ANOTHER TIP: When you contact your state rep, be super specific about your financial hardship. I mentioned I was 2 weeks away from eviction (which was true) and that seemed to light a fire under them. Not saying to lie but definitely make it clear if you're facing serious consequences from the delay.

Update: I tried calling PA UC all morning and just got busy signals. I found my state rep's contact info and filled out their unemployment assistance form online. The confirmation email said they typically respond within 2 business days, so I'll update here if anything changes with my claim. Thanks everyone for the advice!

Just wanted to follow up - were you able to get through to anyone? I'm curious what caused your issue since I might be facing the same thing soon as my company is also starting to bring people back.

After three days of trying, I finally got through! Turns out my employer submitted a form saying they were

One more thing to consider: if your employer doesn't attend the hearing (which happens fairly often), your chances of winning increase significantly. The referee will still review the employer's submitted statements, but without them there to cross-examine you or provide additional testimony, your account will carry more weight.\n\nAlso, don't forget that even if you lose the appeal, you can request a Board Review, which is essentially a second appeal. You'd want to do this within 15 days of receiving the referee's decision if it goes against you.

That's good to know! Do you know if the company is required to tell me beforehand whether they'll attend? Also, if I win the appeal, will I get all the back benefits from when I first applied?

One thing to prepare for: the employer might bring up previous incidents or try to make it seem like there's a pattern of behavior. Stick to the facts of THIS incident. If they start bringing up unrelated issues, politely remind the referee that those weren't part of the stated reason for termination. I've seen employers try this tactic many times in these hearings. Also, take detailed notes during the employer's testimony so you can point out any inconsistencies during your testimony or cross-examination. If they say something that contradicts their written policies or previous statements, point it out respectfully.

dont forget to update us after ur hearing! im curious what happens!!

My brother in law had this exact problem!!!!! he waited like 10 weeks to get approved and then only got 1 payment, they said his benfit year was ending. He ended up having to wait almost 2 months for a new claim. PA system is broken and they dont care about us at all

UPDATE: I took everyone's advice and managed to get through to an actual person at UC! I used the Claimyr service that someone mentioned and got connected in about 20 minutes. The agent confirmed that I do have enough qualifying wages from my work last year to file a new claim right now! Apparently the system wasn't recognizing my wages correctly because of when they were reported. She overrode something in the system and helped me file a new claim right there on the phone. Should get a determination in 2-3 weeks she said. Thanks everyone for the help and suggestions! Definitely worth calling and speaking to an actual person rather than just trusting what the online system says.