Pennsylvania Unemployment Compensation Claims
Helping Workers Navigate Denied or Contested Benefits — Kennedy Law
Losing a job is difficult enough—but being denied unemployment benefits can make the situation even more stressful. In Pennsylvania, workers who lose their jobs, or who are forced to resign from them, through no fault of their own are often eligible for unemployment compensation (UC). However, employers frequently contest claims, and the Department of Labor & Industry may deny benefits for reasons that are confusing, unfair, or wrong. At Kennedy Law, Mr. Kennedy helps individuals fight for the unemployment benefits they deserve.
What You Should Know About Unemployment Claims in Pennsylvania:
- Unemployment compensation provides temporary income to eligible workers. In Pennsylvania, most employees are covered by the UC system, which offers weekly payments after job loss.
- Not all job separations disqualify a worker. Employees who are laid off, furloughed, or even fired may still be eligible—especially if the separation was not due to “willful misconduct.”
- Voluntary resignations can still qualify in some cases. If an employee quit for a compelling reason—such as unsafe working conditions, harassment, or a medical issue—they may still be entitled to benefits.
- Employers often challenge claims. An employer may claim that the employee quit without cause or was fired for misconduct. These allegations must be backed by credible evidence, and they can be disputed.
- The initial determination is not the final word. If a claim is denied, employees have the right to file an appeal and request a hearing before a UC Referee.
- The appeal process is time-sensitive. In most cases, a UC appeal must be filed within weeks of the determination notice. Missing this deadline may result in losing the right to challenge the decision.
- Representation can improve the outcome. At a hearing, legal arguments and evidence matter. Mr. Kennedy assists clients in gathering documentation, preparing testimony, and advocating effectively at every stage of the appeal.
- Benefits can be retroactively restored. If an appeal is successful, claimants may receive back pay for the weeks they were wrongfully denied benefits.