Self-Help forms and Online Resources relating to Employment Law issues.
Click on a resource category listed below to see information related to that category.
Get a Clean Slate in Pennsylvania - MyCleanSlatePA.com
This website, MyCleanSlatePA.com provides comprehensive information on Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Law that provides for automated sealing of certain criminal records. Information is also provided on how to obtain legal help in dealing with your criminal record.
Filing a Charge of Employment Discrimination
Description of the process to be followed to file a charge of employment discrimination with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Filing an Employment Discrimination Charge - A Do-It-Yourself Packet for Immigrant Workers
A Do-It-Yourself Packet for Immigrant Workers. This Packet Contains a Basic Information Brief: Employer Sanctions and Discrimination; Sample I-9 Form; Practical Tips on Dealing with a Discriminatory Employer; How to File a Discrimination Charge; Instructions on Filling out the Charge Form; and Sample Charge and Complaint Forms.
Clean Slate Review
Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Law permits many criminal cases in Pennsylvania to be sealed – taken out of public view - so they cannot be used by employers, landlords and others. Use this form to submit your information for review by a volunteer attorney to see if you qualify to have your criminal record sealed under the Clean Slate Law. (April 2019)
Clearing Your Criminal Record in Pennsylvania
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services on methods for clearing your criminal record and what can be cleared from your record.
Delaware County: Helpful Legal Information for the Public - Delaware County Bar Association
Information and forms to assist self-represented litigants in certain types of Court actions compiled by the Pro Se Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association.
Erasing Your Criminal Record: How to Get a Pardon in Pennsylvania
A pardon is an act by the Governor of Pennsylvania that erases a conviction from your criminal record. It is generally the only way that felony and misdemeanor convictions can be eliminated. This guide from Community Legal Services of Philadelphia tells you how to get a pardon in Pennsylvania. [PDF] (February 2016)
Expungement Explainer
Information on expungement including what criminal records can be expunged and the process for getting them expunged.
Expungement Guide/Limited Access Guide - York County
Legal information about the expungement of criminal records process in York County and about the process for limiting access to certain criminal records. These processes are designed to help individuals who are interested in the expungement of criminal records or in limiting access to qualified records to certain individuals and entities.
Expungement Procedures in Beaver County
Information on expunging your criminal record in the Court of Common Pleas of Beaver County.
Expungements - Allegheny County
Information on expungements of criminal records from the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Criminal Division.
Forms - Pennsylvania Courts
The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania provides forms for citizens, the judiciary and law enforcement. These bilingual forms are now offered in 13 languages. BILINGUAL FORMS / FORMULARIOS BILINGÜES: (ARABIC) العربية; 中文 (CHINESE-SIMPLIFIED); FRANÇAIS (FRENCH); KREYÒL AYISYEN (HAITIAN CREOLE); ITALIANO (ITALIAN); ខ្មែរ (KHMER); 한국어 (KOREAN); नेपाली (NEPALI); POLSKI (POLISH); PORTUGUÊS (PORTUGUESE); РУССКИЙ (RUSSIAN); ESPAÑOL (SPANISH); TIẾNG VIỆT (VIETNAMESE)
Get a Clean Slate in Pennsylvania - MyCleanSlatePA.com
This website, MyCleanSlatePA.com provides comprehensive information on Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Law that provides for automated sealing of certain criminal records. Information is also provided on how to obtain legal help in dealing with your criminal record.
Getting a Conviction Pardoned
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services Association on getting a pardon in Pennsylvania. [PDF] (September 2010)
Getting Your Adult Criminal Record Expunged
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services Association on how to get an adult criminal record expunged in Pennsylvania, with specific directions for Allegheny County. [PDF] (March 2011)
Getting Your Juvenile Record Expunged (Allegheny County)
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services Association on how to get an adult criminal record expunged in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.
How to Fix Criminal Identity Theft On Your Pennsylvania State Police Record
Information from Community Legal Services of Philadelphia on how to deal with criminal identity theft - where someone who is arrested gives your name, date of birth, and/or Social Security number to the authorities. [PDF] (Updated 1/6/22)
Lehigh County: Expungement /Limited Access of Record (Self-Help Center)
This information from the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas is for reference and research purposes. This section explains the basic forms needed for expungement of a criminal record or limiting access to a criminal record in a step by step format.
