Struggling to reach NYDOL for unemployment claim - Any tips to get through?

Ugh, I feel your pain. I've been trying to get through for weeks now. It's like they don't want us to actually talk to anyone. 🤬

I actually found a method that works! I used this site called claimyr.com. It's a calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to your phone. It does cost $20, but it totally worked for me. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/Rdqa1gKtxuE

Here's what I've learned after dealing with DOL for months: 1. Call right when they open. Like, be dialing at 7:59:59 AM. 2. If you get through the menu, stay on hold no matter what. I once waited 3 hours but finally got someone. 3. Have all your info ready - claim number, SSN, employment dates, etc. 4. Be super nice to the rep when you get one. They deal with angry people all day. 5. If one rep can't help, politely ask to be transferred to a specialist. 6. Keep a log of who you talked to and when. Hope this helps someone! Good luck out there, fellow unemployed warriors. 💪

Anyone else think its ridiculous that we even have to jump through all these hoops? The system is broken af 🤡

Pro tip: if you have Twitter, try tweeting at your state's DOL account. Sometimes they respond and can help escalate your case.

Idk if this will help, but I finally got through by selecting the Spanish option and then asking for an English speaker when I got a real person. Felt kinda bad about it, but desperate times... 🤷‍♂️