NYDOL Unemployment Nightmare: Can't Reach Anyone to Finish Enrollment or Claim Benefits Since December
I filed for unemployment in NY on December 20th last year, even though I live in NJ, because that's where I worked. The online system told me I had to talk to a rep to finish enrolling and claim weekly benefits. I've been trying to get through for over a month with no luck. Now the system doesn't even have my initial enrollment on file! I had to start over, but I still can't get through to claim my benefits. I need help getting my benefits from the original filing date up to now. Any advice on how to actually reach someone at NYDOL?
27 comments
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Andre Rousseau
Ugh, the NYDOL system is such a nightmare! I've been in the same boat for weeks. Have you tried calling right when they open? I heard that's the best time to get through.
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Carmen Vega
Yeah, I've tried that. No luck. It's like they have 2 people answering phones for the whole state 🙄
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Zoe Stavros
Pro tip: call at 7:55 AM and keep redialing until 8:00 AM sharp. Sometimes you can sneak in before the rush.
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Jamal Harris
I've had better luck calling later in the day, like around 3:30 PM. Less competition maybe?
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GalaxyGlider
I found a way to actually get someone on the phone! I used this site called claimyr.com. It's a calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, and then connects you when a live agent picks up. It costs $20, but it worked for me. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE
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Mei Wong
Sounds too good to be true. Is this legit? Anyone else tried it?
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Liam Sullivan
Idk man, paying to get through to a government agency feels wrong. Shouldn't this be free?
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GalaxyGlider
I get the skepticism, but it seriously worked for me. After weeks of trying, I was desperate. Yeah, it sucks to pay, but it was worth it to finally get my benefits sorted.
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Amara Okafor
How long did you have to wait with this service?
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GalaxyGlider
It took about 2 hours total, but I didn't have to sit there listening to hold music. They called me when an agent was on the line.
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Giovanni Colombo
Have you tried reaching out to your local state representative? Sometimes they can help push things through when you're stuck in bureaucratic limbo.
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Fatima Al-Qasimi
Here's what worked for me: 1. Document everything. Keep a log of all your calls, emails, and attempts to contact NYDOL. 2. Write a clear, concise letter explaining your situation. Include dates, claim numbers, and any relevant info. 3. Send this letter via certified mail to NYDOL. 4. Simultaneously, email a copy to your state senator and assembly member. 5. Follow up with your representatives' offices by phone after a week. It took about 3 weeks, but I finally got a call back and my issue was resolved. Don't give up!
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Carmen Vega
Wow, thanks for the detailed advice! I'll definitely give this a try. Did you use any specific format for the letter?
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Fatima Al-Qasimi
I just kept it simple and professional. Bullet points help. Make sure to clearly state what you need them to do at the end.
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StarStrider
This is solid advice. I did something similar and it worked. The key is persistence and involving your reps!
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Dylan Campbell
lol welcome to the wonderful world of NYDOL where the rules are made up and your calls don't matter 🤡
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Sofia Torres
🤣🤣🤣 Ain't that the truth! It's like trying to win the lottery, but the prize is just talking to a human.
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Dmitry Sokolov
I swear they're all working from a beach somewhere, sipping margaritas while we suffer on hold 🍹🏖️
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Ava Martinez
Has anyone had luck with the online chat feature? I've been trying that instead of calling.
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Miguel Ramos
I tried it once. Waited 2 hours to connect, then got disconnected after 5 minutes. Never again. 🤦♂️
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QuantumQuasar
It worked for me! But I had to try at like 6 AM. Not ideal, but better than calling imho.
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Zainab Omar
Quick question - did you make sure to select 'New York' as your work state when filing? I almost messed that up since I also live in NJ but worked in NY.
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Carmen Vega
Yeah, I double-checked that. Thanks for looking out tho!
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Connor Gallagher
This whole system is broken af. We need to start a petition or something to get them to fix this mess. Who's with me? ✊
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Yara Sayegh
Count me in! This is ridiculous. People are struggling and can't even access the help they're entitled to.
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Keisha Johnson
Great idea! Maybe we could start a Change.org petition? I'd definitely share it.
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Paolo Longo
Have you checked if you qualify for any other types of assistance while you're waiting? Sometimes there are local programs or charities that can help bridge the gap.
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