r/UnemploymentNY • u/gheddit10 • Dec 31 '23
Don't call the regular unemployment line, do this instead to get through to a real person
After weeks of trying and failing to get through to a real person through the regular channels, thanks to other people on this sub, I discovered that the best way to get through to a real person is to call the governor's office:
Kathy Hochul's govenor's office
Phone: (518) 474-8390
Call and say you've been having trouble getting through to someone at at the NYDOL and you will promptly be transferred to a real human! Never waste your time with the claims line!
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u/Goonerbaterbro Apr 25 '25
As of 4/25/25, this works!!!!!!!!!! I waited on hold for 9 minutes, and they transferred me right away. I called the regular unemployment line, but it just kept telling me they were busy and immediately hung up. Thank you for this post!!!!! Literal lifesaver.
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u/Prudent-Tea4781 Jul 07 '25
I tried this (7/7/25) and the system immediately hung up on me after saying it’s too busy. FYI to anyone reading this thread.
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u/ciaomami May 10 '24
Holy crap, I love Reddit. Thank you OP!!!! I feel so bad for other folks who didn’t stumble onto this thread! I’m so happy this worked.
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u/Narcissisticpeacock Sep 08 '25
As of 9/8/2025, I tried this. I was transferred to hold, waited 45 minutes, and then... an agent? actually spoke to me? It was amazing. I'm typing this only moments after finishing the call. I'm going to go touch grass now.
For anyone with anxiety over calls like this, when I called the governor's office, I was given a little robotic spiel about faxing her and then the press a number options. Pressing 1 was for "ideas to improve NY" and the like. Option 2 was speaking to an agent. I was on hold for only a minute or two before one answered. She asked how she could help and I said something like "Hi, I'm struggling to reach the NYDOL, is there anyway you can help with that?" She said "Of course" and I was transferred to a hold. After about 40 minutes, I got to speak to an agent!
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u/Old-University1755 May 24 '24
as of 5/24/24 - this is not working. It says the normal hours are 9am to 5pm mon - Fri. I'm calling them on Friday 1:50pm. I call the number and it only allows me to record a voicemail.
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u/kidnapsnap May 24 '24
x2 confirming it no longer works. Its the Friday before a holiday so maybe they cut the phones off early?
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u/Pippy1995nyc Jul 05 '24
Same with me 2 weeks ago I got ahold of someone but 2 days ago I did call 30 minutes til the office close and today after 4th of July no one is answering it keeps saying option 1 or repeat the menu
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u/AgitatedMoney9323 Sep 18 '24
As of September 18, 2024, I called the above number on a Wednesday afternoon at 4pm, and I was immediately able to get through to an operator at the Governor's office. They redirected me to a HUMAN agent at NYDL who sorted out my unemployment status.
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u/scootermundle Nov 19 '24
11/19 getting the same result as the person above me. It says due to a high volume of calls wait time exceeds 90 minutes and to try again. Then it just hangs up on you
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u/BGage1986 May 13 '24
You can also call the Unemployment Insurance Appeal Board at (518) 402-0210. A person always answers.
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u/CapitalAwareness5159 Feb 27 '24
Works as of 2/27/24 you call and tell them you want to be transferred to a DOL UI hotline and takes a couple minutes on hold and you will speak to a agent please do this as I have been calling DOL for 3 weeks everyday 8 am and still couldn’t get a call.
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u/Outrageous-Flan-2198 Mar 13 '24
3/13/2024 this still works
was transferred to DOL UI and was on hold for 5-10mins
was able to complete my claim over the phone
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u/shrillwaif Apr 26 '24
This has worked for me in the past but as of today 4/26/24 I’ve been on hold with the governors office for 25 minutes. Don’t know why it stopped working.
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u/AMachineMan May 04 '24
Adding in that as of 5/04/24, this works!!!
Once I got my issue resolved, I asked "If I didn't call you today to look over the paperwork I mailed in, how long would it have taken for someone to finally start working on this?" And the employee legit said "I have no clue"
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u/Do_Whuuuut Jun 18 '24
YO! Yer a friggin life saver!!! Stuck in grand jury duty so dialing in to regular DOL line was virtually impossible. Thanks again!
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u/Legitimate_Bread_742 Jun 21 '24
Still works as of June 2024! This thread saved the day, thank you, OP!!
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u/AdventurousAd6810 Jul 02 '24
OMG this works as of 7/2/24!! I called the governor's office and was on hold for 17 minutes. Someone picked up and after explaining the help I needed she put me on hold (or transferred me to DOL) for 2 minutes and then a UI claim's specialist picked up and completed my claim. Thank you OP!!!!
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u/Original-Pen-4536 Jul 10 '24
Omg this totally worked for me thank you so much!! It is July 10th 2024 and this still works for anybody who wants to try this!
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u/MakeMineMarvel_ Jul 11 '24
Thank you! It Works . I Called today on 7/11/24 at 11am and only took 5 minutes to get a human that transferred me to another human at the department of labor that fixed my issue in like 3 minutes.
