UPDATE: Money just hit my card this morning (Monday)! So it ended up taking 5 business days rather than the 1-2 they promised. Thanks everyone for the reassurance - you were right that I just needed to be patient. For anyone else in this situation, definitely trust that the process is working but expect delays beyond what they tell you.

glad it worked out! always remember with PA unemployment, add at least 3 days to whatever timeframe they give you lol

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!

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!!!

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.

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!!!

ya she won! took like 3 weeks to get the decision letter but they ruled in her favor and she got all her backpay at once. she said the hearing was only like 20 mins too.

Based on everything you've shared, especially finding that policy in your handbook about excused medical absences, I think you have a strong case. Make sure to address these key points at your hearing: 1. Present your medical documentation and positive flu test 2. Show evidence that you followed the proper call-off procedures 3. Highlight the handbook policy that medical absences should be coded differently 4. Calmly explain the timeline of events 5. Bring evidence of any communication with your employer about your illness Stay focused on the facts and don't let emotions take over, even if the employer representative says things you disagree with. The referee is looking at whether your final absences meet the legal definition of willful misconduct, and documented illness with proper notification generally does not. Good luck, and please update us after your hearing!