Mifflin County: Prothonotary Forms
Custody, Divorce and Expungement forms from the Prothonotary and MidPenn Legal Services for use in Mifflin County may be viewed and downloaded.
Pardon Process Explained (Video)
This video from Neighborhood Legal Services will help you understand how to submit an application for a pardon and prepare for your hearing.
Pardons - DIY: Filling Out the Application (Video)
Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity (PLSE) has developed a series of videos explaining how to complete an application for pardon. The form to apply for a pardon in Pennsylvania is pretty short but there are things you need to know to do the best job you can filling it out, and a quality application is a key factor in getting a pardon. These videos were created by Philadelphia Attorney Joe Mitchell, a private attorney who gives free community education workshops as a volunteer for PLSE.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Forms Center
Forms available from the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas
Appealing an Unemployment Compensation Decision
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services on how to appeal a denial of unemployment compensation.
Apply for Unemployment Compensation Benefits - Initial Claim
This site from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry allows you to file an initial application or reopen their existing claims for UC benefits via the Internet, telephone or video phone for individuals using American Sign Language.
Benefit Appeals - Important Information for UC Appeal Hearings
Information from the PA Department of Labor & Industry on appeals of unemployment compensation claims.
Did You Get Unemployment Compensation During the Pandemic? Tips for Filing a New UC Application
If you received Unemployment Compensation (UC) during the pandemic and now need to apply again because you lost your job, you may be confused about how to get started. Here’s some advice from Community Legal Services that may help you file your new application.
Downloadable Forms from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry
Links to downloadable forms from the PA Department of Labor and Industry.
Extending Your Regular Unemployment Compensation Benefits
Information on extensions enacted to extend regular unemployment compensation benefits.
FILE AN INITIAL CLAIM - Unemployment Compensation, Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), or Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)
With the COVID-19 pandemic and the federal CARES act, there are federal unemployment programs available to assist in the event you have exhausted regular unemployment or typically ineligible. Here is information from the PA Department of Labor & Industry on applying for regular unemployment benefits and the the special pandemic-related programs, Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA).
Filing Bi-Weekly Claims for Unemployment Compensation
After filing an application for UC benefits, you must file claims for weeks when you are totally or partially unemployed in order to receive UC. This site from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry will allow you to file your claims online.
Filing Claims
Information from UCHelp.org on filing weekly claims for unemployment insurance benefits.
Filing for Benefits - Unemployment Benefits
Information from the PA Department of Labor & Industry on filing Initial Claims for Unemployment Compensation and on filing a weekly claim; reopening an existing claim. Information is also provided on the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program.
Guide on Applying for Unemployment Compensation
Unemployment Compensation benefits help you replace your income when you have lost work through no fault of your own. Generally, you must be a W2 worker and have enough work history from the last 18 months to qualify for unemployment compensation benefits. However, after a recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court decision, app based gig drivers are also now eligible for state unemployment compensation. This guide explains how to apply for benefits.
How to Appeal a Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Determination on the Portal
This two-part video demonstrates how to file a Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) through the online PUA Portal and what happens after the appeal is filed through the Portal.
How To Appeal A Regular UC Denial
If you received a Notice of Determination finding you ineligible for UC benefits, you must file an appeal within 15 days of the date the determination was mailed. This section provides guidance on the appeal process.
How to Appeal Unemployment Compensation Denials
Information on how to file an appeal if your application for Unemployment Compensation is denied, including information about denials during the COVID-19 Crisis.
How to Choose your Reason for Separation on the UC Application
When you apply for Unemployment Compensation you have to state a "reason for separation" Here are common scenarios during the coronavirus crisis to help you figure out what to select under "reason for separation".
How to File for Unemployment Compensation Benefits Online (Video)
Need to file for unemployment benefits? This video from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry will show you everything you need to know and how you can save time in the process!