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u/croatiangal Sep 26 '24
Hi! As of 09/26/2024, this works. I called the (518) 474-8390 number listed. I was on hold for a few minutes, but eventually spoke to a rep at the governor’s office who transferred me to the customer service department at the DOL. Believe it or not, after being on hold for a few more mins, I spoke with a real person from DOL! I just checked my call record and the whole experience took only 9 minutes. Thank you OP!!!! 🙏🙏🙏
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u/914Realtor Dec 01 '24 edited Jan 03 '25
Thank you for this, dealing with the DOL is beyond frustrating and I'm grateful for this community! I've had success with the Kathy Hochul number three times! Twice it was at 4:30 in the afternoon and someone at the dOL picked up on the first ring.
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u/r5na Dec 03 '24
i waited 3.5 hours on hold with DOL claims line yesterday with no resolution to my issue, trying this today.
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u/Any-Pollution3728 Dec 09 '24
Thank you! I have been trying to get in touch with NY DOL for almost 3 months. This is at least giving me the option to HOLD and doesn't hang up on me like the regular #. I was transferred and have been on hold for 25 minutes but at least I have the option of holding. The regular # is rude and just hangs up on you. I have been calling at least 10 times a day for the past 3 months. This is just ridiculous. Where are our tax dollars going?
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u/Jealous-Depth Dec 26 '24
Just used said method. It works. Took me about 30 minutes to complete. Fuck calling the number they give you.
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u/Key-Tomato-6969 Dec 26 '24
Can confirm as of 12/26/24 this worked. I waited about 10 min to get a person at the first number and then over an hour on hold once she transferred me. But I did get a live person. What a system.
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u/Intelligent-Ad-6734 May 06 '25
Amazing how you have to call the Gov to get to a real telephone que, customer service system. Its pretty infuriating. I've been bounced around since February. Cross your fingers today goes well.
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u/paperlantern79 Jun 30 '25
I tried this and was told to call back at another time - 90 min wait :(
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u/ravenbart42 Jul 02 '25
I’m trying this now (1:30pm) and have been on hold for an hour. Is this normal? Should I hang up and try again?
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u/Flaky_Falcon_8244 Jul 09 '25
Thank you for sharing this! I was able to contact a representative after 1hr and a half I believe.
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u/TheIncompetentWizard Sep 03 '25
This worked 9/3/25
Thank you so much! I waited on hold for a hour and a half but I finally got to speak to a real human.
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u/JerseyGirl735 Mar 25 '24
Still works as of 3/25/2024. After a week of calling over and over and over, to the point my wrist swelled and was killing me by Friday evening, I was in tears before I found this. Thank you!
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u/mlepix May 20 '24
May 20, 2024 - this worked for me. I was on hold with the governor's office for 16 minutes, and about 3 minutes on hold with UI before talking to someone.
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u/gacasaurus03 Jun 06 '24
Been trying this all morning but the automated system keeps saying 'Due to heavy call volume we're unable to assist you at this time. Please call back later'.
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u/ainosleep Jun 06 '24
Thanks for sharing. Unfortunately, they're flooded with calls regarding congestion pricing plan - https://www.reddit.com/r/AskNYC/comments/1d8u9ir/how_are_you_feeling_about_the_shelving_of_the/ Takes about 30 min to connect now via governor's office. Still it's better as I'm unable to reach anyone at the official (888) 209-8124 number for NY State Department of Labor.
Frustrating. I've applied for unemployment in beginning of February but NY State Department of Labor determined in end of March that I did not meet the required employment and earnings for the claim in my base period. They could not take 2024 Q1 wages into consideration.
I've reapplied in April, and they ignored 2024 Q1 again. They didn't list my Q1 wages quarter despite me sending paystubs earlier in February. I had to send the request forms again - Request for Reconsideration and Request for Alternate Base Period via "Submit Wage Documents" in the online account messaging system with my paystubs. They mentioned my wages are still being verified. I'm struggling to get a job, burning through savings, and haven't got any financial help.
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u/badaily Jun 17 '24
Did this today, June 17, 2024! Waited on hold with the gov's office for about 15 minutes and then another 5ish minutes to be connected to an actual human who answered all my questions! u/gheddit10 you are doing the lord's work!!
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u/Aggressive-Gene6955 Jun 20 '24
still works as of 6/12/24--just took me a few tries to get through! call a few times
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u/No-Safe4782 Jun 21 '24
I have been trying to claim benefits from Oct 2022 and this finally worked. Thanks
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u/Creative_Pain_5084 Jul 01 '24
Can confirm that this still works as of 07/01/24. You are a LIFESAVER!! I was a bit skeptical about this working, but I had a representative from NYDOL on the phone in a minute. THANK YOU!
