UPDATE: I called using the Claimyr service that someone suggested, and got through to a real person at the unemployment office. They explained that my Return Transcript doesn't show refund info, and I need the Account Transcript. They also checked my account and confirmed I DO have a refund coming - $743! It should be deposited next week. Thanks everyone for your help!

for next year just know that the online transcripts from the ny unemployment website are way easier to read than the mailed ones. save yourself the headache

honestly i think its super unfair that we even have to jump through all these hoops... like ur literally unable to do heavy lifting for medical reasons but the system treats u like ur just being lazy??? the whole thing is rigged against ppl with health issues who want to work but have limitations!!

One more important point: While pursuing SSI, consider speaking with a disability attorney. Many offer free initial consultations and only get paid if you win your case (usually taking a percentage of your backpay). They dramatically increase approval rates, especially for appeals. For immediate needs, check if your local Department of Social Services offers emergency assistance programs - these can sometimes provide temporary help while you're sorting out longer-term solutions.

my friend told me if u call exactly at 7:58am u can sometimes get thru before the system gets overloaded just fyi

Just a final clarification for anyone finding this thread later: - Regular UI: Ends based on your benefit year end date - Extended Benefits: Last week ending August 29, 2025 (must certify by September 5, 2025) - Special pandemic programs: All ended in September 2021 Check your online account to see which program you're currently on. It should show your current program type and benefit year end date on your main dashboard after logging in.

The official processing time for KeyBank UI deposits is within 24 hours of release from NYSDOL, regardless of weekends. However, most deposits are processed much faster, typically within 2-6 hours. Three factors affect availability speed: 1) Time of day the payment was released by NYSDOL, 2) Whether it's your first payment or recurring, and 3) The current processing volume at KeyBank. First-time payments sometimes take longer as the account setup is verified. If the funds don't appear by tomorrow morning, you can check the transaction status on the KeyBank unemployment debit card portal rather than the regular KeyBank banking app.

did u get the money yet? im curious if it showed up

Regarding career transitions and lower-paying jobs: If you've taken a position that pays substantially less than your previous employment, you may qualify for the NY Wage Subsidy Program that was implemented in January 2025. This temporary program provides supplemental income for up to 26 weeks to workers who were forced to take significant pay cuts (30%+) due to economic conditions. The application can be submitted through your NY.gov account under the "Additional Programs" section. This is separate from unemployment benefits and designed specifically for workers who have found employment but at much lower wages than their previous positions.

I'm so happy for you finding a job! I've been lurking in this group for months and it really has been helpful. Sometimes just knowing others are going through the same struggle makes it a little easier to bear. I was on unemployment for 9 months and just started a new position last month. Took a pay cut too but trying to stay positive. This group was literally my lifeline when my benefits were delayed for months with no explanation. Stay strong everyone still fighting the system!