Where can I go to file unemployment in person with NYS Department of Labor?
My internet keeps cutting out and I can't get through the online filing system. Does NYS Department of Labor have physical offices where I can file my unemployment claim in person? I lost my job two weeks ago and I'm getting really stressed about missing deadlines. I've tried calling but the phone lines are always busy. Can someone tell me if there are actual locations I can visit to file my claim face to face?
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Savanna Franklin
NYS Department of Labor mostly operates online now through ny.gov portal. Most career centers are primarily for job search assistance rather than claim filing. You really need to file online or by phone. Have you tried calling early morning around 8am? That's usually when call volume is lowest.
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Sergio Neal
•I tried calling at 8am but still couldn't get through. The automated system just hangs up on me after being on hold for an hour.
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Juan Moreno
Try going to your local library - they usually have reliable internet and can help you access the ny.gov unemployment portal. Most NYS Department of Labor services moved online permanently. The career centers can provide computer access but they can't actually file your claim for you.
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Sergio Neal
•That's a good idea about the library! I didn't think of that. Do you know if they have staff who can help navigate the system?
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Juan Moreno
•Librarians can help with basic computer stuff but you'll need to handle the actual unemployment filing yourself since it requires your personal info.
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Amy Fleming
I had the same problem with not being able to get through by phone! I found this service called Claimyr at claimyr.com that actually got me connected to a real NYS Department of Labor agent. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/qyftW-mnTNI showing how it works. Saved me hours of trying to call myself.
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Alice Pierce
•How does that work exactly? Do they just call for you or what?
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Amy Fleming
•Yeah they handle the calling and waiting part, then connect you directly to an agent when they get through. Was way easier than spending all day trying to call myself.
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Esteban Tate
just file online dude its not that hard, the system works fine for most people
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Sergio Neal
•Easy for you to say but my internet connection drops every few minutes. I've tried multiple times and keep getting kicked out of the system.
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Ivanna St. Pierre
The NYS Department of Labor really needs to bring back in-person filing. Not everyone has reliable internet access and the phone system is a nightmare. This whole online-only approach is leaving people behind when they need help most.
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Elin Robinson
•Totally agree. My elderly neighbor couldn't figure out the online system and it took weeks to get help.
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