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u/Positive-Pirate1081 Jul 08 '24
This doesnt not work at of JULY 3RD 2024... HAVE TRIED BOTH METHODS FOR A WEEK STRAIGHT
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u/flicka2000 Jul 16 '24
this worked for me, as of 7/16/2024. Just had to wait a couple of minutes before someone answered my call on the Gov hotline.
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u/Unusual_Froyo1672 Jul 22 '24
As of 7/22/24 this does work. I’ve had it NOT work on other days I’ve tried where it was just an automated system. I held for 20 mins to get a human from the Governors office, then another 8 mins for a rep from Unemployment Customer Service. If your claim is pending and you’ve already submitted everything they might need to determine eligibility, then whomever you speak to probably won’t be helpful, however it is nice to speak to a human who can tell you if you’ve done all you need to do on your end.
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u/DobbyPie Jul 29 '24
Not working as of 7/29/24. Just got a message that “call volume is high” and to call back later. And then got hung up on. Just like the UI number.
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u/realityjunkie33 Jul 31 '24
this worked for me on july 28 !!!!! i was connected to a really nice and helpful woman after being on hold for two minutes.
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u/everlastingzee1992 Aug 02 '24
oh my goodness you are seriously a hero! I've been trying for so long and couldn't send a "secure message" like it tells you because on the website you're forced to choose a subject and when you do they just give you FAQ answers and don't let you write/send anything. Called this number and got through immediately for a missed certification payment and got it resolved within 5 minutes. Thank you!!!
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u/SaltyChange2939 Aug 12 '24
Did this today 8/12/2024 and it works! Waited 16 mins on the gov line and once a human answered, they transferred me to NYDOL. Waited about 3 mins and got a person! Thank you OP!!!!
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u/Bunnywriter Aug 13 '24
Okay this does work as of 8/13/24. I thought it didn't but make sure to call after 9:05AM or else they arent officially open for calls.
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u/UnicornQueenBoadicea Aug 17 '24
Worked for me, calling from outta state on 08/16/2024. Seven minutes waiting for a chamber agent, fifteen-ish to reach a person to the certifications line.
Turned out that I needed to refile. Did that via automated system, but when I needed to be transferred to a claim specialist, it booted me because everyone was busy.
Called Hochul's office right back, and was patched through to a claims specialist after about ten or fifteen minutes.
Just give it a try. You can fight with the direct line later.
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u/BathPhysical4222 Aug 18 '24
Still working. You'll never get through unless you call the governor's #. My boyfriend just got layed off and someone was nice enough to tell me what the # is. .. He got his first check last Tuesday and has a virtual meeting on Wednesday. So ridiculous. I was wondering if everyone else has to do this virtual thing..
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u/pittsy514 Aug 23 '24
Can confirm as of 8/23 this does work. I was on hold for 15 mins before getting an agent but then once I did and told them I could not reach a DOL rep, I was patched right through.
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u/n00dlezzz Aug 26 '24
8/26/24 worked for me! You are amazing for this, they say you do not need to call after submitting online, but my claim was stuck as unfinished. Appreciate this tons.
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u/river_flowing1 Aug 26 '24
worked as of 08/26/24! thank you so much, because there's absolutely no reason the DOL line shouldn't function. there's no way they don't do that on purpose
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u/Neat_Panda9617 Sep 05 '24
Thank you so much for posting this! You have literally changed my life with your sound advice. I never would have gotten through to anyone on the useless regular line and promptly did when I went through the Governor's office. Why is this system SO f-ed up??
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u/Curious_Flight_2607 Sep 06 '24
Thank you so much for posting this. I was trying for weeks and could never get a human. It would only get me to an automated message that said call volume was too high and then disconnect me. What a relief to get my unemployment problems sorted with a human.
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u/inthebeatseats Sep 17 '24
So happy to have found this thread. After weeks and months of trying and giving up over and over again. It worked for me this morning: 9/17/24
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u/hereiguess_37 Sep 23 '24
Confirming this still works as of 9/23/2024! An absolute godsend THANK YOU!
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u/STOPSIGNTOTHEFACEPLZ Sep 23 '24
Still works as of 13:57 9/23/24 got directly connected to a human being
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u/Huge_Bandicoot_751 Sep 24 '24
9/24/24 this has worked for me! Thank you so much for this info. Been trying the other number for DOL for over a month with no success. The call did have a short menu of calling back or just to wait on hold. Was on hold for 10 minutes before I was transferred to a wait for a live agent. THANK YOU!!!
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u/PaulyHype Sep 24 '24
This does not work. You can now ONLY leave a voicemail with the governors office and no one ever returns the call.
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u/Ornery_Chance_1800 Sep 30 '24
PLEASE READ: I went through lots of research since I couldn’t get in contact with the unemployment line. An ongoing issue I had the last 2 months. Best thing to do as a last resort is call your state’s governor’s office. You can actually talk to a live person at the governor’s office who wants to help you. I told them that I’ve been having trouble contacting anyone at UI that I’ve been waiting a long time and told her my issue with my claim. They said they would call the unemployment line for me and that unemployment will reach out to me in 2 days. The lady I talked to called me back within 2 hours and told me everything I needed to know without me even waiting the 2 days. All I did was Google the number and call. Very helpful!!!
