I'm going through something similar right now - my former employer also filed a late appeal claiming misconduct when I was clearly laid off due to budget cuts. What really helped me was creating a detailed timeline with dates of everything that happened leading up to my termination. I also gathered any text messages or emails that showed the real reason for the layoff. One thing I learned is that you should also prepare for them to ask about your job search efforts during the hearing. The referee might want to know that you've been actively looking for work while collecting benefits. Keep records of where you've applied and when. The waiting is definitely the hardest part, but remember that the burden of proof is on them to show you committed misconduct, not on you to prove you didn't. Stay strong and stick to the facts!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this stress! I went through a similar situation about 8 months ago when my retail job let me go due to "restructuring" and then my manager tried to appeal claiming I had attendance issues (which was totally false - I had maybe called out sick twice in a year). A few things that really helped me: 1. Screenshot or print EVERYTHING from your termination - any emails, texts, or written notices that mention the real reason (business being slow) 2. If you had good performance reviews or any positive feedback before the layoff, gather that too 3. Write down names of any coworkers who witnessed conversations about the business struggling The fact that they filed late is honestly a huge advantage for you. In my case, the referee spent the first 10 minutes of the hearing just grilling my former employer about why they missed the deadline. They had no good answer and seemed really unprepared. Also, don't be intimidated if they bring their HR person or lawyer to the hearing. I was terrified about going up against "professionals" but the referee was totally fair and just wanted to hear the facts from both sides. You know what actually happened better than anyone! Keep us updated on how it goes - we're rooting for you! 💪

I went through almost the exact same scenario about 8 months ago - left two part-time jobs for what I thought was a better full-time opportunity, then got let go after 6 weeks for "performance issues." The anxiety while waiting for the appeal hearing was terrible, but I wanted to share that it worked out in my favor. The hearing officer was very clear that since I was involuntarily terminated from my most recent job (the office position) for non-misconduct reasons, that's what determined my eligibility - not the previous voluntary separations. My former part-time employer also appealed the charges, but like others have mentioned, that's separate from whether you qualify for benefits. What really helped during my hearing was having a clear timeline of events and being able to articulate that leaving the part-time jobs for a higher-paying full-time position was a reasonable decision. From filing the appeal to getting my first payment took about 2 months total, but I did receive back pay for the weeks I was waiting. Hang in there - based on what you've described, you have a strong case!

I'm going through something very similar right now and this thread has been incredibly helpful! I left my retail job last month to take what I thought was a better position at a local company, but they let me go after just 3 weeks saying I wasn't "the right fit." When I filed for UC, my old retail employer is now listed as the chargeable employer and they're fighting it. Reading everyone's responses here makes me feel much more confident about my case - it sounds like as long as we were terminated from our most recent jobs for non-misconduct reasons, we should still qualify for benefits regardless of the previous employer appeals. The documentation advice is really valuable too. I'm going to make sure I have my termination letter, the original job offer, and a clear timeline ready. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - it really helps to know we're not alone in dealing with this confusing system!

One more thing about your UC claim - make sure you answer the weekly certification questions correctly. If you make a mistake it can delay payments. The question about being "able and available for work" means physically able to work and available (not on vacation). Also, report ANY earnings during the week you earned them, not when you get paid. These are common mistakes that cause payment delays.

Hey Aisha, I'm really sorry you're going through this - I know how scary it is to lose your job and insurance at the same time. I went through something similar last fall and wanted to share what worked for me. First, definitely apply for Medicaid online like Carmen suggested - don't trust what they tell you over the phone. The income calculation is more complex than they make it sound, and they look at your projected annual income, not just that one final paycheck. For your medications, while you're waiting for coverage to kick in, check if your doctor has any samples or if the manufacturer has a savings program. My doctor gave me a 30-day supply of samples when I explained my situation, which bought me time to get my new insurance sorted out. Also, some pharmacies (like Walmart and Costco) have really cheap generic programs - like $4 for a 30-day supply of common medications. Might be worth asking your pharmacist if your meds are available as generics on one of those programs. The healthcare.gov Special Enrollment Period is definitely your backup if Medicaid doesn't work out. You have 60 days from losing coverage to enroll, so don't panic about timing. You've got this! It feels overwhelming now but there are options. Keep us posted on how it goes!

Good news - completing the questionnaire should resolve this fairly quickly in most cases. Make sure to answer all questions accurately and mention specifically that you received severance, which was likely misreported as regular wages. You can check your claim status every few days, and once the issue is resolved, any held payments should be released automatically. If it's not resolved within 2 weeks after submitting your questionnaire, then you should definitely try calling.

Just wanted to update everyone - I called PA UC this morning using that Claimyr service someone mentioned and got through in about 15 minutes! The rep was super helpful and could see exactly what happened. My employer did report the severance payment incorrectly as regular wages, which triggered both the new hire audit and the able/available issue. She cleared both issues while I was on the phone and said my held payment should be released within 24-48 hours. Thanks everyone for the advice - definitely call if you can get through rather than just waiting on the questionnaire!

I'm so sorry you're going through this stress! I went through something similar when my benefits ended unexpectedly early. One thing that helped me was immediately applying for other assistance programs while I figured out my next steps. Since you mentioned staying home with kids, definitely look into WIC if you haven't already - it's specifically for families with young children and can help with groceries. Also, many local churches and community organizations have emergency assistance funds that can help with utilities or rent for a month or two while you transition. It's not ideal, but these resources can buy you some breathing room to plan your next move without panicking. Hang in there - this situation is temporary even though it feels overwhelming right now.

I'm really sorry you're dealing with this shock - the PA UC system's terminology is incredibly misleading! Just to add one more resource that might help: if you're looking for immediate assistance while transitioning, check out 211 (dial 2-1-1 or visit pa211.org). They can connect you with local food banks, emergency financial assistance, and other support services in your area. Also, some utility companies have hardship programs that can defer payments for a few months if you call and explain your situation. I know it's scary when your financial plans get turned upside down like this, but there are more safety nets available than you might realize. Take it one day at a time and don't be afraid to ask for help - that's what these programs are there for!