Final update: I used Claimyr and finally got through to someone! The agent said my account needed a manual override because I qualified for Extended Benefits but the system hadn't triggered it properly due to a glitch. They fixed it and now I can see the extension application in my portal. Just submitted it and they said it should be processed within 5-7 business days. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help!

This is such a helpful thread! I'm having the exact same issue - exhausted my 26 weeks but my benefit year doesn't end until June 2025. I've been trying to call for over a week with no luck. Reading through everyone's experiences here, it sounds like the system glitch is pretty common where it doesn't automatically show extension options even when you qualify. I'm definitely going to try the Claimyr service since multiple people here had success with it. @Yuki Tanaka thanks for sharing your updates throughout the process - really gives me hope that this can be resolved! Going to keep trying to call at 8am too just in case I can get through the regular way.

I want to update everyone - I FINALLY got this resolved! I ended up doing several things at once: 1) contacted my assembly member as suggested, 2) used Claimyr to get through to NYSDOL directly, and 3) re-uploaded my ID documents. Turns out there WAS an identity verification issue. The agent I spoke to was able to see that my documents never fully processed in the system. She manually verified everything while on the phone with me, and my claim was reactivated within 48 hours. All my backpay is scheduled to be deposited next Tuesday! Thank you all SO MUCH for your help - I was seriously about to give up.

Wow, this thread is such a goldmine of information! I'm dealing with a similar situation where my benefits got cut off unexpectedly back in October. Reading through everyone's experiences and solutions gives me hope that I can get this sorted out too. I'm definitely going to try the assemblyperson route first since multiple people mentioned success with that approach. It's so frustrating that we have to jump through all these hoops just to get the benefits we're entitled to, but at least there are people like you all sharing what actually works. Thanks for taking the time to update us on your resolution @Destiny Bryant - stories like yours keep the rest of us going!

Just file it when you remember to during your window. I've been doing mine Tuesday mornings for months and never had an issue. The exact time doesn't affect your payment processing.

I usually file mine on Sunday evenings too and it's always worked fine! The key thing is just staying within your filing window based on your SSN. I've noticed the system can be a bit slow on Monday mornings (probably everyone rushing to file), so Sunday evenings or later in the week tend to be smoother. As long as you're consistent and file within your designated timeframe, you should be all set.

Glad you got it resolved! For future reference, the best practice is to wait at least 3 business days before attempting to certify again or contact them. Their system runs batch processing that sometimes takes a few days to complete, especially around system maintenance periods.

Just wanted to add that I've been dealing with similar issues for the past month. The NY unemployment system has definitely been more unstable since their January update. I've found that using incognito/private browsing mode sometimes helps when the regular browser isn't working. Also, if you're using a mobile device, try switching to desktop - the mobile version seems to have more glitches. One tip that worked for me: after certifying, I always take a screenshot of the confirmation page AND write down the confirmation number if they give you one. It's saved me twice when having to call and prove I actually submitted my certification. Hope this helps others avoid the stress you went through!

Sounds like you're dealing with the Treasury Offset Program. They can take up to 25% of your benefits to pay federal debts. The most common reasons are tax debts, defaulted student loans, or child support. Call the Treasury Offset Program directly at 1-800-304-3107 to find out what debt they're collecting. It's usually faster than trying to reach unemployment.

This exact same thing happened to my brother last year! He was getting his full $487 weekly and then boom - suddenly only $365 with "offset" showing up. Turned out it was for unpaid state taxes from 2020 that he had completely forgotten about. The frustrating part is they gave him zero warning - just started taking the money. He had to use one of those callback services (I think it was claimyr too) to actually reach someone and find out what was going on. Once he knew what it was for, he was able to set up a payment plan with the tax department to reduce the offset amount. Definitely call that Treasury Offset number someone mentioned - that's probably your fastest route to getting answers!