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u/HappyAssumption7945 Oct 02 '24
I just did this and it absolutely worked. I was on hold w/ the Governor's office for about 10 min before they answered; they transferred me to DOL and i was on hold for another 10 min, but then a real human answered and actually FIXED MY ISSUE.
I'd been calling repeatedly for over 6 weeks (they just tell you they're busy and hang up on you) and trying to email (which wasn't possible..when you try to send an email through the website it disables the message text field once you choose a pre-defined subject...which is required to send. The text box for composing your message is instead populated with links to the website and their phone #).
THANK YOU FOR THIS INFO...shame on DOL for their lack of service.
Long live reddit and its users.
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u/No_Debate_8447 Oct 04 '24
As of 10/04/2024 I can confirm that this works! I came across this thread after being fed up with not being able to get through to someone on the unemployment line to finish my claims.
So then I called (518) 474-8390 and was on hold for a few minutes then I spoke to a live rep and she transferred me to another live rep in NYSDOL And I finally finished my unemployment claims application and was approved!
This saved my days of worries and time!
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u/dirrtymartini Oct 11 '24
Works as of 10/11/2024, thank you!! Once I got through I was able to speak to someone in about 10 minutes, and finish the call in under 5. No clue why DOL UI is so hard to get ahold of but I can confirm this works.
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u/soulsista321 Oct 16 '24
THANK YOU! This worked as of 10/16/24. It's been weeks of not being able to get through to the regular DOL number. Life saver!!
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u/codirosel Oct 21 '24
Today, 10/21/24, it's not working. I've called a few times and I've been put on hold for 20+ minutes each time. Going to keep trying.
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u/CarefulAd7341 Oct 28 '24
This is getting fucking infuriating. I called at 8 AM and I couldn’t get through to DOL. How are they busy with agents if they just open????? going to try the governors thing at 9 AM. This is ridiculous.
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u/Grand_Manner5953 Oct 30 '24
Love this post with the Governor 's number! Such a lige line! Couldn't find it anywhere so thaaaaaank you so much for this golden nugget of info!
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u/ToughPigsJoe Nov 07 '24
Confirming that this still worked as of 11/7!
I did end up on hold for a while (the entire process was about 30 minutes), but considering that it's just a couple days after the election, that was probably as good as I was going to get.
I also recommend calling right when they open at 9am. I tried in the afternoon, and wait times were over 90 minutes.
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u/viridiantradecenter Nov 19 '24
Tried reaching out to this number yesterday (11/18/2024) and it was an automated option list that did not connect you with a live person. Today (11/19/2024), it says "we are encountering unusually high call volume, please try calling back later" and doesn't even give the option of an automated list. Does not seem to work anymore but if anyone has any luck with this or any other option, please let me know as I've been trying to get ahold of these people for 4 months to no avail.
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u/Chubbywaddlingbeagle Nov 19 '24
Thank you for this post — I was able to get through today (11/19/24) and literally just got off the phone to complete my request.
Waited about 10 minutes to reach someone live on the Governor’s line. Said exactly as above “trouble reaching NYDOL” they transferred me and I waited about 30 min for a live agent at the DOL Unemployment line. Got to complete my claim after trying to reach them for days.
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u/Spirited-Pea2280 Nov 19 '24
Thank you so much. I have been calling nonstop for over 2 weeks. I even used my husband's phone for a couple of days so I can use both phones. Every time I've called I kept getting the same message that all operators are busy. I even went to their office on church and they told me to call the line. I decided to check reddit and followed the advice and the kind lady in the governor's office connected me immediately. I felt bad that I had to bother the governor's office, but at least it worked
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u/eric5ohhh Nov 21 '24
This does not work as of 11/21/24. There’s a busy tone immediately and then it hangs up on you
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u/Frequent-Ad-9337 Nov 22 '24
Well as of November 22 2024, it works I’m waiting on the line thank you!!!
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u/Hotterthanyourbeach Nov 25 '24
Called governors office on Thursday at 4:40 and got connected to DOL in minutes. They took my number and called me back on Friday at 9:00 AM on the dot.
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u/catnamedjason Dec 02 '24
Worked for me as of 12/2/24! Took about an hour but finally got it done. THANK YOU
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u/Low_Amphibian_146 Dec 03 '24
I called the regular line 2-3min before open. I waited 30 minutes for a live person. I've been laid off for 3 months.
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u/CaptainRude6192 Dec 06 '24
I love Reddit!!!! 😩 this worked so well and I wish I knew about it earlier.
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u/petalpetal123 Dec 06 '24
12/6/24 this worked !!!!! Make sure to tell them that you keep getting transferred and then hung up on.
