To answer your follow-up question about timing: Once you report the correction, they'll process it within 1-3 business days typically. If you were entitled to partial benefits for that week (meaning your earnings were less than your weekly benefit amount), they'll adjust accordingly. If the adjustment results in an overpayment, they'll either deduct it from future payments or send you a notice with repayment instructions. The key thing is to correct this ASAP. The longer you wait, the more it looks intentional rather than a simple mistake. And yes, calling is definitely faster than the message center right now. Just be prepared for potential wait times.

I went through this exact same situation last year! Made the same mistake of not reporting wages for work I'd done but hadn't been paid for yet. Here's what worked for me: I called the UC line at 7:00 AM sharp when they opened (1-888-313-7284) and got through on the second try. The rep was actually really understanding about it being an honest mistake. They corrected it on the spot and gave me a confirmation number. The whole call took maybe 10 minutes once I got through. They recalculated that week and I did owe back about $180, but they just deducted it from my next two payments rather than asking for a lump sum. No penalty since I reported it myself before they caught it. Don't stress too much - this happens more often than you'd think!

That's awesome news that your payment came through so quickly! Three business days is pretty standard timing. Just wanted to add for anyone else reading this - make sure you keep filing those weekly certifications even after you start getting payments. I made the mistake of thinking I could skip a week when I was sick and it caused a whole mess with my claim that took weeks to sort out. The system is automated and doesn't care about your personal circumstances, so consistency is key. Keep up the good work with your job search and congrats again on getting through the initial hurdle!

Congrats on getting your determination and first payment! That's such a huge relief when you're dealing with bills piling up. For anyone else reading who might be in a similar situation - I went through this process last year and want to emphasize a few things that really helped me: 1. Screenshot or print EVERYTHING - your determination letter, payment confirmations, weekly certification receipts, etc. I kept a folder on my phone and computer with all UC-related documents. 2. Set phone reminders for your weekly certification day. I did Sunday mornings at 8am so I never forgot. 3. Keep a simple log of your work search activities with company names, dates, and how you applied. Even if you're doing more than the required 2 per week, having it organized helps if they ever audit you. The fact that your employer didn't contest is definitely a good sign, but like others mentioned, stay vigilant about keeping all your paperwork. The system can be unpredictable sometimes. Best of luck with your job search!

When I was on unemployment last year my payments would show up as "paid" on Tuesdays but I couldn't actually use the money until Thursday morning. My bank (M&T) told me there was nothing they could do to speed it up because it's how the ACH system works or something. Just sharing my experience!

I went through this same situation a few months ago with PA UC! Here's what I learned from experience: when it shows "paid" in the portal, that means PA has released the funds, but your bank still needs to process it. I have Wells Fargo and my first payment took 4 business days to actually be available for withdrawal even though it showed up in my account after 2 days (they put a hold on it). After that first payment though, all my weekly payments were available the next business day after showing "paid" in the system. Definitely call your bank ahead of time to ask about holds - some will waive them if you explain your situation and that you need the funds for bills. Also keep in mind that if your payment shows "paid" on a Friday, you're looking at potentially waiting until Tuesday due to weekends. Hope this helps and congrats on getting approved!

Something else to consider - once you receive your card, you can transfer the funds to your personal bank account through the Money Network mobile app or website. You don't have to use the physical card for purchases if you don't want to. Many people don't realize this option exists.

Just wanted to add that if anyone else runs into this issue, you can also check the status of your Money Network card by calling their automated system at 888-233-5916 and selecting the option to check card status without speaking to a rep. It'll tell you when it was mailed and the tracking info. Also, make sure your address is correct in your PA UC dashboard under "Personal Information" - I've seen people have issues because they moved and forgot to update it there. The card gets sent to whatever address is on file in the system, not necessarily your mailing address elsewhere.

Just wanted to add that you should also keep copies of any communication from your employer about the return date (emails, texts, etc.) even though they didn't file official paperwork with the state. If UC ever questions your situation, having documentation that shows your employer's intentions could be helpful. I've seen cases where people had issues later because they couldn't prove their employer had given them a specific return date. Better to have the documentation and not need it than the other way around.

I was in almost the exact same situation a few months ago! My employer gave us a return date but didn't file the official paperwork with PA UC. What I learned is that even though it feels pointless, you really do need to follow through with the work search requirements. I ended up doing a mix of online applications and attending a couple virtual job fairs - it actually wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. The key is just documenting everything properly like others mentioned. And honestly, having that backup plan of knowing what jobs were out there gave me some peace of mind, even though I was confident about returning to my original job. Better to be safe and keep your benefits flowing smoothly!