PA UC benefits ending in 2 weeks - how do I apply for an extension?
I'm getting really worried because my PA unemployment benefits are about to run out in just two weeks! I've been on regular UC for almost 6 months, but haven't found a job yet despite applying to at least 20 positions. Is there any way to get an extension? I heard someone mention you can file for additional weeks, but I can't find anything about that on the PA UC website. Does anyone know the process for applying for an extension? Do I need to call them or is there a form online somewhere? Really appreciate any help!
14 comments
Pedro Sawyer
Unfortunately, PA UC doesn't have traditional "extensions" anymore like during the pandemic. Once you exhaust your regular UC benefits (usually 26 weeks), that's it for your benefit year. You'd need to have new qualifying wages in a new base year to establish a new claim. Have you checked if you might qualify for other programs like Trade Adjustment Assistance if your job was lost due to foreign competition?
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Gemma Andrews
•Oh no, that's not what I wanted to hear! I worked in retail, so I don't think that Trade program applies to me. So there's really NOTHING after the regular benefits run out? What am I supposed to do??
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Mae Bennett
yea theres no extensions now i just went thru this last month. its super frustrating!! they had those pandemic extensions before but thats all gone. my advice is apply for cash assistance and snap benefits right away. pa.gov has the application
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Beatrice Marshall
•This is why the system is broken. You pay into unemployment for YEARS and then they cut you off after 6 months even when there's no jobs! I had to move back with my parents at 43 when my benefits ran out. So humiliating.
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Melina Haruko
I think u might b able 2 still get somethin called SEB (State Extended Benefits) but it depends on the unemployment rate in PA. U should def call and ask about it cuz sometimes they dont tell u all ur options. Good luck!
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Dallas Villalobos
•SEB hasn't been available in Pennsylvania since 2021. It only triggers on during periods of high unemployment when certain thresholds are met statewide. Currently, PA's unemployment rate doesn't meet those thresholds, so SEB is not active. The original poster needs to be aware of accurate information to make proper financial plans.
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Reina Salazar
When my benefits ran out in January I tried calling UC to ask about extensions but kept getting busy signals for WEEKS. Finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to an agent in about 30 minutes. There's a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2. The agent confirmed there aren't any extensions available right now but she did help me understand what other assistance programs I qualified for. Might be worth a call just to know all your options.
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Gemma Andrews
•Thanks for this tip! I've been trying to call them for days with no luck. I'll check out that service. Even if there aren't extensions, maybe they can tell me if there's anything else I might qualify for.
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Saanvi Krishnaswami
Look into PA Career Link immediately! They can help with job placement, resume help, and sometimes even training programs that might pay you while you learn a new skill. Also, if you have any medical conditions that make it hard to work, you might want to check if you qualify for other types of assistance. Don't wait until your benefits run out to start exploring options!!!
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Gemma Andrews
•I have been using Career Link but haven't had much luck. Maybe I need to be more aggressive with it. Are there specific programs there I should ask about? I do have some back issues but nothing that keeps me from working entirely.
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Dallas Villalobos
PA unemployment expert here. Let me clarify a few things: 1. Regular UC benefits in Pennsylvania last up to 26 weeks within your benefit year (which is 52 weeks from when you first applied) 2. There are currently NO extension programs available in PA (PEUC, EB, SEB all ended) 3. After your benefit year ends, you can file a new claim IF you have enough qualifying wages in your new base year 4. If you're still within your benefit year but exhausted benefits, you must wait until your benefit year ends to file again 5. In the meantime, PA offers these resources: - SNAP (food assistance) - LIHEAP (heating assistance) - Medical Assistance - Career Link services (job search, training) - PA WorkWear (clothing for interviews) You can apply for these at www.compass.state.pa.us
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Gemma Andrews
•Thank you for laying all this out so clearly. I appreciate knowing exactly where I stand. I'll look into the SNAP and other assistance programs right away. Do you know if I need to wait until my benefits actually run out to apply for those, or can I start the process now?
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Dallas Villalobos
You can apply for SNAP, LIHEAP, and Medical Assistance right away - no need to wait until UC benefits end. In fact, it's better to apply early since processing can take a few weeks. Your UC income will be counted for eligibility purposes, but many people still qualify while receiving benefits, especially if you have dependents. For Career Link services, you can access those anytime - they're free for everyone regardless of UC status.
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Gemma Andrews
•Just wanted to update everyone - I applied for SNAP yesterday and am working with Career Link on some job training options. Still nervous about the benefits ending but at least I'm taking steps now instead of waiting until I'm completely out of money. Thanks for all the advice!
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