Last week of NY unemployment benefits - want to thank this group for all the help

Thanks! I've already had two interviews this week so fingers crossed something comes through. Honestly couldn't have navigated the NY unemployment system without all the advice here.

100% agree with this!! this group saved me when my claim got stuck in pending for like 3 weeks and i had NO IDEA what to do. still remember when someone told me exactly what to say to the agent and it got fixed same day!

If your account was flagged for inconsistent work search, they're likely looking for more variety in your activities. Try mixing in some networking events, job fairs, or skills workshops in addition to applications. The system wants to see different types of job search efforts, not just applications. And make sure you're documenting everything thoroughly!

After struggling with the same issue for weeks, I finally found a service called Claimyr that got me through to an actual NYSDOL agent in less than 15 minutes. I was skeptical at first, but it actually worked! They basically call and wait on hold for you, then connect you when an agent picks up. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE Once I got through to a rep, they fixed my certification issue in about 5 minutes. It was something about my work history dates not matching up, which is why the system kept rejecting my weekly certification.

Thanks! Sorry your old job offered less pay - that's frustrating. I'm hoping to find something new rather than going back to my old industry. The stress of being on unemployment definitely motivated me to expand my job search!

This is super helpful, thank you! I didn't know about the 599 Training Program - might look into that since I've been considering taking some certification courses.

wait whats extended benefits??? my regular benefits end next month and ive only had 2 interviews 😰 how do i know if i qualify??

Extended Benefits (EB) in New York can become available during periods of high unemployment. To qualify, you must have exhausted regular UI benefits and continue to meet all eligibility requirements. Currently, the trigger for EB is not activated, but you should check the NYSDOL website regularly as this can change. There's also the 599 Training Program which can provide benefits while you gain new skills. You'd need to apply for this program specifically through NYSDOL.

Double-check your payment history in your online account to confirm if you were actually shorted. Sometimes what looks like a shorted payment is actually related to tax withholding or partial week calculations. If you're still seeing a discrepancy, document everything and keep calling - preferably right when they open at 8am.

That's a great tip about the calendar reminders! I did that too and it helped so much. And yes, the website is definitely more stable now compared to what friends told me about their experiences during 2023.

I was in marketing for a tech company. Looking at both in-house and agency roles now, but also considering a pivot to project management since I have some experience with that. Definitely tough to find comparable pay in this market!

i was admin assistant at a law firm, applied to like 50+ places! had 2 interviews but they were offering way less than i was making before :

While NYSDOL does have strict verification procedures, a simple date error shouldn't result in a fraud determination. Your friend should file an appeal immediately and provide documentation showing it was an honest mistake. The hearing process allows for correcting unintentional errors. Appeals must be filed within 30 days of the determination notice, so time is critical.