
Pennsylvania Unemployment
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I'm totally confused about my unemployment appeal status. I filed an appeal about 3 weeks ago after being denied benefits (they said I quit but I was actually laid off). I just checked the PA UC portal and it shows 'waiting for decision to be written' under my appeal status. Does this mean they're making a decision WITHOUT giving me a hearing? I thought everyone gets a hearing to explain their side! I have all my documentation ready and was waiting for a hearing notice in the mail. Has anyone else seen this status? What does it actually mean? I'm freaking out thinking they'll just deny me again without letting me speak.
I'm currently on PA unemployment from being laid off last August, and my benefit year ends June 15, 2025. I was laid off AGAIN in February (different company), and PA UC told me that when my current benefit year expires, I could file a new claim based on the February layoff for another 26 weeks if I'm still unemployed. Here's my dilemma - I just got offered some contract work (1099) with completely unpredictable income. Some weeks I might make nothing, other weeks could be decent money. The UC rep I finally reached after 43 calls said I can keep claiming weekly benefits on my current claim and just report any 1099 earnings for those specific weeks. BUT - and this is what's freaking me out - they said if I take this 1099 position now, when I try to file that new claim in June, I'd have to report the 1099 work and an 'examiner would review my case to determine eligibility.' They wouldn't give me a straight answer on whether I'd be approved or denied! I'm seriously stressing about whether to accept this 1099 work. The income isn't guaranteed AT ALL, but I'm scared it could mess up my ability to file that new claim in June when my current benefit year ends. Has anyone dealt with this 1099/new claim situation? What would you do?
Not to confuse things but don't u need to look for full time work while ur on UC anyway? So u should probably be applying for jobs regardless. The 1099 might help u in meantime. Just report any $ u make each week. That's what I do with my side gig.
I think you have enough information now to make a decision. Based on what you've shared about your work history: 1. You have sufficient W-2 earnings in your base period (Jan-Dec 2024) 2. You were laid off from W-2 employment in February 2025 3. The 1099 work is flexible and you can still search for full-time work Taking the 1099 position shouldn't negatively impact your ability to file a new claim in June. Just make sure you: - Report all earnings accurately each week - Continue your work search activities and documentation - Keep records of everything related to both your W-2 layoff and 1099 work - When filing your new claim, clearly indicate you're filing based on your February 2025 W-2 job separation If you run into problems with the new claim, request a determination interview where you can explain your situation in detail.
I'm in a total panic right now. Just realized TODAY is the final day to file my appeal for my PA unemployment claim that was denied last month. I got the determination letter about 12 days ago saying I was ineligible because I supposedly quit (which is NOT true - I was laid off). The letter says I have 15 days to appeal and today is day 15! Can I file this appeal online somehow? Or do I absolutely NEED to talk to someone at UC? I've been calling the 888 number all morning but keep getting the busy signal. I'm at work right now and have to shut my phone off for an important meeting in about an hour, but I HAVE to get this appeal filed today. Has anyone successfully filed a last-minute appeal? Can I do it through the PA UC portal? Is there an email address? Please help!!
UPDATE: I just got out of my meeting and was able to submit my appeal online!!! The portal gave me a confirmation number and everything. I uploaded the email from my boss that clearly mentions the department layoffs. Thank you all SO MUCH for your help today. I was seriously panicking. Now I'm just hoping they schedule the hearing soon because I really need these benefits.
Great job getting it submitted in time! Make sure to watch your mail AND email closely over the next few weeks. Hearing notices can come either way, and they typically give about 7-10 days notice before the hearing date. Start gathering any additional evidence now - things like official termination paperwork, communications about the layoff, or contact information for witnesses who can verify you were laid off rather than quit. Good luck with your hearing!
congrats! one more tip - when they schedule ur hearing make sure ur phone accepts calls from unknown/blocked numbers. missed my first hearing cuz i have spam filter on my phone and had to reschedule :
So I'm at the very end of my benefit year and just did what should be my final weekly claim. My UC account was showing I had about $174 left in my balance, but my weekly benefit amount is normally $378. When I submitted my claim just now, it's showing $0 where my weekly amount usually displays! Does this mean I'm not getting that last $174? Or will they still pay out whatever remaining balance I have left? Has anyone dealt with this before? I was really counting on getting at least something for this last week. The system didn't give me any errors or warnings during filing.
FINALLY got approved for PA unemployment after 5 weeks of waiting!!! My portal updated today showing payment date of 3/1 but there's no transaction number yet. Does anyone know how long it takes for funds to hit the Money Network card? I'm worried because tomorrow is Friday and then it's the weekend... will that slow things down? I've been surviving on ramen noodles waiting for this to come through and really need to buy groceries ASAP. Should I expect the money tomorrow or will I be waiting until Monday/Tuesday? ๐
Just to give you an update: I checked the PA UC processing schedule and if your payment date is 3/1, that means the file was sent to Money Network today (2/29). Money Network typically processes their files overnight, so there's a small chance you could see it tomorrow afternoon, but Monday is more realistic due to their internal processing times.
PixelPioneer
this happened to my brother and he did end up having a hearing. the system just updated weird. dont trust the online status its almost never right. keep checking your mail and email everyday!!
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Ava Johnson
UPDATE: I finally got through to someone at the appeals office! The representative confirmed they're reviewing my documentation before deciding if a hearing is needed. She said my employer didn't contest the appeal and my documentation was very clear, so they might just overturn the denial without a hearing. She said I should keep an eye on my mail for either a hearing notice or a decision letter in the next 7-10 days. Thank you all for your help and advice!
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Connor Byrne
That's great news! If your employer isn't contesting it and you have clear documentation, there's a very good chance they'll rule in your favor without needing a hearing. This is actually the best-case scenario as it typically means a faster resolution. Keep us updated on the final outcome!
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Paolo Rizzo
Fingers crossed for you! Sounds promising!!
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