One important thing to note: if you're approaching your benefit exhaustion, make sure you keep filing your weekly claims even for the week you receive your final payment. Sometimes people stop filing when benefits run out, but if any extensions are authorized later, you need unbroken weekly claims to qualify automatically. Also, your RESEA participation should have connected you with enhanced job placement services - be sure to follow up with that program coordinator specifically.

Hey Jamal, I went through something similar in 2023 after my factory job ended. One thing that really helped me was signing up with temp agencies that specialize in manufacturing - they often have short-term assignments that can tide you over while you search for permanent work. Places like Aerotek, Kelly Services, and Manpower usually have industrial positions that pay decent wages. Even if it's just a few weeks here and there, it gives you income and keeps your skills sharp. Also, don't overlook utility companies and hospitals - they often need maintenance staff with manufacturing backgrounds and the pay is usually solid. I know it's scary when benefits are running out, but you've got experience and that certificate from RESEA, so hang in there!

Update: Just wanted to let everyone know I finally got my determination letter in the mail today! It took exactly 17 days after the hearing. The referee ruled in my favor! Now I'm just waiting for the payments to hit my account. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and advice!

Congrats Jamal! That's such great news and gives me hope for everyone else still waiting. 17 days is right in that sweet spot everyone was mentioning. Thanks for coming back to update us - so many people post their questions but never follow up with the outcome. Hope your payments come through quickly!

Based on what everyone has shared, it seems like your best options are: 1. Contact the Referee Office directly using the number on your hearing notice 2. If you can't get through, try calling the UC Service Center (though this can be difficult) 3. Check if any documents may have been mailed separately or sent to an old address 4. Request the documents be re-sent via email if possible 5. If you still can't get the information with enough time to prepare, request a continuance at least 3 business days before your hearing Remember to document all your attempts to get this information. This creates a record showing you've been trying to participate in the process in good faith, which can help your case if you need to appeal later.

I'm dealing with something similar right now! My employer is disputing my claim and I only found out the details by accident when I called about a different issue. The rep mentioned they were claiming I was terminated for "excessive absences" which was news to me since I was told it was a layoff due to budget cuts. One thing that helped me was keeping detailed records of everything - I screenshot my portal daily now and save any emails or letters I get. Also, if you do get through to someone on the phone, ask them to email you a summary of what was discussed. Some reps will do this if you explain you're preparing for a hearing. The whole system seems designed to keep you in the dark until the last minute. It's really unfair that we have to fight so hard just to get basic information about our own cases.

I'm in a similar boat - filed in mid-January and still waiting in week 9 with no reviewer assigned. The financial stress is overwhelming! I've been keeping detailed records of all my calls and attempts to get through. One thing that's helped me stay organized is creating a spreadsheet tracking my weekly certifications, work search activities, and every phone call attempt with dates/times. It's also useful if you eventually need to escalate to your state rep or senator's office. The system is definitely broken, but from reading everyone's experiences here, it seems like persistence eventually pays off. Keep filing those weekly certs and don't give up!

I'm so sorry you're going through this - the stress of waiting 10 weeks with no income is unimaginable! I filed my PA UC claim in late January and I'm now in week 8 with the same "in review" status. Like you, when I finally got through to someone last week, they told me it hadn't been assigned to a reviewer yet either. It's honestly criminal how they're treating people who desperately need these benefits. I've been surviving on credit cards and help from family, but that can't last forever. Reading through these comments gives me some hope though - sounds like many people do eventually get approved, it just takes way longer than it should. I'm definitely going to try that Claimyr service and calling right at 8am. We shouldn't have to jump through all these hoops just to talk to someone about our own claims! Hang in there - you're not alone in this nightmare.