Try using the "posted within" filter on CareerLink - it helps a little but not completely. I've had better luck with Indeed for my work search. Remember to check the "date posted" on any job listing. Current PA work search rules: - Must complete 2 qualified activities per week - Must accept suitable work if offered - Must keep records of all work search activities for 2 years (in case of audit) - Must register with PA CareerLink within 30 days of initial UC application Don't forget that applying to jobs posted on Facebook jobs, company websites, or even inquiring about positions in person all count! The job doesn't have to come from CareerLink.

To answer your question about a specific form - PA UC doesn't require a specific form for tracking work search activities. However, they do provide an optional form called "UC-304 Record of Job Applications and Work Search Activities" that you can download from their website. Using this form ensures you're capturing all the information they might ask for in an audit. If you're filing online, you'll notice they only ask you to certify that you completed the activities, not to enter details. But keep your records safe because they do conduct random audits where they'll request your detailed work search information. Regarding the virtual workshops - yes, attending CareerLink workshops (virtual or in-person) absolutely counts as a work search activity! Many claimants don't realize this, but it's one of the easiest ways to fulfill the requirement.

For your appeal hearing, organize all your evidence chronologically and make 3 copies of everything - one for yourself, one for the referee, and one for your employer (who may or may not show up). Practice explaining your situation clearly and concisely. Focus on these points: 1. Your sister's medical condition requiring care 2. That you notified your employer and requested accommodation 3. That your employer refused accommodation 4. That you had no alternative but to quit 5. That the performance review was unrelated or possibly retaliatory Bring a timeline of events with specific dates. Referees appreciate organization and clear presentation of facts. And yes, they will backpay all weeks if you win the appeal, so keep filing those weekly claims!

Submit documentation both ahead of time AND have it ready during the hearing. When you receive your hearing notice, it will have instructions for submitting evidence beforehand. Follow those exactly, and make sure to send it by the deadline. But also keep copies to reference during the hearing. As for your withheld final paycheck - that's a separate issue from UC. File a wage complaint with the PA Department of Labor & Industry ASAP. Employers cannot legally withhold your final paycheck for alleged PTO overages without prior written agreement. You can file the complaint online at www.dli.pa.gov.

My cousin got approved last month and didn't get paid cause they had her old bank account still in the system even though she updated it! Make super sure your banking info is correct in your profile section!!!

Quick update for you - most approved claims in 2025 are being processed within 48-72 hours if there are no issues with your banking information. If you don't see a transaction number by the end of business tomorrow, I would recommend contacting them to verify everything is moving forward correctly. Also, when you do receive your payment, check that the amount matches what you're expecting based on your weekly benefit amount plus the backpay for all those weeks. Sometimes the calculations can be off.

when i had my hearing it was on the phone not in person, is that normal? they gave me like 2 days notice which was super stressful. make sure you check your mail everyday

One more thing I forgot to mention - if you're truly in a financial emergency while waiting for your appeal, contact your local state representative's office. They sometimes can help expedite UC issues or connect you with emergency assistance programs. My state rep's office actually helped get my appeal hearing scheduled faster after I explained my situation to them.

my appeal only took like 3 weeks but that was back in february so maybe its worse now? good luck! the hearing itself was actually pretty quick, like 30 minutes on the phone with a referee person. make sure u have all ur stuff ready to explain!

I recommend preparing a one-page outline of your case with dates and key points. The referee will appreciate a clear timeline. Also, practice explaining your situation concisely. Focus on facts rather than emotions during the hearing. If your employer will be at the hearing (they're invited), be prepared to respond to their statements professionally. The more organized you are, the faster things tend to move.