PA UC weekly certification blocked until 8/27 after missing Fast Track option - Can I call to get paid sooner?

Same thing happened to me in June. The system is SUPER confusing when it comes to reopening claims! I ended up having to wait the full time they told me (like 9 days) and couldn't get through on the phone no matter how many times I tried. They seriously need to fix this stupid system.

you can try calling but good luck getting thru lol

When you reopen a claim, you need to select both 'Fast Track' AND 'Back Track' options to process previous weeks immediately. Since you only selected Fast Track, the system is forcing you to wait until the next available filing date (8/27). Unfortunately, this is a common issue. You do have two options: 1) Call the UC service center at 888-313-7284 and ask them to manually process your weekly certification 2) Use the PA UC Live Chat function on their website However, both options can be extremely difficult to access due to high call volumes. When you do get through, explain that you missed the Back Track option during reopening, and they should be able to help you file for the missed week.

I had this exact issue back in April. The PA UC phone lines are basically impossible to get through on. I spent 3 days calling literally hundreds of times and got nothing but busy signals and disconnects. I ended up having to wait the full time before I could file again. It's ridiculous how they make everything so complicated.

I went through this nightmare last month! After trying for days to get through the regular phone lines with no luck, I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) and actually got connected to a UC agent in about 20 minutes. They have this video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/CEPETxZdo9E?si=WL1ZzVZWG3KiHrg2 The agent was able to reset my claim so I could file for the previous week. Saved me from having to wait the full reopening period. Honestly, it was the only way I could actually reach someone.

This reopening delay is built into the PA UC system by design. The proper procedure is: 1. Select Fast Track (which you did) 2. Also select Back Track (which you missed) 3. Complete both processes to enable immediate filing Without completing both steps, the system enforces the waiting period. While calling is an option, success rates are extremely low due to call volume. Your best approach is to: - Try calling precisely at 8:00 AM when lines open - Have your claim number and all documentation ready - Request a supervisor if the initial agent says they can't help - Be prepared with exact dates of missed certifications If you get through, they can override the system restriction and allow immediate certification, but I must warn you that getting through is extremely difficult.

just tried calling for a different issue today and gave up after an hour. system is broken af

To answer your follow-up question: If you do manage to reach an agent and they process your certification, the payment timeline will generally follow the normal schedule from that point. So if they process it tomorrow, you should receive payment within 2-3 business days after that, assuming there are no other issues with your claim. Regarding the best time to call, 8:00 AM when they first open is typically your best chance, but be prepared to redial continuously. Alternatively, some claimants report better luck in the final hour before closing (3:00-4:00 PM) when call volume sometimes decreases.

Quick update on my situation from last month - after I got through to the agent and they manually processed my certification, the payment still posted within the normal timeframe (2 business days for me). So if you can actually reach someone, they can definitely help solve this without making you wait until 8/27.

i miss the pandemic unemployment when u could actually talk to someone lol. pa uc has been garbage since way before that tho