PA UC claim rejected due to active NJ claim - how to resolve interstate conflict?

You'll need to contact both states to resolve this. PA's system is detecting your NJ claim as still active in the interstate database even though you're not collecting. The fastest solution is to call NJ unemployment first and specifically request they mark your claim as inactive/closed in the interstate system. Get a confirmation number or rep name. Then call PA UC and explain that you've closed the NJ claim and need them to process your PA claim. Make sure to mention you have sufficient work history in PA since the NJ claim.

Same thing happened to me but with PA and Ohio! Total nightmare took me like 3 weeks to fix

This is a common interstate issue. The system SUCKS at handling people who worked in multiple states. I dealt with something similar between PA and Maryland. You need to contact the Interstate Claims unit specifically - not the regular UC people. Call the UC number but when the auto system asks why you're calling, say "Interstate claim issue" and it should route you correctly. Also keep ALL your NJ paperwork handy because they'll ask for your NJ claim number.

I would just contact NJ and tell them to cancel your claim there. That should fix it automatically in the system. Try emailing them too, not just calling.

Have you tried using Claimyr to get through to PA UC? After dealing with busy signals for days trying to resolve my interstate claim issue, I used their service at claimyr.com and got through to a PA UC agent in about 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works here: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2 - definitely worth it when you're dealing with something complicated like interstate claims that can't be fixed through the portal.

I work with interstate claims frequently. This is what you need to do: 1. Call New Jersey DOL at 856-507-2340 and request they update your claim status in the Interstate Connection Network (ICON) database 2. Ask for a confirmation number and the name of the rep 3. Wait 48-72 hours for the database to update (important step many forget) 4. THEN call PA UC and explain you've closed the NJ claim and the ICON database should be updated 5. Have your PA work history details ready (W2s, pay stubs showing you qualify under PA rules) Also, file your weekly claims in PA during this process even though they'll initially be denied. Once resolved, they can be retroactively processed.

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO DENY U!!! i had the same issue with NY and PA claims and they kept passing me back and forth for 6 WEEKS!!! each state blamed the other and meanwhile I couldnt pay rent!!! the interstate system is just another trick they use to deny benefits we EARNED!!!

UPDATE: I finally got through to NJ unemployment this morning using the number that was shared (THANK YOU!). They confirmed my claim there ended in September 2024 but for some reason wasn't marked as inactive in the interstate system. The rep said she updated it and gave me a confirmation number. She said to wait 3 business days before contacting PA. Fingers crossed this works!

Excellent progress! The 3-day wait is standard for the ICON database updates. Make sure when you call PA, you specifically mention that NJ has updated your status in the ICON system and provide that confirmation number. This will prevent them from simply telling you to call NJ again. Good luck!

FINAL UPDATE: Success! After waiting the 3 days, I couldn't get through to PA UC on the phone, so I used the Claimyr service someone mentioned here. Got connected to a UC rep in about 30 minutes. They confirmed they could now see the NJ claim was closed in their system. The rep processed my PA claim on the spot and said I should see payment for all weeks (including the ones during this mess) within 2-3 business days. What a relief! Thanks everyone for your help - this forum saved me!