PA UC Appeal Hearing Today - 14 Weeks No Income - What to Expect?

Take a deep breath first. I went through an appeal hearing back in February and it wasn't nearly as intimidating as I thought it would be. The referee was actually pretty fair. Here's what to expect: 1. It's usually a phone hearing now (not in-person) 2. Have ALL your work search records ready - this is super important since that's why you were disqualified 3. The referee will ask you specific questions about your job search activities 4. Your former employer might be on the call (mine was) 5. Be honest, speak clearly, and stick to facts - don't get emotional Make sure you have a quiet place for the call. When they ask why you think the decision was wrong, explain exactly how you met the work search requirements with specific examples. Good luck!

my appeal took like 20 mins total. just be respectful and answer questions. dont argue with the referee they dont like that. good luck dude, i know the feeling

Digital copies are fine! I had mine on my phone and just described them during the call. The referee asked me to email them afterwards. Make sure your screenshots clearly show: - Date of application - Company name - Position applied for - Method of application (website, email, in-person) They're really looking for those specific details to verify you're doing legitimate job searches. Also, be prepared to explain any gaps in your work search activities. If there was a week you didn't do the required activities, be honest about why. If your hearing is by phone, they'll give you a chance at the end to add anything they didn't ask about. Use that time to emphasize your consistent job search efforts and willingness to accept suitable work.

THEY MAKE EVERYTHING SO COMPLICATED ON PURPOSE!!!! I went through 3 appeals before I finally got approved and the whole time they kept saying different reasons why I was denied. First it was work search, then it was because of some form I never got, then something else... The system is designed to make people give up. Don't let them win!!!!!

I was in almost the exact same situation last year - denied for 'insufficient work search' even though I had done everything right. I couldn't get through to anyone at UC to fix it. After 8 weeks of nothing, I finally discovered Claimyr (claimyr.com) and was able to get through to a PA UC agent in about 20 minutes instead of waiting on hold forever. The agent actually fixed some issues before my hearing which helped my case tremendously. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZWG3KiHrg2 For the actual hearing, dress professionally even if it's over the phone (puts you in the right mindset), have all your documents organized chronologically, and write down key points you want to make so you don't forget when nervous. My hearing was surprisingly short - about 15 minutes.

Good luck with youre hearing. I had one last month for a simlar reason and it was fine. The lady didnt even ask that many question's. Just wanted to see my job search proof. I emailed her some screenshots during the call and she was satisfyed. Got my backpay after 2 weeks which was a lifesaver!!! Make sure you answer the phone when they call and be ready a little early incase they call before the exact time.

To answer your follow-up question - yes, if you win your appeal, you should receive all eligible backpay for the weeks you continued filing. The system will process those payments once your eligibility is confirmed through the appeal. It might take 2-3 weeks for processing after a favorable decision, but they should pay everything you're entitled to. One more tip: if the referee seems confused about any of your evidence, politely ask if you can clarify. Sometimes they're juggling multiple cases and might miss important details in your documentation. Don't assume they see everything you see in your evidence.

UPDATE: Just finished my hearing and I think it went well! The referee was actually pretty nice and seemed to understand my situation. It only took about 25 minutes. I explained my work search activities in detail and she seemed satisfied with my evidence. She said I should receive a decision in 7-10 days. Fingers crossed! Thank you all for the advice - it really helped calm my nerves.

Glad to hear your hearing went well! That's such a relief after all the stress you've been through. The fact that the referee seemed satisfied with your evidence is definitely a positive sign. I went through something similar last year and when the referee was engaged and asking detailed questions about my job search (rather than seeming dismissive), I knew it was going in the right direction. The 7-10 day wait is tough but try to stay optimistic. Make sure to keep filing your weekly claims like others mentioned - that's crucial even while waiting for the appeal decision. Also, if by chance you don't hear anything after 10 business days, don't panic. Sometimes it takes a bit longer but that doesn't mean it's bad news. Really hoping you get that favorable decision and backpay soon. You've been through enough stress these past 14 weeks. Keep us posted when you hear back!