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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.
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.
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!!!!
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!
Also be prepared to wait FOREVER even after you get the card to access your money!!! When I finally got mine, the website made me wait 24 MORE HOURS after activating before I could transfer the money to my bank!!! Why?? Just another way they make it IMPOSSIBLE to get OUR MONEY that WE PAID INTO THE SYSTEM!!!
Just following up - did you ever get your Money Network card? Did calling them help resolve the issue?
Yes! Finally got it yesterday actually. Turns out it was sent to my old address even though my current address was correctly listed in the UC portal. The Money Network rep explained that sometimes there's a delay in address updates between systems. They're sending a replacement to my correct address and waived the expedite fee since it was their error. Thanks everyone for the advice - especially the tip about checking through the automated system!
Yara Sayegh
I just went through all this last month! My account got locked and I had an appeal to file for being denied benefits when I was actually laid off. I ended up just driving to the CareerLink office in [city] and they helped me submit the appeal right there. Took like 45 minutes total including wait time. Way easier than trying to call. Just bring your ID and determination letter.
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Miguel Ramos
UPDATE: I got my appeal submitted! Used Claimyr this morning after trying to call for hours with no luck. Got through to an agent in about 30 minutes who unlocked my account AND helped me file the appeal electronically. They also noted in my file that I had been trying to submit before the deadline but was locked out. Such a relief! Now just have to wait for the actual appeal hearing I guess. Thanks everyone for your help!
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Keisha Johnson
•Great news! For the appeal hearing, make sure you gather any evidence showing it was actually a layoff (emails, texts, termination notice, etc.). If you have any coworkers who were laid off at the same time, their statements could help too. Good luck!
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