UPDATE: I got through to someone at UC using that Claimyr service. They were actually really helpful and explained that the referee will make a decision within 14 days typically. The agent noted my file with an explanation of why I missed the hearing. They also said I should immediately file for reopening once I get the decision if it's not in my favor. Just wanted to update everyone and say thanks for all the advice!

Hang in there Ruby! I went through almost the exact same situation in 2022. I also thought "phone hearing" meant they'd call me, but it turned out I needed to call THEM at a specific number during the hearing time. The confusion is totally understandable because the notices aren't super clear about this. When I missed mine, the referee took about 12 days to decide and unfortunately ruled against me since I was a no-show. BUT - and this is important - I filed the reopening request immediately after getting the decision letter and explained the confusion about the hearing format. They granted the reopening and I got a second hearing where I was able to present my case properly and won! The key is acting fast once you get that decision letter. Don't beat yourself up too much - this happens to more people than you'd think. Keep checking your mail and be ready to file that reopening request right away if needed.

After trying everything people suggested here, I finally got through using Claimyr today! The agent confirmed my claim was stuck in their "state wage investigation" queue and needed manual processing. They expedited it and said I should see payments within 7-10 days. Will update if the money actually shows up. Thanks for all the suggestions everyone!

I'm dealing with a similar situation but from a different angle - I'm a former state employee who just started the UC process after seeing all these horror stories. Should I be doing anything proactively to avoid getting stuck in this limbo? Like calling that HR Service Center number right away or making sure my claim is flagged properly? I worked for the Department of Health and my last day was two weeks ago. Really don't want to end up in the same 5-month nightmare you're going through!

One additional thing to consider - in your weekly certifications, make sure you're consistently reporting your job search activities. Even though you haven't been paid yet, failing to report the required job search activities could lead to disqualification for those specific weeks. PA requires at least one application and one work search activity weekly. This is especially important for contested claims like yours, as they will scrutinize everything if they're looking for reasons to deny benefits. Also, if you haven't already, check to make sure your payment method is properly set up in the system. Once your claim is approved, payment will be directed to whatever payment method you have on file. Some people discover after approval that their banking information was incorrect or their Money Network debit card address was wrong, causing further delays.

I'm so sorry you're going through this nightmare - 5 months without income is absolutely devastating. I went through something similar in 2022 when I was fired while on medical leave, though mine only took about 3 months to resolve. A few things that helped me during the wait: 1. Document your financial hardship thoroughly - keep records of all bills, notices, etc. This can help if you get a chance to request expedited processing 2. Check with your local 211 service (dial 2-1-1) for emergency assistance programs in your area 3. If you have any union representation or know an employment attorney, sometimes they can make calls on your behalf that carry more weight 4. Consider reaching out to local news stations - they sometimes do stories on UC delays that can put pressure on the system The backpay situation is real though - when I finally got approved, I received about $8,000 all at once covering the months I waited. It was overwhelming but such a relief. Hang in there and keep fighting - you're doing everything right by continuing to file weekly and staying persistent.

This is such a valuable thread for anyone dealing with PA UC determination letters! I went through something similar a few months ago and those letters really are terrifying when you first get them. The key thing to remember is that PA UC evaluates each week individually for eligibility, so a disqualification for backdated weeks doesn't automatically disqualify you from future benefits. One thing I'd add is to keep detailed records of all your work search activities and weekly certifications during this time. Even though your current claim is processing normally now, having good documentation can save you headaches if any questions come up later. The PA system can be unpredictable and it's always better to have more documentation than you think you need. Great job following up with the update too - it really helps other community members who might be in similar situations!

I'm so relieved to see this thread! I just got a similar determination letter today for some backdated weeks and was absolutely panicking when I saw that huge "NOT ELIGIBLE" at the top. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been incredibly reassuring - it sounds like PA UC really needs to redesign these letters to be clearer about what they actually mean. I'm definitely going to keep filing my current weekly claims and make sure I stay on top of my work search requirements. It's crazy how confusing they make this process when people are already stressed about being unemployed. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences, especially @Mateo Martinez for the update that your payment went through - that gives me hope that mine will too!

Based on everything you've shared, you're definitely doing the right thing by submitting the UC-2B form. Since your employer has confirmed they reported your wages to PA, and you have documentation, it's likely just a system error or mismatch. Interstate claims do take longer, but 3 months is excessive. A wage investigation should resolve this within 2-4 weeks. One thing to consider while waiting: check if you qualify for other emergency assistance programs. Your local Ohio county assistance office might have emergency rental assistance or other programs to help with bills in the meantime.

I'm dealing with something similar right now - working in PA but living in NJ. Haven't been waiting as long as you (only about 6 weeks) but getting the same runaround. One thing that helped me was getting my employer to send me a copy of their UC-2 quarterly report that shows my wages AND their PA employer account number. When I called PA UC (took forever to get through), having that specific account number seemed to help them locate my records faster. Also, if you haven't already, try calling first thing Monday morning right at 8 AM - that's when I finally got through. Hang in there, this system is brutal but you will get your backpay once it's resolved.