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Hey, I work for an accounting firm and we see this issue frequently with clients. The most effective approach is a two-pronged attack: 1. With the IRS: File Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit) AND write a detailed letter of explanation with your tax return. Include copies (never originals) of the PA UC fraud confirmation letters. Even without a corrected 1099-G, the IRS can place an identity theft marker on your account. 2. With PA UC: Request to speak specifically with the 1099-G Correction Unit or Fraud Investigation Department. Regular agents aren't trained or authorized to handle these corrections. Be extremely specific that you need a CORRECTED 1099-G showing zero benefits received. Also, check if your employer received any false unemployment claims in your name during that period - they sometimes have additional documentation that can help your case.
Thank you for this detailed advice! I did file the Form 14039 back in 2021 when this first happened, but I haven't been including copies of the fraud confirmation letters with my tax returns. I'll definitely do that this year. And I'll ask my employer if they have any documentation - that's a great idea I hadn't considered.
Any updates on your situation? Were you able to reach the right department using the information people shared?
I finally got through yesterday using that Claimyr service someone mentioned! The agent connected me with the Fraud Investigation Unit and they confirmed they can issue a corrected 1099-G. They said it should take 4-6 weeks, but at least it's finally in process. I also contacted my state rep's office as a backup in case it doesn't come through. Thank you all for the help - I was ready to give up!
I had almost the same situation in April. After trying for weeks to get through i managed to talk to someone who told me there was a "wage investigation" happening because I had worked in both PA and Delaware last year. Nobody told me this was happening! Once I knew what was going on I was able to upload my W2s and within a week it was resolved. You HAVE to talk to someone to find out what's happening.
I finally got through yesterday! Turns out there was an issue with my identity verification (even though I did the IDme verification when I first applied). The agent was able to clear it right away. She said my payments should start processing within 3-5 business days and I'll get all the back weeks. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions.
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.
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.
Isabella Ferreira
THE WHOLE PA UC SYSTEM IS A JOKE!!!! I had a similar situation last year - claim from December but payments in January and they STILL haven't corrected my tax forms even after THREE CALLS!!! Now the IRS is after me saying I underreported income but it's PA UC's fault! They issued the 1099-G for the wrong year. GOOD LUCK getting anyone to fix anything in this broken system!!!!
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Ravi Sharma
•Sorry that happened to you. Tax stuff is so stressful. Hope OP has better luck!
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NebulaNomad
My sister works in accounting and she says that for income tax purposes it's always about when you receive the money, not when you earned it. That's why your W2 shows what was paid to you during the calendar year. So for UC benefits, it would be when you actually received the payments. But for reporting work to UC while collecting benefits, that's different - you report when you work even if not paid yet. It's confusing because they're different systems with different rules!
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CosmicCommander
•This makes so much sense! Thank you for explaining the difference. So for my taxes, I'll only worry about these UC payments for next year's tax filing. And I'll make sure to report my orientation hours this week even though I'm not getting paid yet. Appreciate everyone's help!
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