FINAL UPDATE: The UC office called me back today. They fixed the issue on their end and said it was caused by a database error during their system update. They found 37 accounts total that had this problem and they've fixed them all now. They also said they're sending formal notification letters to everyone affected, including the people whose info was in my account. They apologized a bunch and said they're implementing new testing procedures before future updates. The rep also mentioned they're going to review my claim personally to make sure nothing else was affected. Thanks again everyone for your help with this! Definitely scary to see other people's info but at least they took it seriously once I finally reached them.

Wow, thanks for sharing this whole experience and keeping us updated! This is actually really helpful to know about. I've been having some weird glitches with my account lately (nothing this serious) but now I'm wondering if they're related to the same system issues you encountered. It's honestly pretty scary that 37 people were affected by this data breach. Makes me want to check my account more carefully to make sure everything looks right. Did they give you any advice on what to watch out for going forward, or any way to verify that your account is secure now? Also really glad that Claimyr service worked out for you - I've been struggling to get through on the phone for weeks about a different issue and might have to try that route myself.

the whole system is designed to be confusing on purpose! they hope people mess up so they dont have to pay, smh

I just went through this same situation last month! One thing that really helped me was setting up a simple spreadsheet to track everything - weekly claim filing dates, work search activities, and any correspondence from UC. During those zero-benefit months, it becomes even more important to stay organized because you're doing all the work without seeing any money. Also, consider looking into local food banks or assistance programs during that gap period - many don't require you to be receiving benefits, just proof that you're unemployed. The stress is real but you'll get through it!

Thanks everyone for the helpful replies! I've passed all this info along to my friend. She's going to apply this week and make sure to highlight the substantial change in job duties and include her original job description. She did try to work it out with her manager first (offering to help coordinate transportation but not use her own car) so she'll mention that too. I'll update this thread once she hears anything about her claim. Fingers crossed it goes smoothly!

Just wanted to add that your friend should also document any expenses she would have incurred if she had agreed to the transportation requirement. Things like additional gas, wear and tear on her vehicle, potential insurance premium increases, and mileage. PA UC considers whether the employer's demands create an undue financial burden on the employee. If she can show that using her personal vehicle would have cost her X dollars per month with no compensation from the employer, that strengthens her case that this was an unreasonable change to her employment terms. The fact that she offered alternative solutions (coordinating but not using her own car) shows she was trying to be reasonable and work with them.

Update: I just tried the online reopening process and it worked perfectly! Found the button right on my dashboard like you all said. Took about 15 minutes to answer all the questions. The system says I should be able to file my weekly certification this Sunday. Thanks everyone for the help!

Construction worker here too! Just wanted to add that if you're expecting to go back to work soon (like within a week or two), make sure to report your expected return-to-work date when you reopen your claim. The system will ask about it during the reopening process. Also, if your employer gave you any documentation about the temporary layoff (like a notice or email), keep that handy in case UC asks for it later. Weather-related shutdowns are pretty common in our industry and UC understands that, so you should be fine as long as you're honest about everything.

My experience with PA unemployment: payment date shows up, then my money appears on my card sometime between 3am-11am the next day. Been claiming for 5 months now and its pretty consistent. So for your August 2nd payment date, you should see funds August 3rd morning, which should work for your Friday rent deadline! First payment might be different tho, mine took an extra day.

Just wanted to share my experience as someone who's been on PA UC for about 6 months now. With Money Network cards, I've found the timing is pretty reliable once you get past your first payment. Most of the time it's next business day like others mentioned, but I've had it show up same day a few times (usually around 4-5pm). One thing I learned the hard way - if you're cutting it close with bills, it's worth calling your landlord or whoever you owe money to and giving them a heads up about the potential delay. Most people are understanding about unemployment situations, especially if you communicate early. Better to be upfront than scramble at the last minute. Also, make sure you have the Money Network app downloaded so you can check your balance easily. Good luck with your first payment!