NYDOL unemployment claim stuck for 1+ month, out-of-state employer not responding. Help!
Hey everyone, I'm in a bit of a pickle with my unemployment benefits. I applied over a month ago and still haven't been approved. My former employer was from out of state, and I think there might be some issues with how they reported things. I've submitted all the paperwork, including my W2, to prove I qualify. The unemployment office said they were waiting to talk to my ex-employer, but I can't get anyone on the phone for an update. I've tried emailing my former boss, but no luck. I'm going back to school now and have some continuing education stuff for my profession, which should qualify me under state rules. This is really affecting my life, and I'm not sure what else I can do. Any advice?
22 comments
Tom Maxon
I found a way to solve unemployment claim delay issues, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooyKdNzLYC0
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Mateusius Townsend
Ugh, I feel ya. The unemployment system is such a mess rn. Have you tried faxing in your paperwork? Sometimes that works better than email or online submissions.
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Demi Hall
Yeah, I actually did fax everything in and got a confirmation. Still radio silence tho 😩
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Kara Yoshida
Faxing? What year is it, 1995? 🤣 But for real, if it works, it works I guess
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Mateusius Townsend
lol I know right? But I swear, sometimes the old school methods are the only ones that get through to these dinosaurs 🦕
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Philip Cowan
I had a similar issue with an out-of-state employer. It took FOREVER, but I finally got approved after 3 months. Keep pushing and don't give up!
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Caesar Grant
Have you tried reaching out to your local state representative? Sometimes they can help push things along with unemployment offices.
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Demi Hall
That's a great idea, I hadn't thought of that. Do you know how I would go about contacting them?
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Caesar Grant
Just google your address + 'state representative'. Most have contact forms on their websites. Explain your situation and they might be able to help!
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Lena Schultz
OK, so here's what you need to do: 1. Document everything. Keep a log of all your calls, emails, and faxes. 2. Call the unemployment office daily. Yes, it sucks, but persistence pays off. 3. If your ex-employer isn't responding, inform the unemployment office. They may be able to make a determination without the employer's input after a certain period. 4. Look into your state's unemployment appeal process. You might need to file an appeal to get things moving. 5. Consider reaching out to a local legal aid organization. They often have experience with unemployment issues and might be able to advise you for free. 6. As someone else mentioned, contacting your state rep is a good idea. 7. If you're really desperate, some people have had luck reaching out to local news stations. Bad publicity can sometimes light a fire under government agencies. Hang in there, OP. The system is frustrating, but don't give up!
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Demi Hall
Wow, thank you so much for this detailed response! I'll definitely start working through this list. Really appreciate it 🙏
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Gemma Andrews
This is solid advice. I'd add: check if your state has an unemployment ombudsman. They can sometimes help resolve issues faster.
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Pedro Sawyer
man, the whole system is rigged against us. they make it so hard on purpose so people just give up. don't let em win, keep fighting!
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Mae Bennett
Preach! 🙌 It's like they forget unemployment insurance is something we pay into. It's OUR money!
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Beatrice Marshall
Hey, 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 through the phone menu, stays on hold, and then connects you when a real person picks up. It costs $20, but it worked for me. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE
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Melina Haruko
Sounds too good to be true. Is this legit?
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Beatrice Marshall
I was skeptical too, but I tried it and it actually worked. Saved me hours of hold time.
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Dallas Villalobos
20 bucks tho? That's kinda steep when ur already hurting for cash 😬
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Beatrice Marshall
I get that, but for me it was worth it to finally get some answers. Beats sitting on hold all day or taking time off work to call.
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Reina Salazar
have u checked ur online account? sometimes they update stuff there without notifying u
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Saanvi Krishnaswami
This might sound weird, but try calling right when they open or like 5 minutes before they close. Sometimes you can catch someone that way.
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Demi Lagos
Can confirm this works! Got through last week by calling 2 mins before closing time.
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