One more suggestion based on my experience - after I used Claimyr to get through to a rep, I learned my claim was held up because I had accidentally answered YES to the question about being out of my authorized work area during one week's certification. I didn't even remember doing this! The agent was able to correct it on the spot. Double-check all your past certifications if possible to see if you might have made a similar mistake along the way.

I finally got through to someone!!! After 3+ hours on hold today. Turns out my claim was flagged for "additional wage verification" because I had worked in both NY and NJ last year. They never notified me about needing additional documents! The agent released the hold and said I should receive all my backpay within 3-5 business days. I'm cautiously optimistic but won't believe it until I see the money. Thank you all for your help and suggestions during this nightmare!

Hey Miguel! I just went through this process about 3 months ago when my company did layoffs. My experience was pretty similar to what others have shared - took about 2.5 weeks for my initial claim to get approved. One thing I wish I had known earlier is that you can check your claim status online through the NYS DOL portal, and they'll send you a determination letter (either by mail or electronically) once they make a decision. Since you filed last Monday, I'd expect to hear something by the end of next week or early the week after. For your rent situation, you might want to reach out to your landlord now to let them know about the timing - many are understanding about unemployment delays if you communicate upfront. Also echoing what others said about filing your weekly certifications immediately - don't wait for approval!

I just wanted to add another perspective since I went through this process twice - once in 2022 and again earlier this year. The first time took almost 6 weeks because I didn't realize I needed to provide additional documentation about my previous employer (they had since closed down). The second time was much smoother at just under 3 weeks. My advice would be to log into your account frequently and check for any messages or document requests - they don't always send email notifications for everything. Also, if you haven't already, make sure you have your direct deposit information set up correctly in the system. Nothing worse than getting approved and then waiting extra days for a paper check to arrive in the mail. Good luck with your claim Miguel, and definitely follow everyone's advice about those weekly certifications!

Just want to say I understand the position you're in. The gap between early retirement and Social Security eligibility is tough to navigate financially.

I'm actually dealing with something similar right now at 64. One thing to consider is whether you could negotiate a severance package that includes having your employer classify it as a layoff rather than retirement. Some companies will work with employees on this, especially if they're already planning cuts. It might be worth having a conversation with HR about your options before making any final decisions. Also, look into COBRA and other health insurance options since that's usually a big expense during this transition period.

Just wanted to jump in and say I feel your pain. Been freelancing for 5 years and the feast or famine cycle is real. I've basically had to become my own insurance company at this point.

Have you considered looking into the Freelancers Union? While they can't get you into the NYS Department of Labor unemployment system, they do offer some benefits and resources specifically for independent contractors. They have health insurance options and sometimes advocate for policy changes that could help freelancers in the future. Also, if you're doing graphic design, you might want to check if there are any creative industry organizations that offer emergency grants or short-term financial assistance during slow periods. It's not the same as UI, but it's something. The lack of a safety net is definitely one of the biggest downsides to freelancing in NY.

I'm going through something similar right now - got hit with a forfeit notice last month for allegedly not reporting some side work properly. From what I've been reading here and my own experience, they should keep paying you during the appeal process. I've been getting my weekly payments while waiting for my hearing date (still 2 months out 😤). The scary part is if you lose, you have to pay back everything you received during the appeal PLUS serve the forfeit period. So definitely start setting aside some money just in case. I've been putting 30% of each payment into a separate account as my "oh shit" fund. Also, gather EVERY piece of documentation you have about that income from April - bank statements, pay stubs, screenshots, emails, literally everything. The more evidence you bring showing you tried to report correctly, the better your chances. Good luck with your hearing in November!

Hey, I'm new to this community but dealing with a similar situation right now. Got a forfeit notice three weeks ago and have been panicking about whether they'll cut off my benefits. Reading through everyone's responses here is super reassuring - sounds like they do keep paying during the appeal process which is a huge relief. I'm definitely taking the advice about saving some money just in case I lose. The idea of having to pay everything back is terrifying but at least now I know what to expect. Also going to start gathering all my documentation like everyone suggests. Has anyone had success with those callback services that keep getting mentioned? I've been trying to call unemployment for weeks with no luck and I'm getting desperate to talk to someone about my specific case.