One more important thing I forgot to mention: Make sure you've created your PA CareerLink profile BEFORE you file your first weekly claim. This is required for everyone on UC now, and if you don't have it set up, your payments can be delayed. Go to pacareerlink.pa.gov to register.

I went through something very similar in 2023. You're definitely eligible to file for UC since you're medically cleared and your employer doesn't have a position for you. A few things that helped me: 1. File your claim ASAP - don't wait. The sooner you start the process, the better. 2. When they ask about other income, be upfront about the workers comp settlement. Transparency is key. 3. Keep detailed records of everything - settlement docs, medical clearance, any communication with your employer. 4. Your claim will likely go into review status for a few weeks while they verify everything, but that's totally normal. In my case, the settlement didn't affect my weekly benefit amount because it was for the injury itself, not wage replacement. The review took about 3 weeks and then I got all my back pay. Just be patient with the process and keep filing your weekly claims even during the review period.

By the way, since your employer didn't show up, did the referee explain to you what that means procedurally? Sometimes they'll put on the record that the employer's absence means they can't contest certain facts. Did anything like that happen?

Just checking back - has your decision arrived yet? Most people should hear something within 5-7 business days. If it's been more than 10 business days, you might want to try contacting the Referee Office directly.

I'm in a very similar situation as a former gig worker and wanted to share something that might help. When I was researching this issue, I found out that Pennsylvania actually has a specific process for employment status determinations called "Request for Determination of Employment Status" (form UC-145). You can request this form when you call, or sometimes they'll start the process automatically if you explain your situation well enough. The key is to really emphasize the control aspects that Benjamin mentioned - the GPS monitoring, mandatory shifts, performance requirements, and uniform policies all point strongly toward employee classification. I've seen cases where delivery drivers were successfully reclassified retroactively, which not only qualified them for UC but also meant their company owed back taxes and penalties to the state. One more thing - if your delivery company is a major one (DoorDash, Uber Eats, etc.), there might already be ongoing cases or precedents in PA regarding their classification practices. The UC office will have more information about this when you call. Don't let them dismiss you quickly on the phone. Ask specifically for the employment determination process and be prepared to provide detailed examples of how your work was controlled. You've got a much stronger case than you initially thought!

Just wanted to add one more resource that might help while you're waiting to get through to PA UC - the Department of Labor & Industry has a worker misclassification hotline at 1-866-4-USWAGE (1-866-487-9243). Sometimes it's easier to get through there first to discuss whether you might have a misclassification case before dealing with the main UC phone system. They can also help you understand your rights if you were indeed misclassified - you might be entitled to back wages, overtime pay, and other benefits beyond just unemployment compensation. It's worth exploring all your options since it sounds like your delivery company was exercising significant control over your work. Also, keep in mind that if you do end up filing for an employment determination, the process can take several weeks, so don't wait if you need immediate financial assistance. Look into those local resources others mentioned (food banks, 211, emergency assistance programs) to help bridge the gap. Really hoping this works out for you - it's clear from reading this thread that there are way too many gig workers getting taken advantage of by companies that want all the control of having employees without any of the responsibilities that come with it.

UPDATE: I just checked my account again today and my 1099-G is now available! For anyone else looking, I found it under the "View Tax Form 1099G" option after logging into my dashboard. It shows the total benefits paid and the tax withholding amount. Thanks everyone for your help!

Great to hear they're finally up! For anyone still waiting, I'd recommend checking your dashboard every few days rather than calling - the phone lines are usually swamped this time of year. Also, if you can't find the "View Tax Form 1099G" option that Emma mentioned, try looking under different sections like "Documents" or "Forms" - sometimes the navigation varies slightly between accounts. Once you download it, make sure to save a copy since these portals sometimes go down for maintenance during tax season.

I think ur gonna be fine because u were laid off and didnt quit. My cousin just got benefits last month and she only worked like 4 months at her job before getting laid off. The lack of work thing is the important part i think

Just wanted to chime in as someone who went through this exact situation about 6 months ago! I was a seasonal landscaper, only worked 14 weeks but made around $18K during that time. Initially got denied for not meeting the 18-week requirement, but I appealed and provided pay stubs showing my high quarterly earnings. Took about 5 weeks total but eventually got approved under the alternative eligibility. The appeals process was actually pretty straightforward - just had to fill out a form explaining my situation and provide wage documentation. Since you already applied and mentioned lack of work as the reason, you're on the right track. Keep all your pay stubs handy just in case you need them for an appeal!