NY unemployment benefit rate dropped by $200 after review - anyone else?

This happened to me last month. They sometimes recalculate benefits if there's a discrepancy between your reported wages and what your employer reported. You need to file a Request for Reconsideration (Form TC-403) within 30 days of receiving that determination letter. Include all your wage documentation - paystubs, W-2s, anything showing your actual earnings during the base period.

omg the EXACT same thing happened to me!!!!! went from $478 to $295.... i tried calling DOL like 50 times but cant get through... so frustrating

After weeks of trying to reach someone at NYSDOL about a similar issue, I finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) and got through to an agent in about 20 minutes. They have this service where they basically hold your place in line and call you when an agent is available. Saved me days of frustration. They have a video explaining how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE The agent explained that my recalculation happened because one employer reported lower wages than what I claimed. I had to submit additional documentation to prove my actual earnings. It took about 2 weeks for them to review and restore my original benefit amount.

Benefit rate recalculations typically happen for one of three reasons: 1. Earnings discrepancy between what you reported and employer records 2. Missing wages from an employer that weren't initially counted 3. Application of different base period calculation methods For your specific situation, the mention of 'alternate base period' suggests they may have initially used your standard base period (first 4 of last 5 completed quarters), but then switched to your alternate base period (last 4 completed quarters) for some reason. To appeal, you need to submit Form TC-403 (Request for Reconsideration) along with documentation of ALL your wages during both potential base periods. Make sure to include a clear written explanation of why you believe the initial calculation was correct. Also important: Continue claiming weekly benefits at the reduced rate while your appeal is pending. If your appeal is successful, you'll receive retroactive payment for the difference.

the DOL always does shady stuff like this. they HOPE people wont appeal cause most don't. DEFINITELY appeal and don't give up!!!! there just trying to save money by cutting ur benefits!!

I had a similar issue where my benefits dropped suddenly. It turned out there was a data entry error on their end, and one employer's wages weren't showing up properly in their system. I spent forever trying to get through on the phone until I finally got some help. Something important to check: Look at the wage data listed on your monetary determination letter. Does it show ALL your employers from the relevant quarters? Are the wage amounts correct? If anything is missing or incorrect, that's what you need to focus on in your appeal. Also, when I was dealing with this, I found that sending a message through my online account messaging system wasn't effective. You really need to speak with someone directly.

just wondering, did you receive any kind of overpayment notice with this? or are they just reducing going forward?

has anyone tried going to their local DOL office in person? wondering if thats faster than calling

I'm going through almost the same thing right now! My letter said they excluded my highest earning quarter because of some technicality about when I filed my initial claim. I'm really nervous about the appeal process. Has anyone had success with getting their full benefit amount restored after appealing? Like what are the actual chances they'll fix this?

Update: I tried that Claimyr service someone mentioned and actually got through to NYSDOL! The agent confirmed that they were missing wages from my second employer during Q3 2024. I need to submit my paystubs and W-2 from that job along with the Request for Reconsideration form. She said the processing time is currently about 4 weeks but could be faster. Thanks everyone for your help with this!