NY unemployment phone lines impossible - 2 weeks trying to reach an agent

same here, on week 3 of trying. its ridiculous they expect us to just sit around all day hitting redial!!! i heard mornings are better but i've called at 7:58am exactly when they open and still nothing. system is designed to make ppl give up imo

I've had success reaching them by calling exactly at 8:00 am, but you need to use the claims specialty line (888-209-8124) and immediately press 1, then 3, then 2 when the automated system starts. This bypasses some of the queue. Also, Thursdays seem to have lower call volume in my experience.

try calling the albany office direct, worked for me last week when main line was usless. cant remember the # tho sorry

After weeks of trying the regular channels with no luck, I finally used Claimyr to get through to a NYSDOL agent in under 30 minutes. I was skeptical at first, but they basically call and wait on hold for you, then connect you when they reach an agent. Saved me days of frustration. You can see how it works at https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE - their website is claimyr.com if you're desperate like I was.

The trick is to keep calling nonstop. I literally called 47 times in one day before getting through. The system is DESIGNED to wear you down so you'll give up. DON'T GIVE UP! Your benefits are YOUR MONEY that YOU EARNED!!

I remember when I was claiming unemployment last year I had a similar issue trying to reach someone. Have you tried the callback option on their website? You fill out a form and they're supposed to call you back, though it can take a few days. It worked for me when I needed to verify my identity for my claim.

Just a heads-up based on my experience - when you finally do get through, make sure you have all your information ready: 1. Your NY.gov ID and password 2. Social security number 3. All employer information for the last 18 months 4. Any claim determination numbers or messages you've received 5. Your bank information if you need to update payment details The agents are usually helpful once you reach them, but you don't want to waste the opportunity by not being prepared.

anybody else notice they ALWAYS disconnect you after exactly 30 mins of hold time?? its like they designed it to be just long enough that you've wasted your time but not actually get help

I just checked and yes, Claimyr still works with NY unemployment as of 2025. After you get through to an agent, make sure to ask them to note your account with whatever issue you're having resolved, and get the agent's ID number if possible. This creates a record in case you need to reference the conversation later.

update?? did u get thru??