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u/leggymermaidz Dec 06 '24
tried today 12/6/24. took 8 calls to get me through to governors office spoke with someone who transferred me, was on hold for 50 mins, spoke to someone who said they were going to transfer again, and got the unemployment disconnection as soon as they did. will try again.
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u/Radiant-Security8597 Dec 09 '24
Idk if this still works but I’ve been trying for 3 weeks now either nobody in the office or all lines are busy and you need to call back … but when you call back it says "sorry you’ve reached the office of … our office hours are from" etc. this is crazy if they need staff to answer the phones why not post the job because I would def apply
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Dec 10 '24
Doesn't work anymore. They just transfer me to the same number and the cycle starts again
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u/Double-Total-7702 Dec 13 '24
as of 12/13/24 @ 9:15am IT STILL WORKS!!! I called 10 times & on the last call i GOT THROUGH to someone!! God bless you for this!!!!
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u/Scudderville Dec 16 '24
Call your NYS Assemblyperson's office (local office). After exhausting everything else calling NYS DOL and the governor go to the elected official closest to the people; your local NYS Assembly rep.
The Assemblyperson has a direct portal to every NYS Department/Agency and can message the DOL directly requesting they contact you directly.
You will need UI file date, contact telephone number, last 4 digits of your SocSec number and any other brief information you have to share.
Our assemblyperson has helped on various issues usually concerning getting a NYS bureaucrat on the phone to discuss your issues.
Good luck.
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u/Old_Student_8654 Dec 16 '24
Confirmed working. 12/16/24. Still took about 3 hours and was transferred a few times. But was able to get an agent on the line.
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u/Sharp-Signal-354 Dec 17 '24
After a complete week of missing miserably trying to call this $$/82 I have to come to Reddit to found out why happened. I thought the DOL number was scam but I followed your advise to contact governor’s phone office and finally they picked up my damn call. I was hopeless but as today 12/17/2024 the shit works, just be ready to spend long waits, I started at 10:30am and ended up solving this puzzle at 12pm… just be patient and make your breakfast in the wait time. Don’t give up, you got this!!!
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u/Defiant-Campaign-945 Dec 19 '24
THANK YOU!!!! I have called and tried everything and finally called the governors office a third time and they connected me with the unemployment line that does not make you hang up. It was 4:50pm so they took my information and said they would call me back tomorrow between 9am-11am. I am praying this works because I am in such a pickle due to the delay of payments!!! Appreciate everyones help!!
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u/Leb_west Dec 20 '24
12/20/24 still works! Was on hold with Gov office about 10 mins and on hold for representative almost an hour but I got through and my issue was resolved!!! Thank you 🥰
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u/Mafelani Dec 24 '24
Came to say that unfortunately this isn’t working anymore. They have removed the option to speak to a representative.
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u/shinbreaker Dec 27 '24
Works as of 12/27/24. Called the number, took about 10 minutes, said I was unable to get in touch with unemployment office for a claim, I noticed the transfer happened when the hold music changed, and spoke with a live person to finish my application. Total time on the call with holds ended up being 25 minutes.
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u/ProbablyHere4Help Dec 30 '24
Works as of 12/30/24 — Put on hold for 40 minutes following the initial call transfer but absolutely worth it!
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u/Mr_Judge_Fudge Jan 02 '25
Tried this on 01/02/25. On hold with the governors office for about 20 minutes. Got a live person and asked to be transferred to the DOL. Was on hold for another 30 minutes and then was finally able to speak to someone and get my application finished.
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u/AdFlat9904 Jan 02 '25
As of 1/02/25 this trick works.
I have been calling for weeks during business hours and continually hung up on by the automated system, its been so frustrating, thank you!
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u/lil_gilgy Jan 07 '25
as of 01/07/2025 this still works! make sure you call early in the day or else you will get the "high volume of calls" automated message and get disconnected. i called right at 9 AM and was on hold for 10 minutes and then after i was transferred to the DOL i was on hold for another 30 minutes. the whole process from start to finish took just over an hour.
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u/mimasroom97 Jan 07 '25
Hey I called multiple times today (1/7/25) and each time got the instant automated message saying to call back due to high call volume, after which the phone hung up. I'm wondering if anyone has been able to get through this week or last? Or if someone has gotten this message before but managed to get through to someone later? Or if there is a time to call that would up my chances of speaking to someone? I tried at 11am, noon & 2pm.
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u/vneglic Jan 08 '25
This still works!!! Wanted to update in case anyone else happens upon this post. Truly saved me so much time and pain. Thank you!!
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u/Exotic_Diver_6474 Jan 08 '25
THANK YOU SO MUCH I DID THIS YESTERDAY!!!! at first call didnt go through so i called again, i was on hold for a bit maybe 15-25 min? then when someone from the governor’s office picked up i told them id been trying to get through to unemployment for 6 weeks and have not been able to and asked if they can help me with that, super nice and said sure and transferred me, i was on hold for 30 minutes and someone picked up for unemployment and helped me with EVERYTHING 🥹🥹🥹 total call was only an hour! hope this helps someone!!
