March 27, 2020 — The Latest from CareerLink:

There is an extreme need to connect laid-off workers to the correct resources. 

e best way to file a new unemployment claim or to check on an existing claim is on the Unemployment Compensation (UC) website: https://www.uc.pa.gov/Pages/covid19.aspx. This site has a significant number of answers to questions about layoffs to due COVID-19.

  1. The main UC phone number, 1-888-313-7284, is experiencing high call volumes so a long hold time should be expected.
  2. To avoid long phone hold times here is an email address where questions can be sent: uchelp.pa.gov
  3. Although our facilities are closed, PA CareerLink® staff members are still available for most of our no-cost services. Many clients will use this time to work on resumes, work on interviews skills, and learn how to job search. We have funding available for training programs as well. Our career counselors can help get you started even if you are at home.
    1. Phones: Blair: 814-940-6201 and Bedford: 814-814-623-6107.
    2. Live Chat: https://www.gocareerlink.org/
    3. Virtually via Zoom or Skype – call into our main number for an appointment.
  4. The previously scheduled April 15th Job Fair at the Jaffa Shrine in Altoona has been tentatively rescheduled for May 20th.

The PA Careerlink Bedford is temporarily closed to the public. However, the staff is working from home and are accessible by Work Cell Phones, Texts, Email and virtually by ZOOM or Google Hangouts.

CHAT feature: https://www.gocareerlink.org/counties/bedford-county/

PA Facebook Page www.facebook.com/PACareerLinkBedfordCo/

Website access is also available www.pacareerlink.pa.gov

Services are still available to employers and job-seekers.

Please see the updated information regarding employer relief from charges from UC claims due to COVID-19. Below are two links to www.uc.pa.gov that address the issue.

In summary, employers will be granted relief from charges. Specific instructions on how to file for relief will be mailed to the employer during the normal financial determination process.

https://www.uc.pa.gov/COVID-19/Pages/Employer-COVID19-FAQs.aspx

https://www.uc.pa.gov/faq/Employer/Pages/Relief-from-Charges-FAQS.aspx