NYDOL unemployment limbo: Out-of-state employer, 1+ month wait, no updates. Help!
Hey everyone, I'm in a tough spot with my unemployment benefits and could use some advice. I applied over a month ago and still haven't been approved. The issue is that my former employer was an out-of-state agency owner, and I think he might not have reported things correctly. I've submitted all the paperwork, including my W2, which proves I qualify. But I can't get anyone on the phone for an update. Last I heard, they were trying to contact my ex-employer. I've tried reaching out to him directly, but no luck. I'm starting school and have continuing education requirements for my profession, which should qualify me under NY rules. This is really affecting my life, and I don't know what else to do. Any suggestions?
24 comments
Tom Maxon
I found a way to solve unemployment claim delay issues, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7CjO0O_H4A
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Samuel Robinson
Ugh, I feel your pain. The unemployment system is such a mess rn. Have you tried reaching out to your local state representative? Sometimes they can help push things along.
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Victoria Brown
That's a good idea, I hadn't thought of that. Do you know how I would go about contacting them?
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Samuel Robinson
Just google your address + 'state representative'. Most have contact forms on their websites. Good luck!
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Camila Castillo
I second this! My rep's office was super helpful when I had issues. Def worth a shot.
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Brianna Muhammad
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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JaylinCharles
Sounds too good to be true. Has anyone else tried this?
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Eloise Kendrick
20 bucks? Idk man, seems kinda sketchy 🤔
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Brianna Muhammad
I get the skepticism, but it seriously worked for me. After weeks of trying, I finally got through. Worth every penny imo.
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Lucas Schmidt
Can confirm, I used it too. Saved me hours of frustration.
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Freya Collins
Have you checked your online account for any updates or messages? Sometimes they communicate through there without actually calling.
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LongPeri
Okay, let me break this down for you: 1. Document everything: Keep a log of all your attempts to contact them, including dates and times. 2. Email barrage: Send emails to every address you can find for the unemployment office. Use keywords like 'urgent' and 'hardship' in the subject line. 3. Social media: Try reaching out to NYDOL on Twitter or Facebook. Sometimes public posts get faster responses. 4. Legal aid: Look into free legal aid services in your area. They might be able to advocate for you. 5. Appeal: If you get denied, immediately file an appeal. Don't wait. 6. State rep: As others mentioned, contact your state representative's office. 7. Persistence is key: Keep calling, even if it's frustrating. Try different times of day. Remember, the system is overloaded, but you have rights. Don't give up!
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Victoria Brown
Wow, thank you so much for this detailed response! I'll definitely start working through this list. Really appreciate it 💯
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Oscar O'Neil
This is gold 👌 Saving this for future reference!
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Sara Hellquiem
have u tried faxing ur documents? i kno it sounds old school but sometimes it gets attention faster than email or mail
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Victoria Brown
Faxing? Lol, didn't even know that was still a thing. But I'm desperate enough to try anything at this point. Thanks!
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Charlee Coleman
Not to be that guy, but are you sure you qualify if you voluntarily left your job to go back to school? That might be the holdup.
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Victoria Brown
I checked the NY rules, and they have provisions for people in training programs or continuing education. But you're right, that could be causing confusion on their end.
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Charlee Coleman
Ah gotcha. Yeah, anything out of the ordinary can throw a wrench in the works. Hope you get it sorted soon!
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Liv Park
OMG I'm literally in the same boat!!! 🚣♀️ My ex-employer is being a total 🤡 and won't respond to the unemployment office. It's been 2 months for me. This system is so broken 😤
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Victoria Brown
2 months?! That's insane. I'm so sorry you're dealing with this too. Hopefully some of the advice here can help both of us!
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Leeann Blackstein
Pro tip: If you can't get through on the main line, try calling some of the smaller local offices. Sometimes they're less swamped and can actually help or transfer you to the right person.
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Ryder Greene
Have you considered reaching out to a local news station? They sometimes do stories on people struggling with unemployment issues, and it can light a fire under the department to resolve things.
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Victoria Brown
That's an interesting idea. I'm a bit nervous about going public, but if things don't improve, I might consider it.
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