PA UC appeal process & using video evidence - do I need a lawyer for my hearing?

I went through an appeal last month. They scheduled my hearing about 4 weeks after I filed the appeal. The notice came by mail AND showed up in my PA UC dashboard. As for video evidence - YES you can absolutely use it! I submitted screenshots from security cameras that proved I was at work when they claimed I was absent. Make sure to submit your evidence at least a week before the hearing. I didn't hire a lawyer and won my case. The referee was actually really fair and let me explain everything. Just be organized, stick to facts, and have your evidence ready. Good luck!

my friend u NEED a lawyer!!!! the company will 100% have one and they will use tricks to make u look bad. my cousin tried to do it himself and they twisted his words around and he lost everything. dont risk it get a lawyer NOW

I had my appeal hearing last year and still remembering how nervous I was lol. Don't worry to much, the referee was nice and just asked alot of questions. My employer didnt even show up which made things easier. But ya they'll accept video if its relevevant to your case.

I've been through the PA UC appeals process twice (won both times). Here's what you need to know: 1) Hearing timeline: Currently averaging 3-5 weeks in PA. It varies by referee office workload. 2) Video evidence: Yes, it's admissible but must be submitted properly. When you receive your hearing notice, it will include instructions for submitting evidence. Follow them EXACTLY. Send it at least 5-7 days before the hearing. Also bring a copy to the hearing itself. 3) Lawyer question: For most unemployment appeals, you don't need a lawyer. I'd recommend one only if: - Your case involves complex legal issues - The employer has threatened legal action beyond UC - Large sums of money are involved (like substantial overpayment claims) - You're extremely uncomfortable speaking for yourself If you just need to prove factual events with video evidence, you can likely handle it yourself. Be organized, stick to relevant facts, and practice explaining your case briefly and clearly. Important: You won't receive benefits during the appeal unless you win. If you win, you'll get back payments for all eligible weeks.

I went through this nightmare last year! The UC system is DESIGNED to reject claims so companies don't have to pay!!! My hearing was delayed TWICE and took almost 8 WEEKS before I finally got a date. By then I had to borrow money from family just to survive!!! The system is BROKEN!!! And YES submit that video!!! My employer lied about me too and I didn't have proof so I LOST. Don't make my mistake!!!

After my experience trying to get through to PA UC during my appeal, I wish I'd known about Claimyr sooner. It got me connected to an actual UC representative in about 10 minutes when I'd been trying for days on my own. They helped clarify exactly what evidence I needed to submit for my hearing. Check out their service at claimyr.com - they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2. Seriously saved me so much frustration during an already stressful time.

A few important points about PA UC appeal hearings that might help: 1) The format is semi-formal. Hearings are now primarily conducted by phone, though some are still in-person. The referee will swear everyone in, explain the process, then question each party and allow cross-examination. 2) For evidence submission: When you receive your hearing notice, read the instructions carefully. You typically must submit evidence to both the referee AND the employer at least 5 business days before the hearing. 3) For video evidence specifically: It must be in a format the referee can access. Most accept standard formats (MP4, etc.). Include a brief written explanation of what the video shows and why it's relevant. 4) Preparation tips: - Write out a timeline of events - Make a list of key points you want to make - Practice explaining your situation in 2-3 minutes - Review the reason for denial in your determination letter - Have your evidence organized and easily accessible 5) During the hearing: - Be respectful and professional - Answer questions directly without rambling - If you don't understand a question, ask for clarification - Stick to facts rather than emotions - Take notes during employer testimony so you can address inaccuracies Approximately 40% of initial denials are reversed on appeal when the claimant has supporting evidence, so your video could make a significant difference.

I had my hearing last week and I was sooooo nervous but it was actually pretty chill. Just a phone call with the referee, me, and someone from HR. Took about 40 minutes. Still waiting on the decision though 😬

One more important tip about appeals: When you participate in the hearing, focus specifically on the reason stated in your denial letter. For example, if you were denied because they claimed you violated company policy, your evidence and testimony should directly address that specific reason. Many appellants make the mistake of discussing unrelated issues or workplace grievances that don't address the stated reason for denial. The referee can only overturn the decision based on evidence that contradicts the specific disqualification reason. Your video evidence sounds perfect for this if it directly disproves their claim about policy violation. Make sure to point out exactly what the video shows and how it contradicts their specific allegations.

Just wanted to add that you should also keep detailed records of everything during this process. I kept a journal with dates, times, and who I spoke with at UC - it really helped during my hearing when they asked about timeline details. Also, don't panic about the 2-week rent deadline. Many landlords will work with you if you explain you're waiting on UC appeal results, especially if you can show them your appeal paperwork as proof. I had to do this and my landlord gave me an extra 3 weeks once they saw I had a legitimate case pending. Your video evidence sounds really strong! Make sure to watch it yourself a few times and practice explaining what it shows in simple, clear terms. Sometimes what seems obvious to us isn't immediately clear to someone else viewing it for the first time.

I just went through this same situation about 6 months ago! My employer also lied about the reason for my termination and I was SO stressed about the whole process. Here's what helped me: For the hearing timeline - mine took about 5 weeks to get scheduled, but I've heard it can vary. The good news is that your video evidence sounds like exactly what you need! I had text messages that proved my case and they made all the difference. About lawyers - I was torn on this too but ended up representing myself and won. The referee was actually really patient and helped me understand the questions. Just make sure you practice telling your story clearly and stick to the facts that directly relate to why they said you were fired. One thing that really helped my stress was calling the local legal aid office. Even though I didn't hire a lawyer, they gave me a free 30-minute consultation where they explained what to expect at the hearing. Might be worth looking into if you have something similar in your area. Hang in there - having that video evidence puts you in a much stronger position than a lot of people! The hardest part is just waiting for the hearing date.