Pennsylvania Unemployment Extension
Pennsylvania unemployment extension claims are allowed when the state of Pennsylvania unemployment rate reaches a certain level. The level of unemployed workers is preset by state law. Workers can file for a Pennsylvania Unemployment Extension if they are still unemployed when they have used up all their unemployment benefits from their initial claim.
The Department of Labor declares the Extended Benefit period. In Pennsylvania the unemployment level for extended benefits has been reached and the unemployment benefit period was officially extended by the Department of Labor on February 21, 2009. Extended unemployment benefits last for at least 13 weeks for the unemployed worker who qualifies for it. After the 13 weeks of extended benefits, if the worker is still not employed, a subsequent extended benefit claim can be filed starting on the 14th week.
If you have collected the maximum amount of unemployment benefits allowed under your initial claim, you will receive a Notice of Financial Determination in the mail. You must file for Extended Benefits on paper and can not do it on the phone system or the internet claim filing system. After you fill out the form, mail it to the address on the mailing instructions. Call the Service Center if you do not receive your Financial Determination within 10 days of receiving your final payment. The number is 1-888-313-7284.
To be eligible for a Pennsylvania Unemployment Extension, you must have been unable to find work and remain totally or partially unemployed. An extended benefit claim can not be filed until you have exhausted your maximum amount of unemployment benefits. You must also not be ineligible for unemployment under federal laws. You must further be actively looking for employment and be able and available for work if and when it is offered.
You may not qualify for a Pennsylvania Unemployment benefit extension if you voluntarily quit your job or if you were fired for misconduct.
