Need urgent contact number for NY unemployment rep - keep getting runaround

I don't think there is a direct number to speak to a specific unemployment rep, they hide behind that main number. Try dialing it, then press 1, wait, then 2, then 9. Sometimes that pathway gets me to a person faster than other options. Otherwise, filing a complaint to the governor's office worked for me, you can try 518-474-8390. Good luck, the whole system is garbage.

After wasting 2 weeks trying to get through, I finally used this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that calls for you and connects when a real person answers. Talking to an agent got my $ unlocked so fast - they resolved my issue in like 15 minutes once I actually got someone on the line. Check out how it works: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE

Call your local state senator or assembly person's office!! They have dedicated staff who can escalate unemployment issues. Google your district representative, their office can create a case for you. Worked for me after 6 weeks of getting nowhere with NYSDOL directly.

The only way I found to actually reach a human was by selecting the option for "filing a new claim" even though I wasn't filing a new claim. For some reason that route has shorter wait times and the reps can usually help with existing claims too. Worth a shot.

Been there... systems DESIGNED to frustrate us into giving up on benefits we're entitled to. I eventually got through by calling EXACTLY at 8:00:00 am when they open. Had to try 3 days in a row but finally worked. If all else fails, contact your state rep or the labor commissioner's office at 518-457-9000. They can sometimes expedite cases.

Look, here's the ACTUAL strategy that works for NY unemployment (from someone who spent 6 years working in a call center): 1. Call the main number early (7:55am) and get into the queue before they officially open 2. When prompted, select options related to payment issues or fraud - these get higher priority routing 3. Have your NY.gov ID, SSN, and all claim details ready to expedite verification 4. If disconnected, immediately call back using same sequence 5. If 3 attempts fail, try the claimyr.com service others have mentioned - it keeps dialing until someone answers 6. As last resort, file formal complaint with DOL Commissioner's office AND contact state representative The system is intentionally difficult to navigate, but persistence and using multiple channels simultaneously will eventually get results. The key is documenting everything - dates called, who you spoke with, what was promised. I spent 4 weeks getting nowhere until I took this systematic approach. Had my issue resolved in 2 days after that.

Ever notice how the unemployment office is IMPOSSIBLE to reach but the overpayment collection department picks up on the first ring? 🤔 System working exactly as designed...

Honestly your best bet is reaching out to your state assembly person. Don't call the governors office, thats useless. Here's what you do - google "who is my NY state assembly member", put in your address, contact their office and explain you need help with unemployment. They all have staff dedicated to handling these issues and can escalate directly to special DOL liaisons.

Try Twitter. I tweeted at @NYSLabor with my issue (no personal info) and they DM'd me asking for my info to look into it. Got a call from a supervisor 2 days later. Worth a shot when nothing else works.

I heard the ny unemployment system hired a bunch of new people but didnt train em properly so half of em don't even kno what there doing when u get em on the phone. my cousin works there and says its a mess behind the scenes