How to Unfreeze Your PUA Benefits: Use ID.Me (Video)
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Claimants: have your benefits stopped or gone ‘In Progress’ because your account was flagged for fraud? Watch this video from Philadelphia Legal Assistance to learn how to unfreeze your benefits using ID.Me, a website where you can verify your identity to the PA government.
Reopen an Existing Unemployment Compensation Claim
If you established an initial claim for UC benefits within the past year, stopped filing for those benefits and wish to resume filing, you can reopen your claim using the methods listed on this website.
Representing Yourself at a Unemployment Compensation Referee Hearing
Tips and suggestions for persons representing themselves at an unemployment compensation hearing from Neighborhood Legal Services.
Unemployment Compensation Complaint
If you have had problems reaching representatives from Unemployment Compensation (UC), you can submit a complaint using this site.
Waiver of Benefit Overpayment - PUA, PEUC or FPUC
A waiver is available for non-fraud overpayments of benefits for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC).
Employment Based Forms
List of all forms available from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Filter by category for "Employment-based Forms" to display employment-related forms.USCIS forms are always FREE to download on this site, or order by mail or phone at 1-800-870-3676.
E-Verify: Employee Rights and Responsibilities
E-Verify is a web-based system that allows enrolled employers to confirm the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. E-Verify employers verify the identity and employment eligibility of newly hired employees by electronically matching information provided by employees against records available to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It is important that you know your rights and responsibilities when you apply to work for an employer who participates in E-Verify and this web page provides the information you need on your rights.
File My Application Online (E-Filing)
This is a location where you can file certain application documents online with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Submitting your application online provides you with several benefits. Get helpful instructions and tips from USCIS as you complete your form using the secure online filing system, avoid common mistakes, and pay your fees online.
Filing an Employment Discrimination Charge - A Do-It-Yourself Packet for Immigrant Workers
A Do-It-Yourself Packet for Immigrant Workers. This Packet Contains a Basic Information Brief: Employer Sanctions and Discrimination; Sample I-9 Form; Practical Tips on Dealing with a Discriminatory Employer; How to File a Discrimination Charge; Instructions on Filling out the Charge Form; and Sample Charge and Complaint Forms.
Forms Updates
This page from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services lists updates to USCIS forms as they are published, along with a brief explanation of the nature of the update.
Green Card Based Forms
Link to "All Forms" page from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Filter by Category to list "Green Card-Based Forms". USCIS forms are always FREE to download on this site, or order by mail or phone at 1-800-870-3676.USCIS forms are always FREE to download on this site, or order by mail or phone at 1-800-870-3676.
Immigration Forms and Fees
Downloadable Immigration Forms from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Proving Work Authorization and Reverification
Questions and answers on work authorization and reverification. (April 2009)
How to File a Complaint with OSHA
Information from the United States Department of Labor about the process for filing a complaint about workplace safety with the Occupational Safety & Health Administration. The process is also explained, including when OSHA will do an investigation.
OSHA Hazard Awareness Advisor
The OSHA Hazard Awareness Advisor from the United States Department of Labor is designed to help general industry employers and workers identify possible safety and health hazards in their workplace, and to direct users to OSHA standards addressing those hazards.
OSHA Online Complaint Form
Online form to report workplace safety issues. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) stresses that this form should NOT be used to report emergencies. To report an emergency, fatality, or imminent life threatening situation please use the OSHA toll free number immediately: 1-800-321-OSHA (6742); TTY 1-877-889-5627
How to File a Case in Philadelphia Small Claims Court
Explanation of the Small Claims Court process in Philadelphia from Philadelphia Legal Assistance as outlined in a brochure from the Philadelphia Municipal Court.
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
This video from Laurel Legal Services provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees.
How to Sue At the Office of the Magisterial District Judge
Information from MidPenn Legal Services on how to file suit on small claims in your local Office of the Magisterial District Judge. (July 2012)
Magisterial District Judge Court - Filing Suit
This information from Northwestern Legal Services provides instructions on how to file a lawsuit in Magisterial District Judge Court.
