PA UC benefit year expired but still unemployed - file new claim or reopen old one?

You HAVE to file a brand new claim once your benefit year expires! Don't try to reopen the old one, it won't work and will just delay things. The system is designed to make us jump through hoops. I went through this last summer and thought I could just continue filing weekly, but nope! Had to start the whole stupid process over again including the waiting week.

After your benefit year ends, you must file a new application. This is because each benefit year is a distinct period, and eligibility must be reassessed based on your work history during the previous 18 months. You cannot simply reopen your expired claim. However, as the previous commenter mentioned, to qualify for a new benefit year, you need to have earned wages during your current benefit year - specifically at least 6 times your weekly benefit amount. If you haven't worked at all, you might not be eligible. Keep documenting your work search activities (you need at least 3 per week). If you're finding the job search challenging, you might want to contact PA CareerLink for job search assistance.

my sister had same thing happen she filed new claim got denied then applied for snap benefits and cash assistance while keep looking for work its rough out there

You should file a new claim, but be aware of the requalifying requirements. Since your benefit year is ending, you'll need to have earned 6x your weekly benefit amount during your benefit year to qualify for a new claim. If you haven't met this requirement, you might look into extended benefits programs if they're currently available in PA (they change based on unemployment rates). You could also file a new claim anyway - sometimes there are exceptions or other programs you might qualify for that the system will automatically check. I'd recommend calling PA UC directly to discuss your specific situation before your benefit year ends. However, getting through to them can be challenging. I recently discovered Claimyr (claimyr.com) which helped me get through to an agent within 30 minutes after days of busy signals. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2 that shows how it works. Having a real conversation with an agent about your specific situation will give you the most accurate information.

has anyone else noticed they changed the website AGAIN?? i can never find anything on there anymore and the old links i saved dont work im so tired of them changing things every few months

To address your concerns about limited work during your benefit year: Yes, you should still file a new claim even if you don't meet the 6x earnings requirement. Here's why: 1. The system will automatically evaluate your eligibility based on all potential programs 2. There may be alternative base periods or other qualifying factors the system can identify 3. Filing maintains your presence in the system which is required for any potential future benefits While waiting for the determination, I recommend: - Apply for SNAP benefits as mentioned - Contact PA CareerLink for job search assistance and potential training programs - File your new UC claim before your current benefit year ends to avoid gaps Documenting your job search activities thoroughly is still important, regardless of your claim status.

just letting you know that manufacturing has been picking up in my area (western PA). my husband was out of work for 5 months but just got hired at a place that makes industrial equipment components. they said they're hiring a bunch of people after having a hiring freeze all last year. might be worth looking at similar companies near you?

did u try filing for partial bennefits during those 2 weeks of part time work? u might of qualified for something even while working a little

Update for anyone following this thread: The PA Department of Labor actually updated their guidance on this recently. Even if you don't meet the 6x earnings requirement, they're now automatically checking if you qualify under any special programs before issuing a denial. The key steps to follow are: 1. File your new application before your benefit year ends 2. Continue completing your weekly work search activities (minimum 3 per week) 3. If denied, appeal within the 15-day window if you believe there's been a mistake Also worth noting that the UC service center's phone hours changed recently - they're now open Monday-Friday 8am-4pm. This might help with planning when to call.