Where can I apply for unemployment in person at NYS Department of Labor office?

Unfortunately most NYS Department of Labor offices don't do walk-in unemployment applications anymore since COVID. They really want everything done online through my.ny.gov or over the phone. Have you tried calling the unemployment phone line? The number is 1-888-209-8124 but I'll warn you it's nearly impossible to get through.

same thing happened to me last month, the website kept timing out during the work history part. what browser are you using? i had to switch to chrome and clear all my cookies before it would work properly

For in-person assistance, you might want to check if there's a One-Stop Career Center near you. While they can't process your unemployment application directly, they sometimes have staff who can help you navigate the online system or troubleshoot technical issues. You can also try visiting the main NYS Department of Labor office in Albany, but I'd call first to see if they're accepting walk-ins for unemployment matters.

I had the same problem getting through to NYS Department of Labor by phone. A friend told me about this service called Claimyr that helps you get connected to an actual agent. I was skeptical at first but tried it and got through to someone in about 20 minutes. They have a website at claimyr.com and there's a demo video at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Might be worth checking out if you keep having trouble with the online application.

The system is completely broken!! I've been trying to file for 3 weeks and keep getting error messages. They make it impossible on purpose so they don't have to pay out benefits. It's criminal how they treat people who just lost their jobs.

I'm in a similar situation and finally got through after weeks of trying. Here's what worked for me: 1) Use Chrome browser in incognito mode, 2) Try filing very early in the morning (like 6-7 AM) when fewer people are online, 3) Have ALL your employment history ready beforehand - employer names, addresses, dates, and reason for separation. The system times out if you take too long entering info. Also, make sure you're on the correct site - it should be my.ny.gov/signin, not any other URL. Don't give up, it's frustrating but once you get it submitted the process moves pretty quickly after that.

I work at a local library in Rochester and we've had several people come in asking for help with unemployment applications when the website wasn't working. What we've found helpful is using our public computers which seem to have fewer issues, and our staff can sit with you while you fill it out if you need assistance. Most libraries have good internet connections and updated browsers. The Monroe County Library system has locations throughout Rochester - you might want to call ahead and ask if they can help you with the online application. It's not the same as in-person DOL service, but at least you'd have someone there to help troubleshoot if the site crashes again.