Can I get PA UC benefits if I was arrested? Job loss after 3-day jail stay

Hate to tell you this but your friend is probably right. PA UC considers getting fired for missing work due to incarceration as willful misconduct, which typically disqualifies you. But every case is different and you should still apply anyway.

This situation is more complex than a simple yes/no answer. When you apply for benefits, PA UC will contact your employer for their side of the story. The key question will be whether your actions leading to the arrest constitute 'willful misconduct' under PA unemployment law. Generally, being unavailable for work due to incarceration is considered within your control and may disqualify you. However, if the charges are dropped and you can prove the arrest was truly a misunderstanding, you might have a case in appeal. You should: 1. Apply for benefits regardless 2. Be honest about the circumstances 3. Provide documentation showing charges were dropped 4. Be prepared to appeal if denied Each case is evaluated on its individual merits.

my cousin got arrested for somthing similar and he DID get benefits but only after he appeald the first decision. took like 2 months total i think

Former HR manager here. The specific employer policy matters a lot. Some companies have explicit policies that termination due to incarceration is automatic misconduct, while others might classify a brief absence differently. Did your company have an employee handbook outlining their attendance policy? Also, does your company know WHY you didn't call in, or did they just process it as a regular no-call/no-show?

I spent 3 years working at PA UC as a claims examiner. Here's the reality: initially, you'll likely be denied because termination for attendance issues related to incarceration typically falls under willful misconduct. HOWEVER, you absolutely should apply and then appeal if denied. During the appeal, focus on these points: 1. The temporary nature of the detention 2. The fact the charges are being dropped 3. Your previous good standing with the company 4. That you attempted to notify them through your mother Approximately 40% of willful misconduct denials are overturned on appeal when mitigating circumstances exist. The key is documenting everything and clearly explaining why your situation deserves consideration.

the system is such BS!! my brother was in same situation. denied because "willful misconduct" but he DIDNT DO ANYTHING WRONG!! was falsely arrested and charges dropped later but still punished by losing his job AND no benefits. PA UC IS RIGGED!!!!!

Have you been trying to call the PA UC office to ask about your specific situation? I was in a similar situation (medical emergency, not arrest) and needed to speak directly with a claims examiner. I tried for WEEKS with nothing but busy signals and disconnections. Finally I found Claimyr (claimyr.com) - they got me through to a PA UC agent within about 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2 The agent I spoke with was able to give me specific advice for my situation that I couldn't find anywhere online. Definitely worth talking to an actual examiner before you file so you can present your case in the best way possible.

just wondering what kind of work do u do? some industries r more forgiving than others bout this stuff. my buddy works construction and his boss has hired guys with records no problem

After reading through the thread, here's what I'd recommend: 1. File your UC claim ASAP (don't wait for court) 2. In the separation information, be factual but brief - "Terminated for absence due to temporary detention; charges to be dismissed" 3. Gather documentation: court paperwork showing dismissal, any proof your mother called, copy of company handbook 4. Be prepared for an initial denial 5. If denied, immediately file an appeal (15-day deadline) 6. Speak to an actual UC representative about your specific situation (using the contact method suggested above if needed) Many people give up after the initial denial, but the appeal process exists for situations with nuance like yours.

also apply for jobs right away dont wait for UC to come thru because even if approved itll take weeks anyway good luck man