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I had the exact same confusion when I first started my claim! Pennsylvania did switch to weekly filing, and it can definitely be overwhelming when you realize you've been doing it wrong. Here's what helped me when I was in your situation: First, don't panic - this is actually a pretty common mistake and the UC reps deal with it regularly. When you do get through to someone (definitely try that Claimyr service others mentioned), be honest about the confusion and they're usually willing to work with you. One thing I learned is that you can sometimes see if there are claimable weeks available by logging into your UC dashboard and checking if any weeks show as "available to claim." If they're there, you might be able to file for them directly without needing to call. Also, make sure you switch to filing every Sunday going forward - I set a recurring phone reminder so I wouldn't forget. The weekly system actually works better once you get used to it because you get paid faster than the old biweekly system. Keep all your documentation ready (work searches, any earnings, etc.) in case they ask for it when you're getting those missed weeks sorted out. You've got this!
This is such great advice, thank you! I really appreciate you taking the time to explain everything so clearly. I'm definitely going to check my UC dashboard first to see if those weeks are available to claim before I try calling. Setting a weekly reminder is a brilliant idea too - I can't believe I didn't think of that! It's reassuring to hear that this is a common mistake and that the reps are usually understanding about it. I was so worried I had completely ruined my claim, but everyone here has been so helpful in explaining what to do next.
Just wanted to share my experience since I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago! I was also filing biweekly thinking that was still the correct schedule, and missed several weeks before realizing PA had switched to weekly filing. Here's what worked for me: I logged into my UC dashboard first and found that I could actually file for 2 of the missed weeks directly online without needing to call. For the older weeks, I did have to contact them through Claimyr (which really does work - got through in about 30 minutes on my second try). The rep was super helpful and didn't make me feel stupid for the mistake. She explained that when they switched from biweekly to weekly, they grandfathered some people in gradually, which caused confusion. She was able to backdate 4 weeks for me after I explained the situation. Pro tip: When you call, mention that you've been actively job searching and keeping records the whole time - they want to know you weren't just ignoring your responsibilities. Also, they asked me to verify some information from my original claim, so have that paperwork handy if possible. Don't stress too much about this - it's way more common than you think! The weekly system is actually better once you get used to it.
For your appeal, focus on two key arguments: 1) Why you were actually eligible for benefits during that period (if you believe you were), and 2) Why requiring repayment would cause financial hardship even if they determine you weren't eligible. For the waiver request form, you can call UC or check online. Keep in mind that for a non-fraud determination, they've already established you didn't intentionally do anything wrong, which puts you in a much better position for both the appeal and waiver.
Just wanted to add one more important point - make sure you keep paying attention to any deadlines even while your appeal is pending. Sometimes PA UC will send additional notices or requests for information during the appeal process, and missing those deadlines can hurt your case. Also, if your appeal gets denied, you typically have another 15 days to file for a Board of Review hearing, so don't give up if the first appeal doesn't go your way. The fact that it's marked as non-fraud gives you a really good chance with the waiver, so stay positive! Keep us updated on how it goes.
this happened to my cousin and the hearing people were actually really nice! don't stress too much, just be honest and have your proof ready. UC system is annoying but the actual referees are usually fair from what I've heard
I went through a similar second appeal last year in PA and want to share what worked for me. The key thing is that your employer has the burden of proof to show why their new appeal should overturn the previous decision. Since you have that county dismissal letter dated February 10th (before you even filed), you're in a really strong position. A few practical tips: 1) Submit your evidence early by fax like others mentioned, 2) During the hearing, let the referee ask questions rather than over-explaining, 3) Stick strictly to the facts about the county case timeline, and 4) Have a backup phone ready in case your main line has issues. For the paystub situation - that's completely separate from your appeal and just standard verification since you started working. Upload them through the dashboard under "Additional Documentation" and you'll be fine there. The waiting is the worst part, but you have solid documentation on your side. Keep filing your weekly claims until told otherwise!
Update: Just wanted to let everyone know that my payments hit my Money Network card today - exactly 8 days after winning the appeal! All my back payments came at once. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help and advice.
That's fantastic news Sofia! 8 days is pretty reasonable all things considered. I'm currently waiting on my appeal decision (should hear back any day now) and this gives me hope that if I win, I won't be waiting forever for the payments. Did you get any kind of notification before the money hit your card, or did it just show up? Also wondering if the back payments came as one lump sum or broken out by week?
CyberSiren
I just wanted to add another perspective for anyone else who might find this thread later - I had a similar "quashed as moot" situation but mine took a bit longer to resolve. Even though my status changed to eligible, there was still a small delay because they had to process several weeks of backpay. Don't panic if you don't see money immediately! Also, make sure to save that referee decision letter - I needed mine later when I was doing my taxes to show the dates my benefits were approved. The whole PA UC system really needs better communication, but it sounds like yours worked out exactly as it should. Keep us posted on when your payments start coming through!
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GalacticGuru
•Thank you for mentioning the tax documentation aspect - I hadn't even thought about that! I'll definitely save all these letters. It's reassuring to know that even if there are small delays with the backpay processing, that's normal. I'm just so relieved to finally have some clarity after weeks of confusion. The PA UC system really does need to work on their communication - using plain English instead of legal jargon would save everyone so much stress and confusion!
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Andre Dupont
I'm so glad I found this thread! I'm dealing with something similar right now - got denied initially because my employer claimed misconduct, but I have documentation proving otherwise. Filed my appeal two weeks ago and have been anxiously waiting for my hearing date. Reading all these responses gives me hope that maybe they'll review the evidence I submitted and resolve it before the hearing like they did for you. The PA UC appeals process is so nerve-wracking when you're already dealing with job loss stress. Thanks everyone for breaking down what "quashed as moot" actually means - I'll know what to look for if I get a similar letter!
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