PA UC confusion: Using return-to-work letter for benefits while deciding to stay home with kids

This is a really important question because you could end up with serious problems. If you have a return-to-work letter and don't go back, that's technically refusing suitable work which can disqualify you from benefits entirely. PA UC could find out if your employer reports that you didn't return as scheduled. My advice: either (1) do the work search and don't use the letter exemption, or (2) formally resign from your position by notifying your employer in writing that you won't be returning, then continue filing with work search requirements.

Lots of ppl do this with no problem. UC doesnt check unless employer says something. But dont quote me on that lol

Same thing happened with my sister-in-law last year! She had to pay back like $4500 and got a 6 month disqualification when they found out she didn't go back on her return date. Just saying be careful!!!

If you know you're not returning to work, then you ABSOLUTELY MUST do the work search requirements every week!!! Any attempt to use that letter to avoid work search while having no intention to return is fraud - plain and simple. The UC office will eventually find out and then you'll be facing benefit repayments plus penalties. Not worth the risk AT ALL.

Have u tried calling UC to ask them directly? Thats what id do

When I was trying to get through to PA UC about a similar issue last month, I was getting nowhere with the regular phone lines. I finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an actual agent in about 20 minutes instead of endless busy signals. They have a video showing how it works at https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2. The agent explained everything clearly and I was able to avoid making a mistake that would have messed up my benefits. For something this important, talking directly to UC is definitely the safest approach.

Here's what you need to know about this situation from a legal perspective: 1. If you have a definite return date from your employer and voluntarily choose not to return, this is considered a voluntary quit under PA UC regulations. 2. You must report this change in status to UC immediately - continuing to collect benefits while knowingly not planning to return to work could be considered fraud. 3. You should formally notify your employer in writing about your decision not to return. 4. Continue completing all work search requirements (applying to 2+ jobs weekly and completing 1+ work search activity) while your claim is adjusted. 5. Be prepared that this may affect your eligibility since voluntarily quitting without good cause can disqualify you from benefits. The most important thing is transparency with both your employer and PA UC to avoid any issues down the road.

Just to add one more thing - make sure when you talk to your employer you get clarity on your official separation date. That becomes really important for UC purposes because it establishes when your benefits eligibility might change. Document EVERYTHING including who you spoke with and when.

Update: I called my employer this morning and explained the situation. They were actually really understanding and agreed to process my resignation effective immediately rather than waiting until the return date. They said they'll update UC about my status change. I've already started doing the work search activities and will keep documentation of everything. Thanks everyone for the advice - you helped me avoid what could have been a really bad situation!

So glad you handled this the right way! This is exactly what everyone should do in this situation. The fact that your employer was understanding and willing to work with you shows how important it is to be upfront and honest. You've protected yourself from fraud charges and potential thousands in repayments. Plus now you can focus on your job search without worrying about any legal issues hanging over your head. Thanks for updating us - this will be really helpful for anyone else who finds themselves in a similar situation!

Really appreciate you sharing your update! Your situation is a perfect example of why transparency is always the best policy with unemployment benefits. It's so easy to think about taking shortcuts when you're stressed about money and dealing with little kids, but the potential consequences just aren't worth it. The fact that your employer was cooperative shows that most reasonable people understand that circumstances change, especially when childcare is involved. Your approach of getting everything documented and staying on top of the work search requirements is exactly what others in similar situations should follow. Hope your job search goes smoothly!