Unemployed Now Eligible for 99 Weeks of Benefits

Extension adds up to 20 extra weeks for those out of work

A recently enacted change means Pennsylvanians may be eligible for 20 additional weeks of unemployment compensation benefits, according to Senator Bob Mensch (R-Bucks, Lehigh, Montgomery and Northampton).

With the 20 week extension that went into effect on November 22, Pennsylvanians now may be eligible to receive unemployment benefits for up to 99 weeks based upon their claim status, according to Senator Mensch.

"The state mailed notices of the extension to all Pennsylvanians who are eligible to receive the additional benefits," said Senator Mensch. "Anyone who didn't receive the notice and believes that they are eligible for the extension should contact their local unemployment office or go online (www.uc.pa.gov) to make a claim for the additional weeks of benefits."

Individuals may also contact the state UC Service Center toll-free at 1-888- 313-7284 on weekdays between 7 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Unemployed individuals who have already exhausted all 79 weeks of benefits, or have been receiving benefits for more than a year, could qualify for a total of up to 99 weeks.

However, claimants who recently started receiving benefits or start collecting benefits prior to the end of the year will not receive the full 99 weeks due to the scheduled expiration of the Emergency Unemployment Compensation program at the end of 2009.

Pennsylvania's Unemployment Compensation program provides funding to help job-seekers bridge the gap between losing a job and finding new employment. Pennsylvania's Unemployment Compensation program will also work hand-in-hand with PA CareerLink to keep claimants informed of career opportunities that are available.

Individuals who are involuntarily separated from a job may be eligible for Unemployment Compensation benefits. To be eligible, an individual must have a qualifying separation from employment and be willing and able to accept a job if offered. An eligible applicant must also have a minimum of 16 weeks in the previous 12 months in which the individual earned $50 or more. Eligibility and benefit amounts vary and are determined when an application is filed.