I've been using Credit Karma for about 2 years now for various direct deposits (work, tax refunds, etc.) and it's been solid. That said, after reading through all these responses, I'm definitely leaning toward using my traditional bank account for UC instead. It sounds like while Credit Karma/MVB Bank might technically work, the risk of delays just isn't worth it when you're depending on those unemployment payments. I had a friend who used Varo (another online bank) for her UC claim and ended up having to switch to paper checks after the direct deposit failed twice - took her almost a month longer to get her money. The advice about having a backup account ready is spot on. Even if you want to try Credit Karma first, definitely have those traditional bank account details handy in case you need to make a quick switch. Better to be overprepared than dealing with payment delays when you really need the funds!

I actually had a similar dilemma when I was setting up my unemployment benefits earlier this year. I ended up going with my regular Chase account instead of my Credit Karma account, and I'm so glad I did after reading about everyone's experiences here. What really helped me make the decision was thinking about it this way: unemployment benefits are literally a lifeline when you need them most. The last thing you want is ANY chance of delays or complications with getting those payments. Sure, Credit Karma might work fine, but even if there's just a 10% chance of issues, that's not a risk worth taking when you're depending on that money for rent and groceries. I'd definitely echo what others have said - use a traditional bank account if you have one available. The peace of mind alone is worth it. And if you don't have a traditional bank account, it might be worth opening a basic checking account just for this purpose. Most major banks have free options that would work perfectly for UC direct deposit.

This whole thread is super helpful! I'm in a similar situation where I'm waiting on back payments but mine shows a pay date for next Tuesday. Based on everyone's experience here, sounds like I should expect to see the funds Wednesday morning at the earliest. It's reassuring to know that when it shows "paid" status, the money is actually on its way. The waiting game is definitely nerve-wracking when you're counting on those funds, but at least now I have realistic expectations for timing.

I just went through this exact same thing last week! Had a Friday pay date and was refreshing my bank app all weekend like crazy. The money showed up Monday morning around 7:30am. One thing I learned is that some banks will actually show pending deposits in your account over the weekend even if they don't officially post until Monday - might be worth checking if your bank has that feature. It at least gives you peace of mind that it's coming. The "paid" status on the UC dashboard is definitely the key indicator that everything went through properly on their end.

my benefit year ended in february and when i filed a new claim they made me wait like 3 weeks while they "processed" it even tho nothing changed in my situation. just be ready for that bs

Just went through this exact same situation last month! You're totally fine to file for that final week since your benefit year ends on Saturday (the 11th) and PA UC weeks run Sunday-Saturday. I was panicking too but got my full payment for the last week. Pro tip: Set a reminder to file your new application literally the day after your benefit year ends (Sunday the 12th). I waited a few days and it caused delays in processing. The sooner you get that new claim in, the better. Good luck!

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now too! My employer put me on "administrative leave" for budget reasons and PA UC initially approved me, then reversed it saying I'm still technically employed. It's so confusing because I'm not getting paid either! I've been reading through all these comments and it seems like the appeal process is really important. @Elijah Jackson - definitely keep filing those weekly claims like Mason mentioned, and gather all that documentation about the leave being mandatory. The fact that they said you were "selected" for leave instead of requesting it should really help your case. Good luck with your appeal!

I just went through this exact same situation a few months ago! The Pennsylvania UC system is so confusing with how they handle leaves of absence. What really helped me was getting my employer to provide a detailed letter explaining that the leave was "employer-initiated" rather than "employee-requested." I also made sure to include any documentation showing I had no input in the decision - like meeting notes or emails where they informed me (not asked me) about the leave. The appeal process took about 8 weeks but I eventually got approved and received backpay for all the weeks I had been filing. Don't let the confusing paperwork discourage you - if your employer truly forced this leave due to restructuring, you have a strong case. Make sure to emphasize in your appeal that you were available and willing to work but your employer made you unavailable through no fault of your own.

did u make sure to look for work? they won't pay if u don't do the work search activities each week. i forgot to do it one week and they stopped my payments

This whole system is so frustrating! Just when you think everything is fine, employers can throw a wrench in the works with these bogus appeals. In my experience, even after an appeal is withdrawn, there's almost always some kind of delay. The UC system seems designed to make it as difficult as possible to get benefits we're entitled to. I would not just sit back and wait. Keep calling, check your portal daily, and document everything. And definitely follow up if you don't see movement in a few days.