Just wanted to update - my payment finally went through this morning. Seems like it was just the holiday delay. Everyone else get theirs?

I'm so glad I found this thread! I was starting to freak out because my payment didn't come through yesterday like usual either. Reading everyone's experiences with the Presidents Day delay makes me feel so much better. I had no idea federal holidays could mess with the timing like that. Going to download that Money Network app right now so I get notifications, and definitely looking into switching to direct deposit after this. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - it really helps to know you're not alone when these delays happen!

I used to work as a paralegal helping with UC appeals, and I've seen these cases go both ways. The deciding factor is usually whether the claimant can prove they remained able and available for full-time work despite the freelance activities. Bring a detailed calendar showing when your husband did the freelance work versus when he was job searching, interviewing, etc. Also, if the consulting work was in any way different from his regular occupation (different skills, industry, etc.), make sure to emphasize that. Good luck!

I'm dealing with something similar right now - got laid off from my retail job in January and have been doing some freelance graphic design work while job hunting. I've been reporting everything but now I'm terrified they'll come after me too! This thread is super helpful though. I didn't realize there was such a specific distinction between "sideline work" and "self-employment" in PA's eyes. Quick question for those who've been through appeals - about how long does the whole process take? I'm worried if I get hit with an overpayment notice, how much time I'd have to prepare a defense. Also, does anyone know if you can get a lawyer for these hearings or is it mostly just you representing yourself? Really hoping your appeal goes well OP! The fact that your husband reported everything and was actively job searching should work in your favor.

my cousin said just ignore it they cant really do anything lol

Update: I filed my appeal online yesterday and requested a breakdown of the overpayment calculation. I also found the waiver form and am filling that out as a backup in case the appeal doesn't work. I'm still stressed but feeling a bit more in control now. Thanks everyone for the advice!

Based on my experience dealing with PA UC and 1099 work, you should check if you're truly a contractor or if you should be classified as an employee. There are specific rules about this. If your boyfriend's family controls when and how you work, you might actually be misclassified. This matters because: 1. Employees get unemployment protection 2. Contractors don't 3. Misclassification is common to avoid payroll taxes I went through something similar and ended up filing an SS-8 form with the IRS to determine my status. Just something to consider.

Just wanted to add my experience - I was in a similar spot with PA UC and 1099 work. The key thing that saved me from headaches later was keeping detailed records of EVERYTHING. I created a simple spreadsheet tracking: - Exact dates I worked each week - Hours worked - Amount earned per week - When I reported it on my UC claim - Screenshots of my weekly claim submissions This documentation was a lifesaver when PA UC questioned some of my reports months later. They wanted proof of when I worked vs when I got paid, and having those records made the whole process smooth. Also, don't stress too much about the tax situation - yes, you'll owe more as a 1099, but $300/week is still decent income. Just open a separate savings account and automatically transfer 25-30% of each payment there. You'll thank yourself at tax time! Good luck with the caregiver position - it sounds like meaningful work even with all the bureaucratic hassles.

UPDATE: I finally got through to someone at UC this morning! The rep said I can request an official benefit payment history letter through my dashboard (under the Documents section), and this should satisfy what my SSDI caseworker needs. She also said since I reported both my disability status and SSDI income when I applied for UC, and was approved anyway, I shouldn't have to repay anything. Apparently there's a note in my file from the initial UC interviewer acknowledging my situation. Such a relief! Will post again if anything changes, but wanted to thank everyone for their help and advice!

So happy to hear you got it resolved! This gives me hope for others in similar situations. Your experience really highlights how important it is to be completely transparent when applying for benefits - the fact that you disclosed everything upfront and have documentation of that conversation saved you from a potential nightmare. For anyone else reading this thread who might be in a similar spot: Amina's case shows that if you're honest about your circumstances and the agencies approve you anyway, you're likely protected from having to repay benefits later. The key is keeping records of ALL communications and being proactive about getting official documentation when questions arise. Thanks for updating us with the positive outcome - these success stories are so valuable for the community!