The statute of limitations period on unemployment benefits is very strict. There is only an extremely limited set of reasons you would be eligible for an exception. Please call immediately if you believe that is the case.
After your online application for benefits, you will receive a Notice of Determination. If you are ineligible or believe your benefits are computed incorrectly, you have 15 days to appeal the decision. Without a timely appeal that decision is final. We always recommend that you always use two methods to appeal, such as by a fax and mailing. Should they not have a record of your appeal, without proof, you will be fighting an uphill battle. Your employer also has 15 days to appeal your eligibility or the amount determined.
Once you receive the Referees Decision/Order from the unemployment hearing, you again have 15 days to appeal the Unemployment Board of Review (UCBR). We again recommend two methods of appeal. We prefer fax and e-mail.
When the UCBR renders a decision, you have two appeals you should file simultaneously. The first is a Request of Reconsideration that you will again file with the UCBR within 15 days. The second is an appeal to the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Courts which must be done within 30 days.
Expedience is key and an unemployment lawyer can help ensure that you maintain your right to appeal.