My rep actually gave me a reference number for the inquiry they submitted. Did yours give you anything like that? Might be worth calling back to ask for it so you can reference it in future calls.

One more thing I should mention - if your open issue is related to your separation from employment (quit/fired/laid off), having documentation ready will help. Things like separation letters, emails about your departure, or any relevant communication with your former employer. The examiner might ask for these to be uploaded or emailed when they call. Also, don't be surprised if the 'open issue' turns out to be something simple or even a system error. Often these long delays are due to claims being flagged by automated systems and then sitting in queues waiting for human review.

The PA UC system is SUCH a joke. They make up all these internal department names that mean nothing to regular people, don't explain ANYTHING clearly, and then expect us to just wait patiently while our bills pile up. I had a similar experience back in January - was told my claim was going to some special department for review and the rep couldn't even tell me how long it would take! Ended up waiting 17 days for my first payment. The whole system needs to be completely revamped.

Quick update for everyone in this thread - as of April 2025, PA UC has actually improved their internal processing times. "Cash UI" transfers are now typically completed within 48-72 hours according to the latest information from L&I. This is part of their system modernization that began rolling out in January. So @Original_Poster, you may see your payment sooner than expected!

Just a heads up - if you're calling about job search requirements being waived due to medical issues, make sure you have your medical documentation ready to fax or upload. They'll create a ticket but won't be able to resolve it until they receive your doctor's note. The ideal documentation includes the specific dates you're unable to search for work and needs to be signed by a licensed physician.

One more tip about calling PA UC: If you get through and then get disconnected (happens way too often), call back immediately and when prompted by the automated system, press the option to indicate you were disconnected during a previous call. Sometimes this puts you ahead in the queue rather than starting over. Doesn't always work but worth trying.

So what happens if both states deny you??? My brother got caught between PA and Ohio claims and ended up with nothing for like 2 months until he got a new job.

Just wanted to update everyone - I took the advice and filed with NC today. The online system was actually easier to use than PA's. Now I'm waiting to see what they say. I also managed to get through to someone at PA UC after using that Claimyr service (thanks for the recommendation). The agent said my Board appeal is showing as "pending review" which apparently means it's in the queue but hasn't been assigned yet. She also confirmed that filing in NC was the right first step regardless of the appeal outcome. Will update when I know more!

My niece had this same issue with her depression. she waited 8 weeks and nothing happen, then she just reapplied and didnt mention the medical condition at all on the second application and got approved right away. maybe not the right way to do it but it worked for her

For what it's worth, I process UC claims (not in PA, but nearby state with similar rules). The key issue with medical conditions is whether they make you unable to work. If your doctor can document that you can work with certain accommodations, that should resolve the issue. Also, make sure you're completing any questionnaires they send about your medical condition. These often get overlooked in the dashboard but are critical for moving your claim forward. Look specifically for something called an "Able and Available" questionnaire.