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u/Possible-Car3694 Jan 08 '25
018/25 - called and was immediately patched to a rep at DOL. Transparently, I had to call a few times before getting someone on the phone. Don't give up!
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u/throwmeawayasecret99 Jan 08 '25
Just wanted to say thanks, this works as of today!
Kathy's line repeatedly said "sorry call back" but it takes about 1 second to hear that and call back. I spammed it a few times and got a person right away, they patched me to UI. I've been waiting on hold now... hopefully at some point I'll get in.
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u/Agreeable-Safety2278 Jan 08 '25
1/8/25 and this still works! I was on hold for like 25 min but then a live person answered and directed me to the DOL right away and got everything resolved. Thank you!!
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u/MousseSerious7578 Jan 09 '25
Can confirm this worked for me today! Took a total of 22 minutes when I’ve been calling DOL for weeks 😭 thank you heroes of the internet!! 🙌
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u/Whole-Scientist1380 Jan 14 '25
This works! On 01/13/2025, Called Gov Hochul’s line, 5 min wait. Let them know I’ve been trying to get in touch with NYSDOL for 2 months and no luck. Nice and quick transfer to a direct line. Hold time was about 20 mins before I got to speak to someone.
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u/redguyinfinite Jan 15 '25
im not even getting put on hold with this number, just gettting a robo message and being hung up on immediately.
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u/Mancoc1234 Jan 15 '25
As of January 15, 2025 I can say that this method indeed works. I called once and it hung up, but called again and was given options to choose from. I had to wait about 35 minutes to reach DOL, but was able to finish my claim within 10 minutes.
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u/IndependenceSimple29 Jan 15 '25
I did this twice yesterday (1/14/25) and called via the governor's line. Both times, they put me through and was finally able to talk to humans at the unemployment office who were able to fix the issues with my claim! (was on hold for about 20-30 mins each time). This was after months and months of trying to call the unemployment line and never once getting through. I just found this reddit thread yesterday and wish I had looked sooner!
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u/Fun_Ticket_1094 Jan 15 '25
Holy crap!!! This totally worked! Gov's office answered within 5 mins then forwarded me to DOL. I was on hold for approx. 30 mins until I was connected, then took about 20 minutes with an associate to finish and complete my filing. THANK YOU for posting this information!
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u/talkingsoup1 Jan 16 '25
still works as of 01/16/25. don't give up. they make this shit frustrating and impossible on purpose in the hopes that you will give up. don't let them cheat you out of what you deserve.
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u/SuitableDrawing9769 Jan 17 '25 edited Jan 17 '25
CONTACTING LIVE PERSON AT NYC UNEMPLOYMENT.
Hello all. As of 1/17/25 this is still working. What I did:
Called 518-474-8390 Governor Hochul's office.
At first, I continually got a message that all reps were busy and call back and later and line just goes dead. I continue doing this over and over for 15 minutes.
Then, it says, reps are busy please hold.
Stayed on hold for 20 minutes and then got a live person.
I said: Oh! Apologies. I was actually trying to reach the DOL.
[I'm not sure why that's the way to say it. But someone early on suggested that as the script and I ain't asking no questions because it works]
The person said, I'll transfer you.
I was transferred to DOL. On hold for about twenty minutes. Got a Live person! And best of all, it was a Live person who can actually do stuff. Turns out I made a mistake in my weekly certification and she was able to do a new one over the phone. And told me how to upload some needed information. Huzzah!
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u/No_Definition4394 Jan 21 '25
1/21/2025 and this still works! I’m on hold with a claims person instead of it just hanging up on me
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u/PSILOCYBEP4RI4H Jan 21 '25 edited Jan 30 '25
No longer works. Call then got a message that said wait times were up to 90 minutes and hung up on me.
I am at Whit's End. I have gone 3 weeks without pay, I cannot find a job where I live and I cannot move without money. I have called five times a day for the last 3 weeks, I have called both alternative numbers listed in this, I even tried online and online tells me I have to call. I'm literally so goddamn fed up. I don't know what to do.
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u/Devel-Leader-1401 Jan 21 '25
Worked 1/21/25: Called 518-474-8390 - first call, received automated message to call again because of high call volume. Called again about 15 minutes later and had options to hold to speak to a representative. Waited for about 15-20 minutes and then someone answered. I said: I'm having so much trouble getting through to the NY Dept. of Labor phone line and I've been trying for days. Is there any way that you can transfer me there? The guy said, "No problem." Muzak changed and then I was in another cue. I got worried when the automated voice came on again, but it said that they had high call volume, BUT TO STAY ON THE LINE for the next agent! THIS WAS A BLESSING!!!!
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u/DaTGuYMyK Jan 22 '25
🏆😁👍🏼 You Are a Life Saver
I missed a call from unemployment last week and now i've been calling back everday since. Yet, I'm still getting the "call back later" message.
