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THE PHONE HEARING IS ACTUALLY WORSE!!! I did that and regretted it because I couldn't see the referee's face or read body language. Plus my phone kept cutting out and I missed some questions. If your orientation is important, just ask for a postponement instead. The UC system is BROKEN and they don't care about our schedules AT ALL!!!
While phone hearings have limitations, they're often the only viable option for those with scheduling conflicts. A postponement is a valid alternative, but as I mentioned, it can significantly delay the process. Each situation is different - some cases are better suited for in-person hearings while others work fine via phone. The important thing is making the request promptly and properly documenting your need for accommodation.
I ended up having to postpone my hearing by almost 4 weeks because I didn't act quickly enough. Definitely don't wait! I finally got through to someone after using that service I mentioned, and they were able to help me figure everything out. Just make sure to have your appeal docket number ready when you call.
I just called the appeals office this morning and they said they'll need my request in writing! Going to fax it over today and follow up tomorrow. Fingers crossed they approve it. Thanks everyone for the advice!
An important point that hasn't been mentioned: In 2025, PA UC has been more thoroughly reviewing self-employment situations because of the high number of overpayments they had to process during the pandemic years. They're being extra cautious with these claims now. The good news is that if your self-employment is just getting started and you're making under the Partial Benefit Credit (PBC) amount, you should still qualify for at least partial benefits assuming you meet all other eligibility requirements and are truly available for full-time work.
this is so true! they scrutinize EVERYTHING now. my friend just gave up and didnt even bother filing when she started freelancing cuz its such a hassle 🙄
Update: I finally got through to UC yesterday! The agent explained that the active issue was indeed related to my self-employment. They're sending me a questionnaire asking about my business hours, whether I'd accept full-time work, and details about my work search activities. She said once I return that with proper documentation, they should be able to process my claim. Will post another update when I hear back.
That's great news! When you fill out that questionnaire, be very clear and specific about your limited hours in self-employment and your continued availability for full-time work. Also attach copies of your work search records to strengthen your case. Good luck!
i forgot to ask, did u check ur determination letter carefully?? sometimes they deny ppl for dumb technical reasons like u answered a question wrong or didnt report some tiny income. might be easier to fix that than fight about the separation if thats actually the problem
One more important tip - when you file your appeal (do it online if possible), clearly explain the specific facts that disprove the job abandonment claim. Don't just say "I disagree" or "This is unfair." For example: "I appeal this determination because I did NOT abandon my position. I provided written two-week notice on [date], worked all scheduled shifts through my final day on [date], and even trained my replacement. My manager [name] acknowledged my notice and final day. I have text messages and witness testimony to verify these facts." This approach immediately focuses the referee on the key dispute. Good luck with your appeal!
Thank you for the template! I just submitted my appeal using similar wording. Now I'm gathering all my evidence and trying to contact former coworkers for statements. I'll update here once I get a hearing date or any news. Thanks to everyone for the guidance - I feel much more confident about fighting this!
forgot to mention - make sure ur bank acct info is 100% correct. my friend put the wrong routing number and it delayed everything by another 3 weeks
Honestly the whole PA system is designed to make it as difficult as possible to get your benefits. I bet they'll keep sending checks just to make it harder for you. Not trying to be negative but that's just how they operate. They hope you'll miss a check in the mail and then they save money. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING!!!
While the system can definitely be frustrating, there's actually a legitimate reason for the delay. PA UC uses a verification process for new direct deposit information to prevent fraud. It's not designed to make you miss payments. If you're concerned about mail delivery, you can request mail forwarding or set up informed delivery with USPS to get digital previews of incoming mail.
PixelPioneer
THE SYSTEM IS RIGGED!!!! They NEVER give you the full 26 weeks unless you made BIG MONEY! I worked 18 months and only got 18 weeks, how is that fair?? My friend worked only 9 months and got 22 weeks because she had a higher paying job! It's all about how much you earned not how long you worked, which is TOTALLY UNFAIR to those of us in lower wage jobs!!!! 😡
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Zainab Ahmed
•While I understand your frustration, the system is designed this way because unemployment benefits are meant to partially replace wages. Higher wages = higher benefits, but everyone has the same percentage replacement rate. The duration is affected by total earnings because they're trying to ensure you have sufficient work history to qualify for the full benefit period.
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Dmitry Smirnov
Just got my Notice of Financial Determination today! They approved me for 20 weeks based on my earnings. Not the full 26 I was hoping for, but better than I expected after reading all your comments. Thanks everyone for your help explaining how this works!
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Ava Johnson
•congrats! make sure u do ur weekly claims on time, they r super picky about that
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ElectricDreamer
•That's great news! Be sure to complete your work search activities each week (applying to jobs, attending workshops, etc.). You need to do at least 2 per week and record them when you file your weekly claims.
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