PA UC overpayment notice doesn't match actual benefits received - how to dispute?

Yes, I received a similar notice last month. The amount they claimed I owed was almost double what I actually received! First, don't panic - this happens more often than you'd think. The discrepancy might be because they're including penalties and interest on top of what they think you were overpaid. You absolutely should appeal this within the 15-day window. Make sure to include copies of all your payment records showing what you actually received. Also check your Portal messages - sometimes there are explanations there that don't make it to the paper notice.

omg this happened to me too!!! so stressful!! mine was off by like $3k and i was like wtf???

The overpayment notice usually breaks down how they calculated the amount on page 2 or 3. Look for a section called "Overpayment Details" or something similar. They may be calculating that you were completely ineligible for certain weeks, so they want ALL of that money back plus penalties. And yes, you should continue filing your biweekly claims during the appeal process. Your current benefits might be reduced to repay the overpayment unless you request a waiver or win your appeal. When you file the appeal, be very specific about why you think the amount is wrong. Include ALL documentation showing your actual payment history. You can download your payment records from your UC account under "Payment History."

THE PA UC SYSTEM IS COMPLETELY BROKEN!!! I got an overpayment notice for $12,400 last year when I only collected $8,000 total. They claimed I didn't report work I DEFINITELY REPORTED. Took me 6 MONTHS to get it resolved. They make these "mistakes" all the time hoping people will just pay up instead of fighting it. APPEAL IMMEDIATELY and DOCUMENT EVERYTHING!!!!

I had a similar issue with my overpayment notice last month. After trying to call PA UC for two weeks with no luck (always busy signals or disconnects), I found a service called Claimyr that got me connected to an actual UC agent in about 30 minutes. Worth every penny because the agent was able to explain exactly why they thought I was overpaid and told me what documentation I needed for my appeal. You can see how it works at claimyr.com or watch their demo at https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2. Seriously saved me from having a complete nervous breakdown over this.

im going through something like this right now too. my notice said i owe $4300 but i only got like $3800 total. i think theres interest or penalties or something? idk the whole thing is confusing

For everyone dealing with this issue, here's what you need to know about PA UC overpayment notices: 1. There are two types: Fault and Non-Fault. Fault overpayments include a 15% penalty plus interest. 2. Always appeal within 15 days if you disagree - this is crucial. 3. If you can't pay it all at once, you can request a payment plan by calling UC or using your online portal. 4. In some hardship cases, you can request a waiver (especially for Non-Fault overpayments). 5. Keep filing your biweekly claims during the appeal process. 6. Gather all evidence: payment records, income reports, communication with UC, pay stubs, etc. 7. Be prepared for the hearing - they'll want specific evidence of why the overpayment is incorrect. Most importantly, don't ignore it hoping it will go away. The state can garnish wages, take tax refunds, and even place liens on property for unpaid UC debts.

Update: I finally got through to PA UC after using that Claimyr service someone mentioned. Turns out they have me confused with someone else with a similar name! The agent put a hold on the overpayment while they investigate. Just want to thank everyone for the advice - I was ready to have a heart attack over this. Will keep you posted on how it turns out!

I was going through something similar with my unemployment last year, totally different issue tho. They kept sending me letters saying I didn't complete my work search but I did every single week. Some of these govt workers just don't know what they're doing honestly.

@OP glad you got this sorted but BE CAREFUL - they told me the same thing about "investigating" and then did NOTHING for 2 months! Keep calling every week until they actually fix it in writing. Don't trust anything they say over the phone unless you get it in writing too!!!