NY unemployment 599 program backlogged to April 2025 - anyone else stuck waiting?

Unfortunately, this is accurate. The 599 Training Program is severely backlogged right now due to the recent system upgrade combined with staffing shortages. I applied in January and just got approved last week (late May). The backlog seems to change based on your region though - some DOL offices are processing faster than others. Which region did you apply in?

I'm in the Buffalo region. Did you do anything special to get yours processed? 4 months is just too long to wait when I need to get retrained for a new career ASAP.

yep same boat, applied in feb still nothing. they dont even respond to messages on the portal anyone

Have you tried calling them? I can never get through to an actual person.

The 599 Program backlog is a real issue right now. Here's what you should know:\n\n1. The 599 Program allows you to receive UI benefits while in approved training without having to look for work\n2. Recent system changes have created a significant backlog\n3. You CAN start your training before approval, but you'll still need to certify that you're looking for work until your 599 application is approved\n4. Once approved, it's retroactive to your application date\n\nMy suggestion: Start your training now if possible, continue job searching requirements until approved, and make sure all your 599 paperwork is complete and accurate to avoid further delays.

Thanks for the detailed info. So I can actually start classes while waiting for approval? That's helpful to know! Do you have any tips for getting through to an actual person at NYSDOL? I have questions about my specific situation.

I heard they prioritize applications based on start dates of your training program. If your program starts soon, they might expedite. At least that's what someone at the career center told me last week.

This isn't entirely accurate. While they do consider training start dates, they're primarily processing in the order received. What they might do is conditionally approve someone whose training starts before their application would normally be processed, but you still need to submit well in advance.

I've been dealing with the 599 program since February and its a NIGHTMARE!!! Nobody answers calls, emails disappear into the void, and the online system is useless. I ended up having to start my program while still waiting for approval because I couldn't delay any longer. Been doing job search AND school which is EXHAUSTING. The whole system is broken!!!!

yeah same i just gave up and got a crappy job instead. not worth the hassle

After weeks of trying to reach someone about my 599 application, I finally got through using Claimyr (claimyr.com). They connected me to an actual NYSDOL agent in about 25 minutes when I'd been trying for weeks with no luck. The agent was able to check my 599 status and tell me exactly what was missing from my application. Totally worth it for me - you can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE

I've never heard of this service before. They can actually get you through to unemployment? I might try this because I'm desperate to get some answers about my application.

is this legit? seems sketchy to me

@profile7 It's completely legitimate. They use a call technology that waits on hold for you and then calls you back when they reach a representative. I was skeptical too but it worked exactly as advertised.

Just checked them out, gonna try it tomorrow morning. Thanks for the tip!

Don't get me started on the 599 program. Applied in December 2024 and didn't get approved until late April 2025. The REAL problem is that even after approval, it took them 3 more weeks to actually update my account status in the system! I had to keep doing work search activities for WEEKS after being

This is an important point. Even after 599 approval, continue your work search activities until you see your UI Online account status actually change to \

UPDATE: I used that Claimyr service today and actually got through to someone at NYSDOL! The agent told me they could expedite my application because my training program starts in 3 weeks. They said I was missing a form from my school that needs to be submitted. Going to get that fixed tomorrow. Thanks everyone for the advice!

That's great news! The missing form is likely the TAA/599 Training Certification form that needs to be completed by your educational institution. Make sure they include the exact program dates and curriculum details. Good luck!

Lucky you!! I'm STILL waiting after 3 months...