thx for update. my hubby still waiting at 5 weeks now. gonna try calling again tomorrow

Wow, what a journey! I'm so glad you finally got answers and that it's getting resolved. This is such a perfect example of why the PA UC system is so frustrating - having hidden issues that don't show up on the dashboard is just ridiculous. It's crazy that you had to use a third-party service just to get through to someone who could actually see what was wrong with the claim. For anyone else reading this who's dealing with similar delays - Connor's story really shows the importance of actually talking to a rep instead of just waiting and hoping. Sometimes there really are issues that aren't visible to us but are blocking the whole process. Thanks for coming back to update us - it gives the rest of us hope that these things can get sorted out!

For anyone dealing with this in the future: The key thing with temporary or one-off work is to make sure you indicate in the weekly claim that this is NOT a return to full-time work. There's a question specifically asking if you've returned to full-time work - make sure you answer 'No' if that's the case. Sometimes the investigation is triggered because of how those questions were answered rather than the fact that you worked at all.

This is exactly why the UC system needs reform. You did everything right by reporting honestly, but the system punishes people for transparency. I went through something similar last year - picked up two days of freelance work and reported it properly, then waited 5 weeks for them to "investigate" $150 in earnings. The frustrating part is they give you no timeline or updates during the process. You just have to keep filing weekly claims and hope they eventually release everything. At least you got it resolved! For others reading this, definitely keep calling daily if you're stuck - persistence is unfortunately the only way to get through to someone who can actually help.

my cousin got disqualifed back in 2023 and it took him 2 months just to get a hearing. then he ended up winning but it was so stressful. make sure u have all ur paperwork ready when u finally get the hearing date!!!!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! Got disqualified 2 weeks ago for "voluntary quit" even though I was clearly laid off due to budget cuts. Still haven't received my determination letter either. Reading all these responses is both helpful and terrifying - sounds like we're in for months of stress. I already filed my appeal online yesterday just to be safe, and I've been keeping up with my weekly claims. The whole system seems designed to exhaust people into giving up. Stay strong and don't let them wear you down! We've got to keep fighting for what we're entitled to.

They typically don't contact employers during the session itself, but PA UC does conduct random audits where they may verify your work search activities afterward. This is why it's crucial to have accurate information about where you applied, when, and the method of application (online, in-person, etc.). As long as you've been honest in your applications, you have nothing to worry about. One tip: After your RESEA session, continue logging into PA CareerLink regularly (at least once a week) as sometimes they monitor this activity as part of your ongoing eligibility requirements.

Just wanted to add that if you're in the restaurant/hospitality industry like I was, they'll likely discuss how your skills transfer to other sectors during the RESEA session. I went through one last month after my hotel closed, and the counselor helped me realize that my management experience could apply to retail, customer service, or even administrative roles I hadn't considered before. They also mentioned some quick certification programs that might boost my chances. It ended up being way more helpful than I expected - I actually got connected to a job lead through their system that I'm interviewing for next week! Don't stress too much about it, just be prepared and honest about what you've been doing for your job search.

Just wanted to share my recent experience to help with your timeline expectations! I won my appeal for backdated benefits in February and received my backpay exactly 9 business days later. The total was around $4,200 for 7 weeks. Like others mentioned, it came in two separate deposits - first deposit had 4 weeks, then the remaining 3 weeks showed up 2 days later on my Money Network card. Regarding the waiting week issue - definitely call immediately! I had the exact same problem where they applied a second waiting week to my backdated period even though I'd already served one. The rep was able to fix it during the call by adding the "Waiting Week Served" status code to that week. It added an extra $400 to my backpay. Pro tip: Call first thing Monday morning around 8:05 AM - that's when I had the best luck getting through without waiting forever. Good luck with everything!

Congrats on winning your appeal! Based on my experience and what I've seen others go through, here's what you can expect: For timing, most people see their backpay within 10-14 business days after the appeal decision. Mine took exactly 12 days and came as two separate deposits (which is totally normal for larger amounts like yours). Definitely call about that waiting week ASAP - you're absolutely right that you shouldn't have two in the same benefit year. When you call, be very specific and say "I already served my waiting week in January 2025 and should not have a second waiting week applied to my backdated claim period." Have your determination letter handy with the dates. One thing I learned the hard way - keep filing your weekly claims while waiting for the backpay to process, and check your dashboard daily for any new issues that might pop up requiring verification. Sometimes they hold up large backpay amounts if there are any unresolved items on your account. The money will go directly to your Money Network card, so make sure it's active and your address is current with them. Hope this helps and you get everything sorted out quickly!