PA UC appeal timeline question - How soon after appeal deadline do hearings get scheduled?

I just submitted my appeal for a PA UC denial last week (got denied because they said I didn't provide enough job search proof, which is ridiculous because I definitely did). The letter says "appeal by" date of 5/17/2025, but I already sent mine in. Now I'm wondering how long until they actually schedule a hearing? Does anyone know the typical timeline? Also, is a hearing guaranteed or can the referee just make a decision based on the paperwork I submitted with my appeal? I included screenshots of all my job applications and emails from employers, so technically they have everything they need. Just trying to plan ahead since I need to request time off work if there's going to be a hearing. Thanks for any insights!

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20 comments

Liam O'Donnell

•9M

In my experience with PA UC appeals, there's almost always a hearing unless you withdraw the appeal. The referee needs to give both sides (you and the UC service center) a chance to present their case. Even with the documentation you sent, they'll want to hear from you directly. As for timing, it varies widely depending on their backlog. Currently, most hearings are being scheduled 4-6 weeks after the appeal deadline (not your submission date). They'll mail you a Notice of Hearing with the exact date/time and whether it's by phone or in-person, usually 10-14 days before the actual hearing date. Make sure all your contact information is updated in the system so you don't miss any communications. And yes, definitely plan to request time off - hearings are typically scheduled during business hours and last 30-60 minutes.

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Liam O'Donnell

•9M

The questions will focus specifically on the reason for your denial - your job search activities. They'll likely ask you to describe your job search efforts in detail - which employers you contacted, dates, methods (online, in-person, etc.), positions applied for, and any responses you received. Since that's the basis of your denial, be prepared to discuss each job search activity you reported and have your evidence organized and ready to reference. The referee will also likely ask about your understanding of the job search requirements and how you were tracking your activities. Keep your answers clear, honest, and to the point. If you don't remember something exactly, it's better to say so than to guess.

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Giovanni Moretti

•9M

When I had issues reaching PA UC about my appeal status, I tried for days with no luck - constant busy signals or disconnects after waiting for hours. Finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) which got me connected to an actual human at UC in about 20 minutes. They were able to tell me exactly when my hearing was scheduled and what to expect. Saved me so much stress! They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2 For your specific question - my appeal hearing was scheduled about 5 weeks after I submitted everything. And yes, there's almost always a hearing for job search requirement appeals because they need to assess your credibility.

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AstroExplorer

•9M

To address your question directly - PA UC appeal hearings are typically scheduled 4-8 weeks after the appeal deadline date (the "appeal by" date on your notice), not from when you actually submitted your appeal. Regarding whether a hearing is always required: For job search requirement denials specifically, yes, a hearing is almost always scheduled. This is because determining whether you met the work search requirements involves assessing both documentation and testimony about your efforts. The referee needs to evaluate your credibility and hear explanations that might not be apparent from just the documentation. Even though you submitted documentation with your appeal, the UC Service Center representative will also participate in the hearing to explain their reasoning for the denial. You'll have the opportunity to question their evidence and present your case. Important tip: While waiting, continue to file your weekly claims if you're still unemployed. If you win your appeal, you can only receive benefits for weeks you properly filed claims.

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AstroExplorer

•8M

Success rates vary depending on the specific circumstances, but job search requirement appeals can often be successful if you have concrete documentation. The key factors that typically lead to successful appeals include: 1. Clear evidence of your job search activities (application confirmations, emails, screenshots) 2. Meeting the minimum required number of work search activities each week (2 per week in PA) 3. Having a variety of different work search activities (not just all applications) 4. Being able to provide specific details about each employer contacted 5. Demonstrating consistent job search efforts throughout the claim period Make sure your documentation is organized chronologically and be prepared to explain any weeks where your activities might appear to fall short of requirements.

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Liam O'Donnell

•8M

While contacting your state representative can sometimes help with long delays or unusual situations, most appeals do proceed normally without this intervention. The current standard processing time for appeals is typically 4-8 weeks, though it can sometimes take longer during busy periods. If it's been more than 8 weeks since the appeal deadline and you haven't received a hearing notice, then reaching out to your state representative could be a good option. But for most people, the system does work within the expected timeframes.

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