NY unemployment application showing zeros after two weeks - can't get through on phone

This is actually pretty common right now. The NY unemployment system is overwhelmed with applications in 2025 since the economic slowdown. The zeros typically mean your claim is still in the pending verification stage. It usually takes 2-3 weeks to process, but can take up to 5-6 weeks during busy periods. Keep certifying weekly despite seeing zeros - once approved, you'll receive backpay for all properly certified weeks.

mine was like that for THREE WEEKS and then suddenly updated with my benefit amount. just keep trying to call them everyday!!!

I had same issue in January. The zeros mean they haven't processed your application yet. Nothing you can do but wait. The system is TRASH this year especially with all the layoffs happening. The phone system is a joke - I called 47 times in one day and never got through.

The zeros are definitely frustrating but completely normal during the initial processing period. Two important things to remember: 1. Continue certifying weekly even with zeros showing 2. Make sure you uploaded all required documentation (ID verification, employment history, etc.) If it's been more than 3 weeks with no update, there might be an identity verification or former employer issue that needs resolving. That's when reaching a rep becomes critical. I was in the same boat trying to call constantly. I finally managed to get through using Claimyr (claimyr.com). They hold your place in the queue and call you when a rep is available. Saved me from constantly redialing for days. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE

Maybe ur missing something on ur application? When I applied they needed additional info but never told me, just got stuck in pending. Check ur inbox on the portal sometimes they send messages there instead of email.

The initial zeros display is part of normal processing. However, if you want to be proactive while waiting, here are some specific things to check: 1. Verify your identity documents were properly uploaded in the system - blurry images can cause delays 2. Ensure your employment history is complete for the base period (first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters) 3. Double-check if any former employers have contested your claim 4. Look for any correspondence in your online message center AND check your physical mail 5. Confirm your banking information is entered correctly for direct deposit Regarding the phone issues - NYSDOL's phone system automatically disconnects when queue capacity is reached. Try calling at exactly 8:00 AM when they open or around 3:30 PM when call volume sometimes decreases.

i had this EXACT problem in early february!! it turned out that there was a discrepancy between what I reported as my last day worked and what my employer reported. i FINALLY reached someone after trying that claimyr service someone mentioned earlier and they fixed it in like 5 minutes. my account updated overnight and i got backpay the next day. definitely worth paying to get through rather than waiting forever.

Also make sure ur still certifying EVERY WEEK even with the zeros showing. i almost missed a week cuz i thought 'whats the point' but then woulda lost that money!

Just to update you on the most recent NYSDOL processes - as of March 2025, they implemented a new verification system that sometimes causes this exact issue. If your claim has certain verification flags (which they don't disclose to applicants), it gets held in a special queue. Unfortunately, the only way to resolve it is by speaking with a claims specialist, not just any representative. When you do get through, specifically ask for a "claim processing specialist" rather than just explaining your issue to the first person who answers.

BTW the website is also useless between 12-5am cause thats when they do updates. learned this the hard way lol

Good news - I just checked the NYSDOL Twitter account and they announced they're adding extra staff to process claims through April. Hopefully this means your claim will move faster. Just hang in there!

UPDATE: I finally got through to a representative! Used the Claimyr service that was suggested here and got a callback in about 40 minutes. The rep said there was an issue with my identity verification (apparently my driver's license scan was too blurry) and they needed additional documentation. She helped me upload it right on the call. She said my claim should update within 2-3 business days and I'll receive backpay for all the weeks I've certified. Such a relief to finally get answers! Thanks everyone for your help.