Just went through something similar with Grubhub documentation! One thing that really helped me was creating a simple spreadsheet that matched up my app earnings with my bank deposits by date - made it super easy for the NYSDOL reviewer to see everything lined up. Also, if you're missing any months of bank statements, most banks let you download statements going back several years through their online portal for free. Don't stress too much - they really just want to verify you weren't making fraudulent claims. The fact that you actually worked and have some documentation puts you in a much better position than people who were completely fabricating employment.

Hey Giovanni! I just went through this exact same situation with NYSDOL about my DoorDash work from 2019. Here's what worked for me: I created a timeline document showing all my gig work by month, then attached bank statements highlighting the deposits, screenshots from the app, and my 1099s. The key thing they told me when I finally got through to an agent was to include a detailed letter explaining any gaps in documentation and why. For example, if you can't find certain months of bank statements, explain that in your cover letter. Also, make sure to submit everything as one complete package rather than sending documents separately - they apparently have issues tracking multiple submissions. The whole process took about 3 weeks once I submitted everything properly. Don't stress too much - they're really just checking that you weren't making false claims, and it sounds like you have solid proof of actual work. Good luck!

I'm dealing with something similar right now! Been stuck in this certification loop for 2 weeks. What's really frustrating is that I get the confirmation email saying my certification was successful, but then the next day it's like it never happened. I tried calling during different times of day but can never get through to a human. Has anyone tried certifying at different times during the week? I've been doing it on Sundays like you're supposed to, but wondering if there's a better day/time when their system is less glitchy. Also going to try the Claimyr service that people are mentioning - at this point I'm willing to pay to get this resolved since I'm behind on bills too.

This is exactly what happened to me back in October! The certification would go through, I'd get the confirmation, then wake up the next day to find out I supposedly never certified. It's like the system has amnesia. What finally worked for me was discovering I had an old questionnaire buried in my account that I never completed from when I first filed. It was under a different tab and wasn't showing up as a notification anywhere. Once I found it and filled it out, my certifications started going through normally. Check every single section of your account - messages, documents, questionnaires, everything. Sometimes there's a random form or verification requirement hiding somewhere that's blocking your payments without telling you. The NY unemployment system is notorious for this kind of stuff. If you can't find anything, definitely try the phone certification instead of online, or vice versa. Sometimes one method works when the other doesn't. And yeah, keep those screenshots of everything - you'll need proof of your certification attempts when you finally get through to someone.

have you considered taking on some part time work while you rebuild your business? that way you'd start paying into UI for future protection

I'm in a similar boat - been freelancing as a graphic designer and haven't had steady work in months. From what I've learned, New York does have some options beyond traditional UI that might help. You could look into the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs which sometimes offer support for people transitioning between different types of work. Also, if you're willing to take on even part-time W-2 employment, you'd start building eligibility for future unemployment benefits. In the meantime, definitely explore local food banks and utility assistance programs - many don't require you to have been traditionally employed. The struggle is real when you're self-employed and hit a rough patch.

Have u reached out to ur previous employer? Sometimes they can help verify ur previous claim or at least provide documentation that might help.

I went through something similar earlier this year - the email issue is such a nightmare with their system! One thing that worked for me was going to my local One-Stop Career Center in person. I brought every piece of paperwork I had from my previous claim (old letters, benefit statements, anything with my claim number on it) and they were able to look me up in their system and help reset my account access. It took about 2 hours but they got me back in same day. Way better than spending weeks on the phone. You can find your nearest location on the NY DOL website under "career centers." Definitely bring your ID, Social Security card, and any old unemployment docs you have. Good luck!

adjudication sucks but mine was only like 2 weeks. depends what the issue is i guess??

I went through adjudication last fall and it took about 3.5 weeks for my case. The hardest part is definitely the uncertainty and not knowing when it will end. A few tips that helped me: 1) Keep detailed records of all your job search activities since you'll need to show you're actively looking for work, 2) Check your my.ny.gov account daily for any requests for additional information - sometimes they ask for documents and if you miss it, it can delay things even more, 3) Consider reaching out to local food banks or emergency assistance programs to help bridge the gap while you wait. The back pay really does come through if you're approved, so hang in there. I know it's scary when rent is due but you're doing everything right by continuing to file weekly.