Minimum Wage and Overtime Complaint Form
This form from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry is used to file complaints under the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act of 1968. In an effort to expedite your complaint, the Bureau of Labor Law Compliance encourages you to take advantage of the online or electronic submission of the complaint form, but you may choose instead to return a hardcopy version of this form.
Northampton County: Handbook for Self Represented Litigants
The purpose of this handbook is to provide self-represented litigants with a general idea of the legal process and to further provide some direction with regard to self-representation. It also provides information on websites designed to provide information, forms and other support to self represented litigants in Pennsylvania actions.
Philadelphia County: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Forms Center
Forms available from the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas
Philadelphia Wage Theft Complaints
Starting July 1, 2016 Employees will be able to file official wage thief complaints with the City of Philadelphia’s Wage Theft Coordinator. This information from Community Legal Services explains the process. (2016)
Wage Complaint Form
This form is used to file complaints under the Pennsylvania Wage Payment and Collection Law. In an effort to expedite your complaint, the Bureau of Labor Law Compliance encourages you to take advantage of the online or electronic submission of the complaint form but you may also choose instead to return a hardcopy version of this form.
Wage Theft Complaint and Information - Philadelphia
If you’ve experienced wage theft, you may be able to file a complaint against your employer or former employer. View this resource for information on the process in Philadelphia.
Where to File a Claim for Wages
A claim for unpaid wages can be filed with the U.S. Department of Labor, Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, or Municipal Court. This chart lists information to help you determine where the claim should be filed. (August 2013)
Apply for Unemployment Compensation Benefits - Initial Claim
This site from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry allows you to file an initial application or reopen their existing claims for UC benefits via the Internet, telephone or video phone for individuals using American Sign Language.
Apply Online For Social Security Disability Benefits
Online Application for Social Security Disability Benefits
Filing Bi-Weekly Claims for Unemployment Compensation
After filing an application for UC benefits, you must file claims for weeks when you are totally or partially unemployed in order to receive UC. This site from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry will allow you to file your claims online.
Reopen an Existing Unemployment Compensation Claim
If you established an initial claim for UC benefits within the past year, stopped filing for those benefits and wish to resume filing, you can reopen your claim using the methods listed on this website.
Did You Get Unemployment Compensation During the Pandemic? Tips for Filing a New UC Application
If you received Unemployment Compensation (UC) during the pandemic and now need to apply again because you lost your job, you may be confused about how to get started. Here’s some advice from Community Legal Services that may help you file your new application.
Downloadable Forms from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry
Links to downloadable forms from the PA Department of Labor and Industry.
Employment Based Forms
List of all forms available from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Filter by category for "Employment-based Forms" to display employment-related forms.USCIS forms are always FREE to download on this site, or order by mail or phone at 1-800-870-3676.
Federal Court Finder
Find a federal court location by location or court name, including appellate, district, bankruptcy, probation and pretrial office, or federal defender organization. Each District Court has its own local forms which are generally available on the Court website.
File My Application Online (E-Filing)
This is a location where you can file certain application documents online with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Submitting your application online provides you with several benefits. Get helpful instructions and tips from USCIS as you complete your form using the secure online filing system, avoid common mistakes, and pay your fees online.
Filing an Employment Discrimination Charge - A Do-It-Yourself Packet for Immigrant Workers
A Do-It-Yourself Packet for Immigrant Workers. This Packet Contains a Basic Information Brief: Employer Sanctions and Discrimination; Sample I-9 Form; Practical Tips on Dealing with a Discriminatory Employer; How to File a Discrimination Charge; Instructions on Filling out the Charge Form; and Sample Charge and Complaint Forms.
Forms - Pennsylvania Courts
The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania provides forms for citizens, the judiciary and law enforcement. These bilingual forms are now offered in 13 languages. BILINGUAL FORMS / FORMULARIOS BILINGÜES: (ARABIC) العربية; 中文 (CHINESE-SIMPLIFIED); FRANÇAIS (FRENCH); KREYÒL AYISYEN (HAITIAN CREOLE); ITALIANO (ITALIAN); ខ្មែរ (KHMER); 한국어 (KOREAN); नेपाली (NEPALI); POLSKI (POLISH); PORTUGUÊS (PORTUGUESE); РУССКИЙ (RUSSIAN); ESPAÑOL (SPANISH); TIẾNG VIỆT (VIETNAMESE)
Forms Updates
This page from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services lists updates to USCIS forms as they are published, along with a brief explanation of the nature of the update.