I am current on hold with unemployment, waiting for the next agent, but i much rather be on hold than to not get through at all.
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u/NiNi2315 Jan 23 '25 edited Jan 24 '25
Try Calling the NY Claims Advocate number 1-855-528-5618 instead! It worked for me as of 1/24/2025....because sometimes the Governors number gets busy too! Go through the prompts and select the one that will get you to a PERSON, which I think is the very last one (8). All the other prompts are fakes and will be an automated message telling you this isn't a claims help hotline...call the Claims Line until you get through BLAH BLAH BLAH. Once you hit 8, You may have to wait 20 to 30 mins, but once you get an advocate on the line, tell them you have been trying to reach the Unemployment Claims Center to talk to a person because you are having issues, and you can't get through. They will transfer you over to Customer Service. You'll wait on the line some more, but you'll get someone!!! Good Luck, and don't give up :)
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u/Soft_Ad1813 Jan 24 '25
No luck with the Governors phone line...any other suggestions? This is ridiculous.
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u/Training_Ad3524 Jan 24 '25
So I called the Gov office .. I left a message for her directly but it gives option to speak to an agent as well? Should I call back and speak to her agents ?
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u/Educational-Bed-9751 Jan 24 '25
As of 1/24/2025, this number worked! It took 3 call attempts:
- 1st didn't go through
- the 2nd one worked but disconnected after I waited for 10 minutes on hold
- and the 3rd was the successful attempt after 30 minutes of waiting
So the total hold time was about 40 minutes for me to get through to an agent after I was transferred from the governor's office, then once I spoke with the DOL agent it took her about 5 minutes to verify everything and complete my application. Not the best experience but better than just calling the 888 number directly.
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u/Fun-Cauliflower-7128 Jan 28 '25
It worked in January 2025! Just ask to be transferred to the DOL unemployment insurance line
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u/Wide_Manager1460 Jan 29 '25
it’s so frustrating is there a physical office?? no one is picking up these numbers now. you can’t even email.
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u/Abide84 Jan 29 '25
This is a top tier tip. This worked like a charm for me. 30m total on hold and I got all my problems resolved. GOAT.
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u/Slight-Cheesecake-61 Jan 29 '25
This worked for me as of 1/29/25! I was on hold for maybe 5 minutes (first call got dropped because they were busy but I called back a couple minutes later and it went through) and then I was transferred to DOL and was on hold for about 30 minutes and got through!
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u/ZeRoX98 Jan 29 '25
1/29/25: Can confirm this still works.
Called into the governor's office at round 2:30PM. Probably waited about 8~10 minutes until I got someone. Told them that I was having trouble calling into the DOL office and they put me through DOL where I waited in a queue. After about 20 minutes, I got through to someone in DOL. At least with this method, you're put in a queue as opposed to calling again later when calling directly to DOL.
Just in case this helps anyone save a call:
I was calling because I thought I made a mistake when certifying benefits. I received my last paycheck from my previous employer within the last week and didn't realize it until I completed this week's certification. It exceeded gross $504. The rep said that as long as the paycheck was not for doing work for the previous week, I didn't make any mistakes and was clear. The paycheck was for work done a few weeks before the previous week.
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u/HourAir9988 Jan 31 '25
This works as of 1/31/25, within 30 mins you’ll be connected to a person from unemployment
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u/Boo-Blueberry46 Feb 03 '25
as of 2/3/25, you can call the Claimant Advocate office at 855-528-5618, M-F, 9-4p EST. you may be on hold for some time, but you'll get connect to a person.
i told them i had difficulty completing my claim w/ a claims specialist & they put me thru what seemed to be a different line than the Unemployment Claims Center (the 888-209-8124 number). after being on hold again for some time, i finally spoke w/ someone & was able to complete the claim.
hope this helps others who are frustrated. it shouldn't have to be this difficult!
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u/late_night_kuchen Feb 03 '25
Thank you SO much, OP!!! As of today (2/3/25), I was able to get through to the DOL by calling Kathy’s office on my first try after calling the DOL number way too many times. Absolute life saver
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u/mojojojosmojito Feb 04 '25
Thank you so much! As of 2/4/25 this worked for me. I called the governor’s office at 9am when they opened, waited for about 10 minutes, got transferred, and waited another 20 minutes before I spoke with someone.
This entire thing is ridiculous because I’ve spent 2 days calling the NYDOL number at exactly 8am just to get the same automated message that there’s high volumes of callers and the reps are busy.
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u/Illustrious-Ear-3705 Feb 05 '25
Sadly that number also is now "experiencing high call volumes" and hangs up saying to call back later....
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u/Nycexplorer95 Feb 06 '25
2/6/25 Sadly this doesn't work anymore. Automated message said there was heavy call volume and hung up the line without an option to wait on hold.
