If you can't find your unemployment insurance number anywhere, you can also try creating a new my.ny.gov account using the same SSN and personal info you used originally. The system should recognize you already have a claim and link you to your existing account automatically. This happened to me when I forgot my login details - it pulled up my claim info right away without needing to remember the specific UI number.

Another option if you're still stuck - check if you have any screenshots on your phone from when you first applied. I always take photos of confirmation screens now because I've learned the hard way that these numbers are easy to lose! Also, if you used direct deposit for your application, your bank might have records of the NYS DOL setup process that could include your claim reference information.

This is actually a really good position to be in! The fact that your employer received an approval letter is huge - it means the system has already determined you're eligible for benefits due to childcare issues. What likely happened is there was a processing error where your denial letter wasn't updated when a human reviewer overturned the automatic denial. I'd recommend bringing both letters to your hearing - the judge will immediately see the contradiction and it should be a quick resolution in your favor. In the meantime, you might want to try calling right when they open (7:30am) for shorter wait times, or check if your online account shows anything different than "pending." Document everything and keep copies of both letters! This kind of system glitch is frustrating but you're actually in a strong position with that employer approval letter as proof.

This exact same thing happened to my sister last year! She got completely contradictory letters too - one denying her claim and another (meant for her employer) approving it for the same reason. Turns out the system had an automated denial that got overridden by a human reviewer, but somehow only the employer's letter got updated properly. The good news is that having the employer approval letter is actually really strong evidence in your favor. When she went to her hearing, the judge took one look at both letters and immediately ruled that she was eligible. The whole thing was resolved in like 10 minutes. My advice: definitely attend the hearing and bring both letters to show the inconsistency. Also try calling super early (like 7:30am when they open) - wait times are usually shorter then. Keep copies of everything! You're in a much better position than most people dealing with unemployment issues.

One more important thing: if you're expecting to be laid off, don't apply until after your last day of work. Applying early can create complications. When you do apply, make sure to have the following ready: - Your SSN - NY State driver's license or ID card number - Your complete work history for the last 18 months (employer names, addresses, phone numbers) - Alien registration card if you're not a US citizen - Form SF8 and SF50 if you were a federal employee - Your DD-214 if you served in the military And remember to claim your weekly benefits every week after you've applied, even if your application is still pending!

Just wanted to add something that might help - if you do get laid off and apply, keep detailed records of everything! Screenshot your application, save confirmation emails, and keep a log of any phone calls or correspondence with the DOL. I learned this the hard way when I had to reapply last year. Having documentation saved me so much time when they asked me to verify information later. Also, if you're in a union, check with your rep - sometimes they have additional resources or can help navigate any issues that come up. Good luck with everything, and I hope the layoffs don't actually happen!

my roommate just said we can also go to the unemployment office in person and they'll print the tax forms right there! might be faster than waiting for mail

I went through something similar last year! The NY unemployment system is absolutely terrible. What finally worked for me was going to the local DOL office in person - they were able to print my 1099-G immediately. I'd recommend calling ahead to confirm they can help with tax documents and what ID you need to bring. Also, if you do end up needing to file an extension, don't stress too much - the IRS is pretty understanding about delays caused by government agency issues. Just make sure to document all your attempts to get the forms in case you need to explain the delay later.

Just wanted to follow up - did you manage to get through? I found that using a landline (if you have access to one) sometimes works better than a cell phone. Something about how their phone system processes the calls.

So glad you got through! The 7:58am trick really does work - I've recommended it to several people and it seems to be the sweet spot before the lines get completely jammed. Congrats on getting your claim completed! For anyone else still struggling, definitely try calling right before 8am on a Wednesday or Thursday. And yes, having all your employment info ready is crucial - they move fast once you're connected and don't want to waste time looking things up.