Get a Clean Slate in Pennsylvania - MyCleanSlatePA.com
This website, MyCleanSlatePA.com provides comprehensive information on Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Law that provides for automated sealing of certain criminal records. Information is also provided on how to obtain legal help in dealing with your criminal record.
Green Card Based Forms
Link to "All Forms" page from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Filter by Category to list "Green Card-Based Forms". USCIS forms are always FREE to download on this site, or order by mail or phone at 1-800-870-3676.USCIS forms are always FREE to download on this site, or order by mail or phone at 1-800-870-3676.
How to File a Case in Philadelphia Small Claims Court
Explanation of the Small Claims Court process in Philadelphia from Philadelphia Legal Assistance as outlined in a brochure from the Philadelphia Municipal Court.
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
This video from Laurel Legal Services provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees.
Immigration Forms and Fees
Downloadable Immigration Forms from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Lehigh County: Expungement /Limited Access of Record (Self-Help Center)
This information from the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas is for reference and research purposes. This section explains the basic forms needed for expungement of a criminal record or limiting access to a criminal record in a step by step format.
Minimum Wage and Overtime Complaint Form
This form from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry is used to file complaints under the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act of 1968. In an effort to expedite your complaint, the Bureau of Labor Law Compliance encourages you to take advantage of the online or electronic submission of the complaint form, but you may choose instead to return a hardcopy version of this form.
OSHA Online Complaint Form
Online form to report workplace safety issues. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) stresses that this form should NOT be used to report emergencies. To report an emergency, fatality, or imminent life threatening situation please use the OSHA toll free number immediately: 1-800-321-OSHA (6742); TTY 1-877-889-5627
Pardons - DIY: Filling Out the Application (Video)
Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity (PLSE) has developed a series of videos explaining how to complete an application for pardon. The form to apply for a pardon in Pennsylvania is pretty short but there are things you need to know to do the best job you can filling it out, and a quality application is a key factor in getting a pardon. These videos were created by Philadelphia Attorney Joe Mitchell, a private attorney who gives free community education workshops as a volunteer for PLSE.
PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services
Links to online services available from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Pennsylvania Commonwealth Workforce Development System
The Commonwealth Workforce Development System (CWDS) is an Internet-based system of services for use by customers and potential customers of the PA CareerLink® offices. CWDS provides online access to job openings; information about employers; services and training opportunities for job seekers; and labor market information. All of this is available by enrolling on-line with CWDS.
Request for Social Security Earnings Information
This form will request verification of employment dates from the Social Security Administration. You may need this if you are having difficulty obtaining dates of employment for a pension, social security application, or personal reason. Please note: fees apply depending on the number of years you are requesting. [PDF] (02-2021) FREE yearly totals of earnings are available at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.
Unemployment Compensation Complaint
If you have had problems reaching representatives from Unemployment Compensation (UC), you can submit a complaint using this site.
Wage Complaint Form
This form is used to file complaints under the Pennsylvania Wage Payment and Collection Law. In an effort to expedite your complaint, the Bureau of Labor Law Compliance encourages you to take advantage of the online or electronic submission of the complaint form but you may also choose instead to return a hardcopy version of this form.
Waiver of Benefit Overpayment - PUA, PEUC or FPUC
A waiver is available for non-fraud overpayments of benefits for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC).
Appealing an Unemployment Compensation Decision
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services on how to appeal a denial of unemployment compensation.
Clean Slate Review
Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Law permits many criminal cases in Pennsylvania to be sealed – taken out of public view - so they cannot be used by employers, landlords and others. Use this form to submit your information for review by a volunteer attorney to see if you qualify to have your criminal record sealed under the Clean Slate Law. (April 2019)
Clearing Your Criminal Record in Pennsylvania
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services on methods for clearing your criminal record and what can be cleared from your record.