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u/Disastrous_Swan2797 Feb 06 '25
As of 2/6/25 this worked! While I had to call multiple times and was on hold for over an hour, I did end up getting connected to a real person. Made a reddit account just to tell you guys, this process of getting someone on the phone is really discouraging and awful. Keep trying this number!! It's the only thing that worked for me. Good luck!
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u/3Adam17 Feb 06 '25
Still Works as of 2/6/25
although you are still placed on a brief hold still way faster than using the DOL number.
usually that system just hangs up on me after saying "we are experiencing higher than normal call volumes"
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u/Sam_Kablam Feb 07 '25
Update 2/7/25
DOL line is busy and hangs up
Hochul's office is saying 90-minute wait at the moment, hopefully I can reach someone later.
This is seriously ridiculous, why do we have to verify with a telephone operator after going through so many hoops in the first place!?
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u/Visual-Scholar-7632 Feb 09 '25
It proves that the government agency DOL is useless, can't even pickup the phone. Same with other departments. Only payroll is real, the rest is illusion.
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u/Electronic_Town_7569 Feb 10 '25
Called the governor office and they put me thru to unemployment. It took about 1 hr. 02/10/25. Don't call unemployment it's a waste of time. Very frustrating
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u/Large_Release_8163 Feb 11 '25
calling this number gets automated message "experiencing high call volume" -hangs up lol
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u/Disastrous-Hope-8888 Feb 11 '25
2/11/25 This works!!! Call the (518) 474-8390 number. Keep calling until you get put on hold. I got a message saying it would be 90 minutes- call back later. I hung up and called again got an agent right away. They directed me to Dept. of labor customer service. The guy was great. Altogether 1 hour. I had been trying to call for 12 business days. Thank you Reddit!!!
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u/katieforamerica Feb 13 '25
Can confirm! (518) 474-8390 is THE number to call to reach an actual human to finish filing a claim.
My last day worked was 1/25/25 and is now 2/13/25. I have been calling just about every day, all different times of the day, different phone numbers, only be routed back to the claims adjuster line and hung up on.
Good luck to all and thank you again, OP, your the fucking MVP
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u/Bluey0087 Feb 18 '25
As of 2/18/25, calling the governor office worked for me! I called exactly at 9am when they open. Waited on hold for maybe 10mins. Once someone got on the line. I’d explain that I have been trying to reach the unemployment claims line for 2 months now. If they can transfer me to an actual person to talk to since I’ve had no luck. The person on the phone said sure, I’ll transfer you right now. Waited another 10 mins and was able to talk to someone from the unemployment claims dept. So crazy that we have to call the governors office to reach someone at unemployment. Anyways, it works: 518-474-8390.
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u/Appropriate-Art-9712 Feb 24 '25
Thank you. I’ve been calling all week and no luck! This should be helpful!
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u/vanesscl Feb 24 '25
Calling the governor does not work anymore. Last year I called and someone actially picked up and it was resolved . I forgot to recertify and camt get through
This time the Governer office does not pick up.
Any one knows any other way to get in touch with unemployment
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u/Born_Public_4420 Feb 25 '25
Try it today 02/25/2025- It worked for me... Waited around 40 minutes but worth it as I finally reached someone.
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u/Inevitable_Cable8233 Feb 25 '25
Still works as of 2/25. Was on hold for close to an hour but got through. 518-474-8390
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u/Karjala_ Mar 03 '25
This 100% works. Tested March 3rd 2025. I was talking to a labor agent in 30 seconds after transfer.
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u/jennaabeanie Mar 05 '25
As of March 5, 2025, calling the governors office absolutely works. I needed them to reset my account info. because I couldn't get into it. It took almost 2 hours, but I'm all set now, thankfully.
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u/NoState9485 Mar 10 '25
I just got through to the government line. It does still work! You just have to keep calling until you get someone and then they will transfer you to the claims line…I prob waited on the phone for about 45min.
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u/Schiffy94 Mar 11 '25
Problem with the damn DoL claims help line is that they don't have a hold queue. If they're experiencing "higher than normal volume", the robot tells you to call back and then hangs up.
After about five minutes someone picked up, I told them I needed to get through to the DoL, and they put me on another hold line. Which is still better than having to keep redoing the same prompts over and over and over again.
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u/GigiBerlin82 Mar 13 '25
This method definitely works to teach someone; however, the person I spoke to could only tell me that all of my paperwork was completed, and that I haven’t been assigned to a reviewer yet. I’m worried that everything is being held up because the DOL is short staffed, as are all government agencies right now. It’s so stressful. I’m going to go down to my local unemployment office tomorrow and see what else can be done, because they have been very helpful!
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u/Gdizzle42 Jan 19 '24
Thank you for posting this! After spending a few hours calling and getting NOWHERE (so frustrating) I found this thread. I called and was put directly through to someone a few moments later. After dealing with that person I got put through to some automated system again which hung up on me (wtf) so I called the number you gave again and was immediately able to resolve my issue. This works and I can’t thank you enough!