PA UC appeal for disqualification due to CareerLink SSN issue and job separation mismatch - hearing scheduled

I've been through this exact same situation last month! The SSN issue with CareerLink is actually pretty common and fixable. For your hearing, bring screenshots showing the error message when you tried to register, any emails you sent to CareerLink support about the problem, and documentation of attempts to fix it. As for the job separation mismatch, you need to be prepared to explain exactly how your employment ended. Bring your termination letter, any communications with your employer about the separation, and a written timeline of events. The referee will probably ask both sides questions to determine what happened. I was able to win my appeal by demonstrating I made good faith efforts to register with CareerLink despite the system error. It helped that I had documented everything. Good luck!

had same probem with careerlnk. its because the old account still active in there system even if u cant see it. u need to call them direct and tell them to reset ur ssn in the system. dont wait for hearing

the job separation mismatch is actually the bigger issue here. if your employer told UC you quit but you say you were laid off, that's gonna be the main focus of the hearing. CareerLink stuff is fixable but the separation reason determines eligibility!!

I'm an employment attorney who frequently handles PA UC appeals. Let me clarify some important points: 1. For the CareerLink registration issue: This is generally considered a "technical" violation that can be remedied. Document your attempts to register and the errors you encountered. The fact that your SSN was linked to a previous account is a legitimate technical barrier. Take screenshots of error messages and note dates/times of your attempts. 2. For the job separation mismatch: This is indeed the more critical issue. What you've described (reducing hours to zero after you complained about working conditions) could potentially be considered a constructive discharge or even retaliation. Pennsylvania recognizes that a substantial reduction in hours can constitute good cause for leaving employment. 3. Evidence preparation: Create a detailed chronology of events with specific dates. Include any witnesses who can corroborate your account. If you complained about unsafe conditions via email or text, bring those. Any schedule changes showing the reduction to zero hours is critical evidence. 4. During the hearing: Stay calm and factual. The referee will likely ask why you didn't register with CareerLink - explain the technical barrier. For the separation issue, clearly explain the sequence of events that led to your separation. The standard for these appeals isn't as stringent as a court case. You need to demonstrate good faith efforts regarding CareerLink and establish that you had good cause related to your separation.

Yes, those text messages are excellent evidence - bring printed copies to the hearing. Definitely mention the unsafe conditions complaint as it establishes a potential causal connection between your protected activity (complaining about safety) and the reduction in hours. This could strengthen your case by demonstrating that the separation wasn't your fault. One more tip: PA unemployment appeals are recorded, so speak clearly and organize your thoughts. When the referee asks questions, answer directly and truthfully but don't volunteer information they don't ask for.

For the CareerLink issue specifically, I had the exact same problem in March and what worked for me was going to my local CareerLink office in person. I showed them my disqualification letter, explained the SSN issue, and they were able to override it in their system and provide me with documentation showing I completed the registration. Bring that documentation to your hearing as proof you've now fulfilled the requirement. As for the job separation, be prepared that the employer might bring attendance records, performance issues, or policy violations to justify their side. Having your timeline with specific dates is crucial for countering their claims.

my cusin had hearing last month and won becuz he brought alot of evidence, make sure u have everythng printed not just on ur phone

To answer your question about submitting evidence beforehand - you absolutely can and should. There should be instructions on your hearing notice for how to submit evidence in advance. This gives the referee time to review it before the hearing. But ALSO bring copies to the hearing as backup. And regarding the CareerLink documentation - when I visited in person, they gave me a printout with my registration confirmation number and date. They also helped me complete the required work search activities that were part of my back-weeks. Ask them to note in your file that you had a technical issue with your SSN that prevented earlier registration. One last tip - after my hearing, it took about 14 days to get the decision. If you win, they'll release all your back payments at once, which was a huge relief. Stay positive and be super prepared!