Thank you all SO much for the helpful advice! I feel much more prepared now. I've gathered all my medical documents, printed out the text messages, and created a timeline of events. I also found emails from HR confirming they couldn't accommodate my restrictions. I'll practice explaining my case clearly and make sure my phone is fully charged on the 23rd. Will update after the hearing to let everyone know how it goes. Fingers crossed!

You're absolutely on the right track with your preparation! I had a very similar case in 2023 - workplace injury, doctor cleared me with light restrictions, employer said no dice. Won my appeal because I could prove I was "able and available" for work within my medical limitations. One thing that really helped my case was showing I understood the difference between being unable to do my SPECIFIC job versus being unable to work at all. The referee seemed to appreciate that distinction. Also, if you have any evidence of other employees getting accommodated for restrictions (even temporary ones), that could strengthen your argument that your employer's refusal was unreasonable. Quick heads up - they might ask about whether you looked for other work during this period. Having those office job applications you mentioned ready to discuss will be perfect. Shows you were actively seeking work that matched your capabilities. You sound well-prepared! The fact that you have the initial accommodation agreement AND the reversal in writing is huge. That's exactly the kind of evidence that wins these cases.

UPDATE: Finally got through to someone at UC after calling repeatedly this morning! Turns out there was an overpayment of $1,450 from when I started my part-time job. They say I reported my start date incorrectly (though I'm 99% sure I didn't). The good news is I was able to set up a payment plan - $60/month which I can manage. They're sending me all the paperwork so I can review exactly what happened. The person I spoke with said I can still file an appeal if I have documentation showing I reported correctly. Thanks everyone for your advice! Definitely don't ignore these notices like I almost did.

So glad you got through and got it sorted out! $60/month is definitely manageable. Definitely get that "record of claim" document Emma mentioned - I had a similar situation where I was 100% sure I reported correctly, and the record showed I was right. Ended up getting the overpayment reversed completely after my appeal. Keep copies of EVERYTHING they send you, and if you do decide to appeal, don't let the payment plan stop you from fighting it if you truly believe you reported correctly. You can maintain the payment plan while the appeal is pending. Good luck!

Just want to add my experience - I had a similar situation with a family emergency that kept me from filing for 3 weeks. The reopening part was actually easier than I expected, but getting those missed weeks paid was a nightmare. Here's what I wish I'd known: 1) Don't just send one message about the Credit for Weeks of Ineligibility - follow up every few days until someone responds, 2) If possible, get a doctor's note that specifically mentions you were "unable to file unemployment claims" during your hospital stay (not just that you were sick), and 3) Screenshot everything in case they lose your documentation. The whole process took me 2 months but I did eventually get all my backpay. Stay persistent and don't let them brush you off!

Hey there! I'm so sorry to hear about your hospitalization - pneumonia is no joke and I hope you're recovering well. I actually went through something very similar about 8 months ago when I had emergency surgery and missed 3 weeks of filings. Here's what I learned: The good news is that PA does have a process for this exact situation, but you really need to be proactive about it. First, definitely reopen your claim ASAP through the online portal. When it asks why you didn't file, select medical reasons and be specific about the hospitalization dates. The key thing everyone's mentioned about "Credit for Weeks of Ineligibility" is absolutely correct - that's the official term you need to use. But here's something I learned the hard way: when you send that message through the system, also include the phrase "temporary medical inability to file claims" because that's what triggers them to look at it as a filing issue rather than a work availability issue. Also, if you can get your doctor to write a letter stating that you were "medically unable to perform normal activities including filing unemployment claims" during your hospital stay and recovery period, that really helps. The more specific the better. Don't get discouraged if it takes a while - mine took about 6 weeks total but I did get every penny of backpay. You've got this!

my cousin had this happen with his job at the warehouse and he got to keep getting paid the whole time the appeal was going on. then he won anyway so it didnt matter. dont stress too much!!

Just went through a similar employer appeal situation last fall - definitely keep filing those weekly claims religiously! The key thing that saved me was having ANY written documentation about the separation. Even if it's just an email from your supervisor mentioning staffing changes or budget cuts, that can be huge evidence in your favor. Also, during the hearing, stick to the facts and don't let emotions take over even if your former employer says frustrating things. The referee will focus on the legal standards for unemployment eligibility, not personal drama. You've got this!

UPDATE: I got through to someone at UC using that Claimyr service. They were actually really helpful and explained that the referee will make a decision within 14 days typically. The agent noted my file with an explanation of why I missed the hearing. They also said I should immediately file for reopening once I get the decision if it's not in my favor. Just wanted to update everyone and say thanks for all the advice!

Hang in there Ruby! I went through almost the exact same situation in 2022. I also thought "phone hearing" meant they'd call me, but it turned out I needed to call THEM at a specific number during the hearing time. The confusion is totally understandable because the notices aren't super clear about this. When I missed mine, the referee took about 12 days to decide and unfortunately ruled against me since I was a no-show. BUT - and this is important - I filed the reopening request immediately after getting the decision letter and explained the confusion about the hearing format. They granted the reopening and I got a second hearing where I was able to present my case properly and won! The key is acting fast once you get that decision letter. Don't beat yourself up too much - this happens to more people than you'd think. Keep checking your mail and be ready to file that reopening request right away if needed.