


Ask the community...
After you used Claimyr to reach someone, be sure to ask them specifically about a "financial hardship waiver" for the overpayment. If you can prove paying it back would cause financial hardship, they sometimes waive part or all of it. But they don't volunteer this information unless you specifically ask!
I just tried Claimyr and got through to someone at PA UC! The rep explained that they're reviewing all pandemic claims due to an audit. She looked at my file and said I'm missing proof that rideshare was my primary income (vs. a side job). I have 7 days to upload additional documentation before my hearing. This is actually helpful info that wasn't clear from the determination letter.
That's great news! Now you know exactly what to focus on for your appeal. Look for any 2020 tax documents that show your rideshare income was your primary source. Bank statements showing regular deposits from the rideshare companies could help too. The more documentation the better.
One additional point that might help ease your mind: PA UC regulations (specifically Chapter 65.63) state that when a claimant has earned six times their weekly benefit rate at a new job following a voluntary quit, the voluntary quit is no longer disqualifying. Since you worked at the tech job for 7 months, you've almost certainly met this requirement, which means your resignation from the accounting position shouldn't affect your eligibility. Keep certifying for benefits weekly while waiting for the determination. If approved, you'll receive all back payments for properly certified weeks.
my cousin works for UC (not saying this to brag lol) and she says they have a HUGE backlog right now because they updated their computer system in March and it's causing all kinds of problems. so prob nothing to do with your specific situation just general incompetence
OMG that makes so much sense!! My claim was stuck for 3 weeks and then suddenly approved with no explanation. The whole system is a MESS.
For your appeal hearing, organize all your evidence chronologically and make 3 copies of everything - one for yourself, one for the referee, and one for your employer (who may or may not show up). Practice explaining your situation clearly and concisely. Focus on these points: 1. Your sister's medical condition requiring care 2. That you notified your employer and requested accommodation 3. That your employer refused accommodation 4. That you had no alternative but to quit 5. That the performance review was unrelated or possibly retaliatory Bring a timeline of events with specific dates. Referees appreciate organization and clear presentation of facts. And yes, they will backpay all weeks if you win the appeal, so keep filing those weekly claims!
This is incredibly helpful. Thank you! I'll start organizing everything today. Do you know if the hearing will be over the phone or in person?
Most UC hearings are still being conducted by phone in PA, though some offices have returned to in-person. Your appeal acknowledgment letter will specify which type you'll have. Phone hearings are actually easier for most people - you can have all your notes and documents spread out in front of you without feeling nervous.
Submit documentation both ahead of time AND have it ready during the hearing. When you receive your hearing notice, it will have instructions for submitting evidence beforehand. Follow those exactly, and make sure to send it by the deadline. But also keep copies to reference during the hearing. As for your withheld final paycheck - that's a separate issue from UC. File a wage complaint with the PA Department of Labor & Industry ASAP. Employers cannot legally withhold your final paycheck for alleged PTO overages without prior written agreement. You can file the complaint online at www.dli.pa.gov.
Anyone know if the UC office is closed on Monday too? I was planning to call about my work search requirement question since I have a potential job interview coming up.
CosmicCadet
Don't panic - this is a system-wide change affecting all PA UC claimants. The Department of Labor & Industry sent notices in February about the switch from direct deposit to Money Network cards, but many people missed them or they got filtered as spam. Here's what you need to know: 1. All payments processed after March 1, 2025 are going to Money Network cards 2. Your money is not lost - it's being held in the Money Network system 3. Cards are being mailed but there's a significant backlog due to the volume 4. Once you receive your card, all pending payments will be available 5. You can re-establish direct deposit through the Money Network portal after activating your card In the meantime, if you need immediate help, contact your local PA CareerLink office. They sometimes have more direct communication channels with the treasury department that handles the payment systems.
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Liam O'Connor
•wait so you're saying we will eventually be able to go back to direct deposit? The papers that came with my card didn't mention anything about that! I hate having to use this card...
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StarSurfer
UPDATE: My Money Network card finally came in the mail today! All three of my missing payments were on there, so I didn't lose anything. The activation process was pretty simple - just called the number on the sticker and followed the prompts. Thanks everyone for your help! If anyone else is dealing with this, don't worry - your money is safe, just delayed because of this system change.
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Jamal Thompson
•Glad you got it sorted! Make sure you set a PIN you'll remember and keep the card activation confirmation number somewhere safe. I learned the hard way that if you have issues later, they'll ask for that confirmation number.
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