How does PA UC in-person hearing work? Can I request phone hearing for anxiety issues?

i had an in-person hearing last year and YES you can request to change it to phone!!! call the number on your hearing notice ASAP though, dont wait til last minute. the number should be at the bottom of ur notice. when i went in person it was super formal with a referee who acted like a judge and the employer's lawyer was there too which made me so nervus i could barely talk

Yes, you can request a phone hearing instead of in-person, but you need to do this immediately. Call the Appeals office listed on your hearing notice and explain that you have anxiety issues that make in-person appearances difficult. Be prepared to submit medical documentation if they request it. The typical hearing process involves: 1. The Referee introduces everyone and explains the process 2. You'll be sworn in under oath 3. Your employer presents their case first if they initiated the appeal 4. You present your case first if you initiated the appeal 5. Both sides can question each other and witnesses 6. The Referee may ask clarifying questions 7. Both sides make closing statements Most hearings last 30-60 minutes. Make sure you bring ALL supporting documentation, especially your medical records if your case involves attendance issues.

I HAD THE SAME PROBLEM!!!! My anxiety was through the roof and I couldn't even eat for days before my hearing. I ended up going in person and it was actually not as scary as I thought, the referee person was pretty nice BUT I wish I knew I could've done phone instead. The whole thing took like 45 minutes for me. They asked a bunch of questions about my work history and why I was let go. Make sure you have EVERY piece of paperwork they sent you!!!!!

If you're having trouble getting through to the Appeals office by phone (which is common), I recommend using Claimyr to connect with them. I was in a similar situation and spent days trying to reach someone. Claimyr got me connected in under an hour. Their site is claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2 Once you do reach them, be very clear about your anxiety concerns. The Appeals office can be accommodating for medical issues, but they need to know in advance.

just fyi they denied my request to change to phone last year, said i didnt have enough documentation. if u have actual doctors notes about anxiety u should be fine tho

To add some important details: When requesting a phone hearing, specifically cite PA UC regulation 101.82(a)(3) which permits alternate hearing methods for medical reasons. Submit your request in writing as well as by phone for documentation purposes. Also, prepare thoroughly regardless of hearing format - have a timeline of events, all communications with your employer about your absences, and medical documentation with dates that correspond to your missed work days. Decisions typically come within 10-14 days after the hearing.

good luck!! my hearing was super stressful but i ended up winning. the most important thing is stay calm and dont interrupt anyone even if theyre lying. i almost lost it when my boss started making stuff up but the referee noticed and called him out on it lol

One more thing - if you're able to get your hearing changed to phone, make sure you're in a quiet place with good reception when they call. Have all your documents spread out where you can see them. Take notes during the other party's testimony so you can address any inaccuracies. And most importantly, speak clearly and answer only what is asked without volunteering extra information that might hurt your case.

just wondering did u get thru to them yet?? let us know what happens!!