NY unemployment website keeps blocking my new claim application with error messages

That exact same thing happened to me last week! The website kept timing out right at the final submission page. So frustrating! After trying for THREE DAYS, I finally got through by using the Claimyr service (claimyr.com). They helped me get connected to an actual person at NYSDOL within 45 minutes instead of spending days trying to get through. You can see how it works in their video: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE - totally worth it when the online system is being so glitchy. The agent was able to file my claim over the phone and override whatever was causing the website errors.

ya this happens ALL THE TIME with the ny site lol. try using chrome with incognito mode worked for me but u gotta do it early in the morning like 6am when less ppl r on

There's actually a system-wide update going on with the NY unemployment portal right now that's causing these issues. According to the NYSDOL Twitter account, they're implementing upgrades to handle the increased volume of claims following the recent tech industry layoffs. The maintenance was scheduled to be completed by March 15, 2025, but it seems they're running behind. In the meantime, here are some troubleshooting steps that have worked for others: 1. Try accessing the site between 7pm-7am when traffic is lower 2. Clear your browser cache completely (not just cookies) 3. Disable any ad blockers or security extensions 4. Use Microsoft Edge browser specifically (many report better success) 5. If your application times out, wait 24 hours before trying again (repeated failed attempts can trigger a temporary IP block) If all else fails, you can also file by phone, though wait times are currently 2+ hours. Call 1-888-209-8124 during business hours (M-F, 8am-6pm).

Same issue here last month. The error message is totally unhelpful too - just says "system unable to process request" without any actual explanation. I got so mad I threw my laptop on the couch (not my proudest moment lol). Anyway I ended up having to call them.

The NYSDOL online system has been plagued with technical issues since the January 2025 "upgrade." I've been helping several clients navigate this and found that there are specific times when the application is more likely to go through: - Tuesdays and Thursdays seem to have fewer issues - Early morning (5:30-7:00am) has significantly higher success rates - Late night (after 11pm) also works better Also, if you're getting stuck at a specific part of the application, try writing down all your information first. Some users report that the system times out if you spend too long on any single page. For the error message when contacting them, try using the "Technical Support" option instead of "Unemployment Insurance" when navigating the contact form. For some reason, those messages are going through while the UI ones are failing. If nothing works, calling is unfortunately your best option. Prepare to wait 2-3 hours, but have all your information ready when you finally connect with someone.

I work with an employment advocacy group, and we've been hearing about these issues constantly since the system update in January. Here's what's actually happening: The NYSDOL implemented new fraud detection algorithms that are incorrectly flagging legitimate applications. Applications get stuck in a verification loop that the online system can't resolve. The frustrating part is that phone representatives CAN override these flags, but only if you can reach them. Based on our tracking, about 32% of new applications are experiencing these issues. It's not your fault or anything you're doing wrong. If you've tried multiple times online without success, you need to speak with a representative. Unfortunately, phone wait times are averaging 2-4 hours right now. If you can't stay on hold that long, try calling exactly at 8:00 AM when they open, or try 30 minutes before closing time when call volume sometimes decreases. The NYSDOL is aware of the issue but their official position is that the system is "functioning as intended with occasional delays." We're pushing them to acknowledge and fix the problems.

anybody tried filling out the application on their phone instead of computer? my friend said it worked for him when his laptop kept giving errors

I see these posts EVERY WEEK now! The NY unemployment system is a disaster. I spent 3 weeks trying to file a claim online before giving up and calling. Then spent 2 days trying to get through on the phone. Finally got my claim filed last week. System said it would take 3-5 business days to process but nothing's happened yet. Now I'm worried I'll have to start all over again! This is so stressful when you're already dealing with losing your job. Why can't they make a system that actually WORKS??

Has anyone had any success with the mobile app? I heard they released a new NY unemployment app in February but haven't tried it myself.

UPDATE: I finally got through! For anyone else struggling with this, here's what worked: I used the Chrome incognito mode suggestion at 6:30am, but the key thing was using my phone's cellular data instead of my home wifi. Somehow that combination let me complete the entire application without any errors. Now I'm just hoping it actually processes correctly. Thank you everyone for your help and suggestions! This community is amazing.