PA UC benefits exhausted - should I keep filing weekly claims after 26 weeks?

same boat last yr... YES keep filing! PA sometimes adds extension programs and if ur already filing it makes things go smoother if they do. plus it proves ur still looking 4 work

The answer depends on your specific circumstances, but generally yes, you should continue filing your weekly claims even after exhausting your regular UC benefits. Here's why: 1. If any extension programs become available (like during economic downturns), having continuous weekly claims already filed makes the transition seamless 2. It creates an official record showing you're still unemployed and searching for work 3. It keeps you in the system as actively seeking employment Remember to continue your work search activities (minimum 2 per week in PA) and document everything. This is also a good time to connect with PA CareerLink for additional job search assistance and possibly training opportunities.

When my benefits ran out last year I was dealing with the same question. I called PA UC for DAYS trying to get an answer and kept getting disconnected or busy signals. Finally I found a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to an actual agent in about 45 minutes. The lady confirmed I should keep filing weekly even with $0 balance just in case extensions come through. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2 - it was worth it just to get a clear answer from an actual UC rep instead of guessing.

Quick question - are you sure you've actually exhausted all 26 weeks? Sometimes the system can show incorrect information. Have you received an official notice that says your benefits are exhausted?

THEY DON'T CARE ABOUT US!!! I filed for 6 months after my benefits ran out and NOTHING HAPPENED. The whole system is designed to make us give up. No extensions since the pandemic programs ended. They just want us to take minimum wage jobs that don't even cover rent. Don't waste your time unless there's a recession and Congress approves new extensions.

You should absolutely continue filing weekly claims after exhausting your regular UC benefits. Here's the PA UC policy: 1. Maintaining your claims history creates a continuous record of unemployment 2. If any extension programs become available (through federal or state action), you'll be automatically considered 3. Some programs require consecutive weeks of filing to qualify 4. Your work search documentation remains current and compliant Also, have you considered applying for other assistance programs while you continue your job search? SNAP benefits, LIHEAP (for utilities), and local assistance programs might help bridge the gap. PA 211 can connect you with resources in your area.

My cousin kept filing after his benefits ran out last year and then randomly got backpay when they approved some emergency thing for certain industries. Not sure if thats still happening tho

Thanks everyone for the advice! I'm definitely going to keep filing my weekly claims even with the $0 balance. Seems like there's really no downside to it and potentially some upside if any extensions come through. I'll also check out PA 211 and LIHEAP as suggested. Really appreciate all the help during this stressful time.

I went through this exact same situation in 2023 - exhausted my regular UC benefits but kept filing weekly claims for about 3 months. Even though I wasn't getting paid, when a small federal extension program became available later that year, I was automatically enrolled and got retroactive payments for all those weeks I kept filing. It literally saved me from losing my apartment. The key is to keep doing your work searches and document everything properly. Also, don't forget to check if you qualify for any state programs like emergency rental assistance or food banks in your area while you're job hunting. Hang in there!