NY unemployment recertification issues - can't figure out the process

I went through this exact same thing last month. The recertification process is a total nightmare. The error message kept popping up no matter what browser I used. Finally figured out you have to clear your cache and cookies before trying to submit. Also make sure you're not using any VPN. For some reason that trips up their system too.

After struggling with the same issue for weeks, I finally found a solution! Used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) and it was honestly a game changer. They setup a callback with a live agent from unemployment and I got my recertification sorted in 15 minutes. They connected me straight to an actual human who fixed everything. Talking to an agent got my payments flowing again immediately. Check out this video if you want to see how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE

The recertification error is happening to EVERYONE right now. Their system is completely broken. I talked to my cousin who works for the state (not unemployment) and she said they're dealing with a huge backlog. Keep trying different times of day. I finally got through at 8:01am exactly when they opened.

Make sure you're answering all the questions exactly right. If you make even a tiny mistake on the work search requirements section, it'll reject your whole certification. You need to list at least 3 job search activities each week. And double-check that you're using the correct week ending date when you certify.

YO THIS IS SO ANNOYING!!! been dealing with this for a MONTH!! they owe me almost $1800 now and i cant get thru to anyone!!!! the entire ny unemployment system is built to make us fail i swear 🤬

If nothing else works, try contacting your state representative's office. I was stuck in recertification hell for 6 weeks and getting desperate. Called my assembly member's office and their constituent services person made some calls. Had my issue fixed within 48 hours after that.

Here's a detailed breakdown of what you need to do to successfully recertify: First, timing matters. The system is least busy on Tuesdays and Wednesdays between 10am-2pm. Avoid Mondays at all costs. Second, if you're getting error messages, try using Microsoft Edge browser - for some reason the NY unemployment site works better with it than Chrome or Firefox. Third, double-check all your work search activities. You need exactly 3 per week, and they have to be from the approved categories. Common mistakes include not being specific enough about the employer contact info or forgetting to include the method of contact. If you still can't get through, I highly recommend using Claimyr.com to connect with an agent. It's the only reliable way to bypass the phone system nightmare. They basically wait on hold for you and then connect you directly to an agent when one becomes available. Lastly, document EVERYTHING. Take screenshots of errors, note dates/times of your attempts, and keep records of your work search activities. If your benefits get delayed, you'll need this documentation to get backpay. Hang in there - the system is frustrating by design, but persistence pays off.

have you checked that your benefit year hasnt ended? if its been 12 months since you first applied, you might need to file a new claim entirely, not just recertify.

Friendly reminder to everyone: When you do get through to someone at unemployment, be nice to them! They're dealing with thousands of angry people every day. I was super polite to the lady who helped me and she went above and beyond to fix several issues with my claim at once.

dont forget to check ur email spam folder. sometimes they send important notices there and if u miss them it can mess up ur certification. happened to me and i nearly lost my benefits cuz i missed a questionnaire they sent.

The entire ny unemployment system is stuck in the stone age. Its like they purposely designed the most confusing, glitchy website possible and then hired exactly 3 people to answer phones for the entire state. i feel your pain OP

Try logging in at exactly midnight on Sunday when the system resets for the week. That's when the servers are least crowded and you might be able to get your certification through without errors. Worked for me!

After trying for weeks I finally just broke down and found another job because dealing with unemployment was a second full-time job itself. The system is broken beyond repair at this point.