I had the same frustrating experience with the my.ny.gov system showing inconsistent information! What finally worked for me was clearing my browser cache and cookies before logging in, then checking the "Weekly Claim History" section instead of just the main dashboard. That section tends to be more reliable and shows the actual processing dates. Also, if you're still not seeing your payment after resolving the job search verification issue, try logging out completely and back in - sometimes the system doesn't refresh properly when you're continuously logged in. The whole system definitely needs an overhaul, but these workarounds helped me track my payments more accurately.

I've been dealing with similar payment status confusion on my.ny.gov for months now! One thing that really helped me was setting up text notifications through the DOL system - you can enable them in your account settings under "Communication Preferences." They'll send you updates when your claim is processed or if there are any issues. It's not perfect but at least you get notified instead of constantly checking the website. Also, I learned that payments typically get released between 2-4 AM on Wednesday mornings, so if you don't see it by Thursday, that's when you know something is definitely wrong and need to call.

The NYS Department of Labor overpayment system is SO frustrating! They make it seem like you're automatically guilty and have to prove your innocence. I fought mine for months and they STILL took money out of my tax refund even though I thought I was following their appeal process correctly. Make sure you file that appeal paperwork exactly right!

I went through something similar last year. The key is to act fast on that appeal deadline - don't wait! When I got my overpayment notice, I immediately requested all my records from NYS DOL through their online portal. You can log into your NY.gov account and access your claim history, which will show exactly what you reported each week. Compare that against your actual work records to see where the discrepancy might be. Also, if you can't afford to pay the full amount even if you lose the appeal, they do offer payment plans. Don't panic - you have options!

ugh the whole system is so confusing!! why cant they just send the money when they approve you like every other normal system. i've been waiting 5 days and still nothing

I had the exact same confusion when I first got approved! The approval just means you're eligible - you still have to do the weekly certification every Sunday through Wednesday to actually get paid. I'd log into my.ny.gov right now and check if there's a pending weekly claim waiting for you. Once you certify for your first week, the direct deposit should hit within 2-3 business days. The system is definitely not intuitive but once you get into the rhythm it becomes routine.

just keep in mind your weekly benefit amount is based on your previous earnings, and there's usually a one week waiting period before your first payment. so don't panic if you don't see money immediately after filing your first claim.

One thing to add - make sure you understand the difference between your "weekly benefit rate" and your total benefit amount. Your weekly rate is what you get each week (usually around 50% of your average weekly wage), but you have a maximum total amount you can receive over the entire benefit year. In NY it's typically 26 times your weekly rate. Also, if you do any part-time work while collecting, you need to report those earnings when you file your weekly claim - they might reduce your benefit for that week but you won't lose eligibility completely. The system is pretty good at catching unreported work so always be honest about any income.

For job search requirements, you need to apply for suitable work which generally means jobs that match your skills, experience, and pay rate (though the acceptable pay rate decreases over time). You don't have to stay in retail forever, but early on you should focus on similar positions.

Just to add to what everyone's said - don't stress too much about the application process! I was super nervous when I applied for the first time after getting laid off from my warehouse job. The online system walks you through everything step by step. One tip: apply as soon as possible after your last day of work because there's usually a one-week waiting period before benefits start, and you want to get that clock ticking. Also, if you're unsure about any of the questions during the application, it's better to answer honestly and let them determine your eligibility rather than guess. Good luck!