UPDATE: I finally got through to a PA UC rep! They confirmed it was indeed a system glitch - apparently their system can sometimes misinterpret certain job search entries as a job separation (makes no sense but whatever). The rep removed the false flag from my account and I was able to file my weekly certification normally right after our call. My payment is now showing as processed! Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions.

Awesome that you got it resolved! For anyone else dealing with this same glitch - I had a similar experience a few weeks ago and what helped me get through faster was calling right when they open at 8am. The lines seem less busy first thing in the morning. Also totally agree with keeping screenshots of everything - saved me when I had to prove the system error wasn't on my end. The PA UC system definitely needs some serious bug fixes after their updates!

Just to provide some clarity on interstate claims since there seems to be some confusion: 1. For remote workers, the state where you physically performed the work (Ohio in your case) is typically considered your work location, regardless of where your employer is located. 2. However, since you paid PA taxes, your wages were likely reported to PA, which complicates things. 3. In your specific situation, you might need to file what's called a "combined-wage claim" where your wages from multiple states are combined. When you speak with a UC representative, specifically ask about combined-wage claims and whether your situation requires one. The good news is that these issues are resolvable - they just require getting through to someone who understands the interstate wage system.

I work for PA UC (can't say which office) and this "no wages reported" issue with universities is happening A LOT lately. The problem is that many large institutions like Penn State have their payroll processed through third-party companies that sometimes use different EINs for reporting than what's in our main system. Since you worked remotely from Ohio but paid PA taxes, your wages should definitely be in our system - it's just a matter of the right person looking in the right place. The appeal you filed will trigger a manual wage search which usually finds the wages within 7-10 business days. One thing that might help speed this up: call your university's HR/payroll department and ask them to confirm which EIN they used to report your wages to PA UC. Sometimes they have the main university EIN but payroll gets reported under a subsidiary EIN. If you can provide that specific EIN number in your appeal documentation, it helps our wage investigation team find your records faster. Don't panic - I've seen hundreds of these cases and 95% get resolved once we do the manual wage verification. Your 9 years of employment will definitely qualify you.

UPDATE: My claim was approved!!! They actually accepted my explanation about the commission-only job without even requiring an appeal. The UC examiner agreed that a commission-only position wasn't suitable work compared to my previous salaried position. Just wanted to update everyone who helped me. Make sure you're honest about everything on your certifications!

Just wanted to add my experience for anyone else who might be in a similar situation. I went through something comparable last year where I accepted what I thought was a regular sales position but it turned out to be door-to-door commission only. The key thing that helped me was keeping detailed records of the original job posting and any emails/texts from the employer. When I explained to UC that the job was fundamentally different from what was advertised, they sided with me. Pennsylvania does protect workers from bait-and-switch situations like this. The fact that you're still in training and haven't earned anything yet actually strengthens your case that this wasn't the stable employment you thought you were accepting. Good luck with your claim - sounds like you're handling it the right way by being upfront about everything!

Just to follow up - did you ever get your payment? I'm curious if it was the card expiration issue or just the normal delay for first payments.

UPDATE: The money finally showed up on my card this morning! So it took exactly 6 business days from the \

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!