Update: I FINALLY got through to someone this morning! For anyone with a similar problem - I called the alternative number (888-313-7284) at exactly 7:59am and selected option 1 then 3 for payment issues like someone suggested here. The agent explained that my claim was put on hold for recalculation because of my part-time work. She lifted the hold and I should be able to file again starting Sunday. She also said I'll be able to file for the missed week once the system updates (24-48 hours). My weekly benefit amount will be reduced based on my part-time earnings, but at least I'll get something. Thanks everyone for your help!

That's such great news that you got through and got it resolved! For anyone else dealing with this issue - I had a very similar experience last year. The key things I learned: 1) Always call right when they open at 8am, 2) The payment issues line really does have shorter wait times, and 3) Make sure to ask specifically about backdating any missed weeks when you talk to the agent. Also, once your claim is back to normal, they'll recalculate your weekly benefit based on your part-time earnings using a formula - basically they subtract your weekly earnings from your full benefit amount, so you'll still get partial benefits as long as you're not earning more than your full weekly benefit amount. Keep all your pay stubs because they might ask for them later to verify your reported earnings!

UPDATE: Transaction number just appeared this morning! So it took about 48 hours from when I certified. Thanks everyone for your help and reassurance. Seems like the timing just varies from week to week.

I'm so glad you posted this question because I'm literally going through the exact same thing right now! Filed my certification Sunday evening and it's Wednesday morning with still no transaction number. Reading through all these responses is really reassuring - sounds like 48-72 hours is pretty normal, especially during busy periods. I was starting to wonder if I did something wrong with my certification, but it seems like the PA UC system just has inconsistent timing. Thanks for asking what we're all thinking but afraid to post about!

Does anyone know if winning an appeal means you automatically get paid? My account still says disqualified even though I got a letter saying I won my appeal 3 weeks ago. Do I need to do something else???

Wow, congrats on the quick decision and winning your appeal! I'm currently waiting for my appeal decision - it's been 11 days since my hearing and I'm checking the mail every day like a crazy person. My case was also pretty straightforward (employer incorrectly reported my separation reason) but my employer DID show up to the hearing, so maybe that's why mine is taking longer? Reading everyone's experiences here is both helpful and nerve-wracking at the same time. The inconsistency in timing is wild! Fingers crossed I hear something soon.

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.

In Pennsylvania, you should definitely file your weekly claim as usual on Sunday and report the training hours you worked, even though you haven't received payment yet. PA unemployment requires you to report work when it's performed, not when you get paid. Here's what you need to do: - File your claim as normal on Sunday - Report that you worked (say "yes" when asked if you worked) - Report all 40 hours that you worked in training - Report the gross amount you expect to earn (before taxes) - Answer "no" if asked if you've returned to full-time work permanently For the week you report these earnings, your UC benefits will likely be reduced or eliminated depending on how much you earned. However, this only affects that specific week. Since you're not continuing with this job, you can resume normal UC claims the following week. When you file the next week, you'll indicate that you're no longer working there. Be prepared to explain that the commute was too far if asked. This is generally considered a valid reason for leaving a position, especially during a trial/training period. One thing to note: if your earnings from the training exceed 40% of your weekly benefit rate, your benefits will be reduced. If they exceed your weekly benefit rate plus the partial benefit credit (typically 30% of your weekly benefit), you won't receive benefits for that week, but this won't affect future weeks. If you have any specific questions about your situation, I'd recommend calling the PA UC service center directly at 1-888-313-7284 for guidance tailored to your claim.