transfer from the KeyBank card to your personal bank account through the online portal. I used to do it regularly when I was on unemployment in 2024. Just note that the transfer typically takes 2-3 business days to complete.
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Nathaniel Stewart
i remember when i first got unemployment in 2022 they were still sending paper checks lol. the keybank card is way better than that mess!
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Ethan Scott
•I actually would've preferred a paper check! At least I'd know exactly when it was coming in the mail. Oh well, I'll just have to be patient with this card system.
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