Just wanted to jump in here as someone who went through this nightmare last summer as a school maintenance worker! The system is definitely confusing but you CAN get the exemption. Few things that helped me: 1) Don't waste time trying to recover old passwords - the system changed and you'll need to create a new account anyway. 2) That formal letter on letterhead is CRUCIAL - I initially tried with just an email from my boss and it didn't work. 3) Even with the exemption, you still have to do your weekly certifications, you just won't see job search requirements. One tip nobody mentioned - if you're having trouble reaching UC by phone, try calling right at 8am when they open. I got through on the second ring doing that. The afternoon is absolutely hopeless. Also check if your school district has a specific person who handles UC paperwork - ours does and she knew exactly what forms to send to the state. Saved me hours of headache!

As a school secretary who's been through this process multiple times, I can confirm everything everyone's saying about getting that formal recall letter! One thing I'd add - make sure the letter specifically mentions your exact return date AND that it's "reasonable assurance" of employment. Those are the magic words PA UC looks for. I learned this the hard way when my first letter just said "will return in fall" and they denied my exemption. Had to get HR to rewrite it with "reasonable assurance of return on August 20, 2024" and boom, exemption approved within a week. Also, @Aisha Abdullah for your login issues - I'd honestly just start fresh with a new account using the same SSN. The old system was completely different and trying to recover those credentials is like banging your head against a wall. The new system will recognize you've filed before and link everything up automatically. You got this!

anyone else notice the money network app is down like half the time when ur actually trying to check ur balance??? so frustrating!!!!

Update us when you get your payment! I'm curious if weekend processing times have improved since I was on UC last year.

I'm going through something very similar right now as a new per diem medical assistant! Just finished my certification and got hired at a clinic, but my hours are all over the place during this probationary period - some weeks I get 25 hours, others just 12. The whole UC filing situation has me so stressed because I feel like I'm damned if I do, damned if I don't. What's been helpful for me is treating the job search requirement as a way to build a network of backup opportunities rather than looking for jobs to replace my current one. I've been applying to other per diem positions at different medical offices that could work around my current schedule, and also looking into weekend-only opportunities at urgent care centers. This way I'm technically meeting the work search requirements while actually trying to supplement my current income rather than replace my job. One thing I learned from calling the UC office (finally got through after using that Claimyr service someone mentioned) is that they really do expect you to keep filing as long as you're not consistently full-time, even if you love your current job. The rep told me that per diem workers are considered "underemployed" rather than "unemployed" which is why we still qualify for partial benefits but have to keep looking for additional work. It's frustrating that the system doesn't account for people who are happy with flexible work arrangements, but at least now I understand the rules better. Hang in there - sounds like we're all figuring this out together!

I'm a new per diem physical therapy assistant and this thread has been SO helpful! I've been struggling with the same confusion about UC requirements while working variable hours. What really resonates with me is how the system seems designed for traditional employment and doesn't account for healthcare workers who genuinely want flexible schedules. One thing I've discovered that might help others is that many hospitals and rehab facilities are always looking for weekend coverage or holiday shifts. I've been applying to these types of positions as part of my work search requirements, and it actually makes sense for my career goals too - more facilities means more experience and better networking opportunities in the field. I also wanted to mention that I've found success using indeed.com's "weekends only" filter when searching for supplemental positions. This way I'm meeting the job search requirements while genuinely looking for work that complements rather than competes with my current per diem role. The documentation advice from everyone here is spot on - I started keeping screenshots and a simple Google doc tracking all my activities after reading these responses. It gives me so much peace of mind knowing I have everything organized if questions ever come up. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences! It's reassuring to know we're not alone in navigating this confusing system.

btw if u worked at a school have u tried applying at daycares or afterschool programs?? they always need people with experience working w/ kids and it might be easier to get in there vs regular office jobs esp if u have special needs experience

I'm new to this community but wanted to share something that might help while you're job searching. Since you have experience with special needs students, you might want to look into home health aide or personal care assistant positions. Many families need support workers for children or adults with disabilities, and your school district experience would be valuable. Companies like Comfort Keepers, Home Instead, and Visiting Angels are often hiring. The pay is usually decent and some offer flexible scheduling. Also, don't forget to check with your local Area Agency on Aging - they sometimes have listings for disability support services. Hope this helps and good luck with your job search!

Thanks everyone for your help! I finally got through to someone at the UC office (used that Claimyr service someone mentioned - it actually worked!). The rep confirmed what most of you said - once I hit 26 weeks, that's it for this benefit year regardless of remaining balance. However, she did say that since I worked for those 6 weeks during my current benefit year, I can file a new application after my benefits end next week. Whether I qualify will depend on if I earned enough during those 6 weeks (about 6x my weekly benefit rate across at least 6 credit weeks). She ran some preliminary numbers and thinks I might just barely qualify, but she said I need to wait until after my current benefits officially exhaust before applying. So fingers crossed that works out! I have an interview next week too, so hopefully something comes through. Thanks again for all your help and advice!

Wow, this is exactly the situation I'm worried about facing in a few months! I'm currently on week 18 of my benefits and still have about $3,200 left in my maximum benefit amount. It's so frustrating to think that money might just disappear if I can't find work in the next 8 weeks. @CosmicCrusader - really glad you were able to get through to someone and that you might qualify for a new claim! That gives me some hope. I've been doing some freelance work here and there during my benefit year, so maybe I'll be in a similar boat. Has anyone else here successfully filed a new claim after exhausting their weeks but not their dollar amount? I'd love to hear about your experience with the process and what documentation they needed.