UPDATE: I used Claimyr this morning and actually got through to PA UC in about 25 minutes! The agent was really helpful - turns out a company I interviewed with last month accidentally reported me as hired when they meant to report another candidate. The agent put a note on my account and is sending the issue to a supervisor who will review and fix it. She said I should keep filing my weekly claims and should see the issue resolved within 7-10 business days. Such a relief! Thanks everyone for your help!!

So glad you got this sorted out! This is exactly why I always recommend people file appeals right away and use services like Claimyr to actually reach someone at UC. The phone system is basically useless otherwise. Your story will definitely help other people who run into the same issue - it's scary how common these employer reporting mistakes seem to be. Hope your benefits get restored quickly!

For those still having issues after the system is reportedly working for others, try these steps: 1. Clear your browser cache completely (not just cookies) 2. Try using incognito/private mode 3. Disable any browser extensions 4. Try a completely different device if possible If none of that works, it's possible your specific account has a different issue. In that case, documenting your attempts and contacting UC directly is your best option. Remember that system issues are considered "good cause" for late filing if you need to explain a missed deadline.

I'm still having issues getting in as of 2:30pm. Tried all the troubleshooting steps mentioned here - cleared cache, used incognito mode, different browsers, even tried from my work computer. It's really frustrating because I was able to log in fine yesterday to check my account balance. Has anyone found any other workarounds? I'm worried about missing my certification deadline tomorrow and really don't want to deal with calling in if I can avoid it.

To answer your question about documenting work search activities: You'll record them when you file your bi-weekly claims. The system will prompt you to enter details about your work search activities for each week. However, you should also keep your own detailed records in case you're selected for an audit. PA UC can request proof of your work search activities going back up to two years. I recommend creating a simple spreadsheet or document with: date, employer/position, contact method (application, interview, etc.), contact details (website, email, phone), and any follow-up information. This makes it easy to transfer information to the bi-weekly claim forms.

Just wanted to add - make sure you have all your employment documents ready when you file! PA UC will need your Social Security card, driver's license, and employment records for the past 18 months. For seasonal work, they might also ask for your employment contract or termination letter showing it was a seasonal layoff (not a firing or quit). Having everything organized beforehand will make the application process much smoother. Good luck with your claim!

my mom works for the state (not UC but different department) and she says theres actually a special pandemic backlog team still working on cases from 2020-2021!!! so definitely worth trying!!!!!

I'm dealing with something similar right now! Filed in March 2020, got stuck in "pending review" forever, and just started pursuing it again last month. Here's what I've learned so far: 1. Your claim record is definitely still in their system - I was able to log into my old UC account and see everything from 2020 2. The key is getting to someone who understands pandemic-era claim issues. Regular phone reps might not know the special procedures 3. I found success by calling first thing Monday morning around 8:02 AM - still took 45+ minutes but I got through When I finally talked to someone, they told me there's a specific "COVID Claims Review Unit" that handles these exact cases. They transferred me and I'm now waiting for a callback within 10 business days. The agent said many claims from that period are being successfully resolved, especially ones that were never officially denied. Don't give up! The fact that your sister got benefits in the identical situation is actually strong evidence in your favor. Document everything and be persistent. I'll update if my review comes through!

Keep in mind that even after the hearing, the referee has 14 days to issue a decision, though many come sooner. The entire process from appeal to decision typically ranges from 4-8 weeks depending on current caseload. Document everything and be extremely prepared for your hearing. I'd recommend writing out your key points beforehand so you don't forget anything important when you're nervous during the hearing.

Just went through this process myself - got my acknowledgement letter in February and had my hearing exactly 3.5 weeks later. One thing I wish someone had told me earlier is to start preparing your evidence NOW while you're waiting. I created a simple timeline document with dates, what happened, and who was present for each event. Also gathered my employee handbook, any emails about the layoff, and my termination paperwork. Having everything organized made the hearing so much less stressful. The waiting is the hardest part but use that time productively to build your case. You got this!