I went through something very similar about 6 months ago - got denied for "transportation issues" when my car was in the shop for a week. What really helped me win my appeal was creating a detailed timeline showing: 1. Exact dates my car broke down and when it was repaired 2. Screenshots of bus routes from my address to at least 5-10 job locations I'd applied to 3. A sworn statement that I was willing to use rideshare/public transit for work The referee seemed most interested in seeing that I had actually researched realistic transportation alternatives rather than just saying "I'll figure it out." I also brought up jobs I'd applied to that were specifically accessible by bus during that time period. The whole appeal took about 7 weeks from filing to getting the decision, but I got all my backpay eventually. Stay strong - these transportation denials are really common but very winnable if you show you were genuinely able to work despite the car issue.

I'm dealing with a very similar situation right now! Got denied after being honest about temporary car trouble during a phone interview. Reading through everyone's advice here is giving me so much hope - especially seeing that multiple people have successfully won these transportation-related appeals. I'm definitely going to follow the suggestions about getting a mechanic's letter, documenting bus routes, and creating that timeline showing this was just a temporary issue. It's so frustrating that they twist honesty against you, but at least the appeal process seems more fair than dealing with the regular UC staff. Has anyone here had experience with how long it typically takes to get the hearing scheduled? I just filed my appeal yesterday and I'm worried about how long I'll be waiting without any income.

Glad to hear your roommate got it resolved! For anyone else reading this thread with similar issues, here's a quick summary of options for payment/card problems with PA unemployment: 1. Call Money Network directly: 888-233-5916 for card issues 2. Use Claimyr to reach PA UC agents for claim/payment problems 3. Visit a local CareerLink office in person 4. Contact your state representative's office 5. Request address verification if payments are returned Also, it's good practice to set up direct deposit if possible through the PA UC portal once you have access, as it's generally more reliable than the card system.

As someone who works in social services, I want to add that if anyone is facing eviction or urgent financial hardship while waiting for UC payments, there are emergency assistance programs that can help bridge the gap. Many counties in PA have emergency rental assistance funds, and 211 (dial 2-1-1) can connect you to local resources for food banks, utility assistance, and emergency housing support. Don't wait until you're actually evicted - these programs often have waiting lists, so apply early. Also, document all your UC communication attempts as this proof of delayed benefits can sometimes help expedite emergency aid applications.

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - been on FMLA for 7 months due to a chronic condition and my employer is starting to make noises about my position. Reading through all these responses has been really eye-opening about the "able and available" requirement. One thing I wanted to add is that if you do get approved for UC benefits, make sure you understand Pennsylvania's work search requirements. Even with medical restrictions, you'll still need to apply to jobs and document your search activities. I've been researching remote/work-from-home positions in case my situation goes the same direction as yours. Also, don't forget to ask your HR department about COBRA for health insurance continuation - losing your job means losing your employer health coverage, and with ongoing medical issues, you'll definitely want to keep that going even though it's expensive. Hope things work out for you! This whole system is so confusing when you're already dealing with health problems.

Just wanted to share my experience from last year - I was terminated after 9 months of medical leave for a spine injury. Initially got denied for UC because I couldn't lift over 10 pounds, but my appeal was successful after my doctor wrote a detailed letter explaining I could do desk work, customer service, data entry, etc. The key was being very specific about what I COULD do rather than focusing on what I couldn't. My doctor's letter listed specific job functions I was cleared for, and I had to show PA UC that I was actively applying for those types of positions. A few practical tips: - Get your medical documentation ready BEFORE you apply - Research job openings in your area that match your restrictions - Keep detailed records of every application you submit - Be prepared for the process to take 6-8 weeks with appeals Also, definitely look into your state's temporary disability programs and see if your employer offers any severance or extended benefits. Sometimes companies will provide a transition period especially for long-term employees. Wishing you the best - this situation is stressful enough without having to navigate the bureaucracy!

UPDATE: Transaction number appeared this morning! Only took 2 business days after the payment date showed up. Thanks for all the helpful comments - definitely reduced my anxiety. My Money Network card has been inactive for so long I had to call and reset the PIN, but everything's good to go now. This feels like a huge weight off my shoulders.

Congratulations on your successful appeal! 🎉 It sounds like everything is moving along perfectly - seeing both the payment date AND getting the transaction number within just 2 business days is exactly how it should work. Don't forget to check that your Money Network card is active and ready to receive the funds. Sometimes people forget their PINs after months of inactivity (sounds like you already handled that though!). You should see the money hit your card within the next 1-2 days. What a relief this must be after 6 weeks of fighting!

Congratulations on winning your appeal! That must have been such a huge relief after 2 months of stress. Based on what others have shared here, it seems like most people get their payments within 1-2 weeks, though there's definitely some variation. The fact that your status already changed to 'eligible' is a really good sign - that usually happens pretty quickly after the decision. I'd expect to see those weeks flip from 'appeal pending' to 'payable' in the next few days, and then the actual payment should follow shortly after. Hang in there, you're almost at the finish line! And definitely keep filing your weekly certifications like others mentioned.

Congratulations on your victory! That feeling of relief after months of stress must be incredible. From what I've seen in this community, the Pennsylvania UC system can be frustratingly inconsistent with payment timing after appeals. Some folks get their money in under a week, while others wait 2-3 weeks or more. The good news is that your status already changed to 'eligible' - that's usually the first domino to fall. Keep an eye on those individual weeks switching from 'appeal pending' to 'payable' over the next few days. Once that happens, payment typically follows within 24-48 hours. In the meantime, definitely keep filing your weekly certifications and try not to stress too much about the exact timing. You've already won the hard part! If you don't see any movement after 10 business days, that's when I'd consider reaching out to them directly.