my cousin had the same thing happen and she just lied and said she worked one more week lol but i guess that's fraud so probably don't do that...they check everything these days

Thanks everyone for all your help! I've decided to try calling them using that Claimyr service to get an official answer, and also to run the calculations for both September and October filing to see which would be better for my base year. I'll update once I know more in case it helps someone else in the future!

Regarding your open issue of "employment separation - voluntary quit": This is critical to address immediately. This classification is likely why your claim is under review, as voluntary quits generally do not qualify for benefits unless they meet specific criteria. You should: 1. Gather documentation proving you were laid off (termination letter, severance documents, etc.) 2. Submit this information through your dashboard under the "Provide Additional Documentation" section 3. Call the UC service center to specifically address this misclassification This type of issue typically requires an interview with a claims examiner to resolve the discrepancy between your statement (laid off) and your employer's apparent statement (voluntary quit). These interviews are scheduled automatically, but reaching out proactively can sometimes expedite the process.

anyone tried using claimyr to get thru to unemployment? thinking of trying it since i cant get anyone on the phone and have been waiting 4 weeks with an issue on my claim

Just to share my recent experience - I received my first payment date on January 3rd, 2025, and my Money Network card arrived on January 14th. So that was about 11 calendar days (7-8 business days). The card comes in a very plain white envelope with just a Money Network return address from Indiana. No mention of unemployment or PA government anywhere on the envelope, so it's easy to mistake for junk mail.\n\nOnce you get the card, activation is pretty straightforward. You'll call the number, set up a PIN, and can immediately check your balance. All my back payments were there from the start date of my claim.

Thanks for sharing your timeline! This helps me have realistic expectations. I'll watch my mail carefully - good point about it looking like junk mail with no UC markings.

About sharing documents - the notice should have instructions for submitting evidence before the hearing. There's usually a fax number or email address. You should submit that email ASAP so it's part of the official record. If you haven't already, call the referee's office (number should be on the notice) and ask about the procedure for submitting evidence. They may tell you that you need to send copies to your employer too. And regarding your earlier question about paying back benefits if you lose - they typically set up a repayment plan, you wouldn't have to pay it all back at once. But honestly, if you have documentation showing you were laid off due to workforce reduction, your chances are very good. Stay confident!

Just wanted to add - keep your answers focused on facts rather than emotions. It's easy to get worked up when someone is mischaracterizing your separation, but referees respond best to clear, factual statements. For example, instead of "They're lying about me quitting!", say "On March 15, Mr. Smith informed me and my colleagues that our positions were being eliminated due to reduced client contracts. He specifically used the term 'workforce reduction' and stated it was not related to our performance." Also, if your former employer says something that isn't true, make a note and wait for your turn to respond. The referee will give you an opportunity to address their statements. Good luck with your hearing - come back and let us know how it goes!

A brief written outline is actually perfect for an appeal hearing. The referee will appreciate the organization. Just keep it to bullet points of dates and events rather than a full statement. And remember that for the "availability" issue, the key is proving he was ready and able to work after the FMLA period ended, which your pay stubs demonstrate. For the overpayment, focus on the fact that benefits were only claimed during actual periods of unemployment after FMLA ended. I've helped several clients successfully overturn similar determinations.

Update: We finally got through to PA UC this morning! The rep confirmed there was a reporting error where his employer coded his FMLA absence as "voluntary leave" instead of protected FMLA. The rep made detailed notes in the system for our appeal hearing. She also advised us to have his supervisor write a short letter confirming his work dates. I'm feeling so much more confident now! Will update after the hearing next week. Thank you all for the amazing advice!