NY unemployment making me verify ID 1 week before benefits end - self-employed nightmare

same thing happened to me last month. it's just random security checks they do. don't worry about it, just do the id verify and you'll be fine

But why NOW? That's what makes no sense to me. They couldn't have done this months ago instead of waiting until the very end?

This is actually part of a new 2025 protocol NYSDOL implemented to reduce fraud. They're doing random verification checks at various points in claim periods, including end periods. It's frustrating timing, but completing the verification now ensures you'll receive your final payment without issues and maintains your eligibility should you need to reapply in the future. Make sure you complete it within 48 hours to avoid payment delays.

Thank you for explaining. Still annoying but at least there's a reason. Do you know if this will affect my last payment at all? Will it be delayed?

As long as you complete the verification promptly, your final payment should process normally. There might be a short 24-48 hour processing delay, but nothing substantial. The system is mainly checking that you're the same person who's been receiving benefits all along, not reassessing your eligibility criteria.

I had this happen and couldn't get through to anyone. I was panicking because my verification kept getting rejected for no reason! I finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get a callback from an actual agent within 30 minutes. They fixed it immediately - might be worth the money if you run into verification problems. They have a demo video here: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE showing how it works. Saved me from missing my last payment!

its because they WANT people to miss that last payment!!!! think about it - how many people are gonna give up or forget to do the ID verify when they know benefits are ending anyway?? DOL keeps all that $$$. classic NYS unemployment games 😠

yep this 100%. my cousin works for the state (not DOL but still) and says end-of-claim verifications save them millions because people don't bother. system is rigged against us

This is incorrect information. NYSDOL doesn't

OK SURE whatever you say 🙄 just a COINCIDENCE they do this right when benefits end for tons of people. I know 3 ppl personally who missed final payments bc of this!!

I'm going through this exact same thing! Self-employed, been on UI since February, and got the verification notice yesterday. My benefits end next week too. It's so annoying having to scramble to find all the documents again. Did yours say you need to upload both ID and proof of address? Mine's asking for utility bills but all mine are paperless...

Yes! They want ID plus proof of address. I used a screenshot of my online electric bill and they accepted it. Just make sure your name and address are visible in the screenshot!

When I had to verify, I had trouble with their system accepting my documents. Called the helpline for 3 days with no luck. Finally used Claimyr and got through to someone who fixed it in minutes. Might be worth keeping as a backup if you run into issues with the verification.

how much did that cost? seems sketchy to pay just to talk to unemployment

It's not sketchy - they just hold your place in line so you don't have to keep calling back. Totally worth it when you're desperate and can't get through. Their site explains everything: claimyr.com

This ID verification is part of NYSDOL's fraud prevention measures. While the timing seems poor, it's actually systematic - some claimants are selected at the beginning, middle, or end of their benefit period. For self-employed individuals, there's been an increase in verification requests near benefit end dates due to higher fraud rates in this category historically. \n\nTo ensure no payment delays:\n1. Submit clear photos of your ID (both sides)\n2. Provide a document showing your current address\n3. If using the NY.gov ID verification system, follow all prompts exactly\n4. Complete all steps within 48 hours of receiving the notice\n\nIf your verification gets stuck in the system, call 888-209-8124 as soon as possible to have an agent manually review it.

Thank you for the detailed info. I just completed everything this morning, so hopefully, it goes through without issues. This has been super helpful!

ugh ny unemployment is the worst! they made me do this twice during my claim period for some reason

my verification got approved in like 2 hours, its not that bad

Lucky you! Mine's been

If it's been pending for more than 48 hours, you should contact them directly. Sometimes verification requests get stuck in the system and need manual intervention. Don't wait until the last minute before your benefits end.

THEY DID THIS TO ME TOO!! And then when I finally got verified my last payment was

Update: My verification was approved! The whole process took about 24 hours. Thanks everyone for the help and advice. For anyone else dealing with this, just submit the documents ASAP and you should be fine.

Did you get your final payment on time or was there a delay?

It was delayed by 2 days, but it did come through!