Did You Get Unemployment Compensation During the Pandemic? Tips for Filing a New UC Application
If you received Unemployment Compensation (UC) during the pandemic and now need to apply again because you lost your job, you may be confused about how to get started. Here’s some advice from Community Legal Services that may help you file your new application.
Erasing Your Criminal Record: How to Get a Pardon in Pennsylvania
A pardon is an act by the Governor of Pennsylvania that erases a conviction from your criminal record. It is generally the only way that felony and misdemeanor convictions can be eliminated. This guide from Community Legal Services of Philadelphia tells you how to get a pardon in Pennsylvania. [PDF] (February 2016)
Expungement Explainer
Information on expungement including what criminal records can be expunged and the process for getting them expunged.
Extending Your Regular Unemployment Compensation Benefits
Information on extensions enacted to extend regular unemployment compensation benefits.
Filing Claims
Information from UCHelp.org on filing weekly claims for unemployment insurance benefits.
Get a Clean Slate in Pennsylvania - MyCleanSlatePA.com
This website, MyCleanSlatePA.com provides comprehensive information on Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Law that provides for automated sealing of certain criminal records. Information is also provided on how to obtain legal help in dealing with your criminal record.
Getting a Conviction Pardoned
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services Association on getting a pardon in Pennsylvania. [PDF] (September 2010)
Getting Your Adult Criminal Record Expunged
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services Association on how to get an adult criminal record expunged in Pennsylvania, with specific directions for Allegheny County. [PDF] (March 2011)
Getting Your Juvenile Record Expunged (Allegheny County)
Information from Neighborhood Legal Services Association on how to get an adult criminal record expunged in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.
Guide on Applying for Unemployment Compensation
Unemployment Compensation benefits help you replace your income when you have lost work through no fault of your own. Generally, you must be a W2 worker and have enough work history from the last 18 months to qualify for unemployment compensation benefits. However, after a recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court decision, app based gig drivers are also now eligible for state unemployment compensation. This guide explains how to apply for benefits.
How to Appeal a Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Determination on the Portal
This two-part video demonstrates how to file a Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) through the online PUA Portal and what happens after the appeal is filed through the Portal.
How To Appeal A Regular UC Denial
If you received a Notice of Determination finding you ineligible for UC benefits, you must file an appeal within 15 days of the date the determination was mailed. This section provides guidance on the appeal process.
How to Appeal Unemployment Compensation Denials
Information on how to file an appeal if your application for Unemployment Compensation is denied, including information about denials during the COVID-19 Crisis.
How To Apply For Benefits
Learn how to apply for Unemployment Compensation and get guidance on filling out your application and working your way through the process.
How to Choose your Reason for Separation on the UC Application
When you apply for Unemployment Compensation you have to state a "reason for separation" Here are common scenarios during the coronavirus crisis to help you figure out what to select under "reason for separation".
How to File a Case in Philadelphia Small Claims Court
Explanation of the Small Claims Court process in Philadelphia from Philadelphia Legal Assistance as outlined in a brochure from the Philadelphia Municipal Court.
How to File a Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis
This video from Laurel Legal Services provides an explanation of what In Forma Pauperis is (a request to file legal papers without having to pay the filing fee because you cannot afford to pay the fees) and line-by-line instructions on completing a petition to request permission to proceed without paying filing fees.
How to Fix Criminal Identity Theft On Your Pennsylvania State Police Record
Information from Community Legal Services of Philadelphia on how to deal with criminal identity theft - where someone who is arrested gives your name, date of birth, and/or Social Security number to the authorities. [PDF] (Updated 1/6/22)
How to Sue At the Office of the Magisterial District Judge
Information from MidPenn Legal Services on how to file suit on small claims in your local Office of the Magisterial District Judge. (July 2012)
How to Unfreeze Your PUA Benefits: Use ID.Me (Video)
Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Claimants: have your benefits stopped or gone ‘In Progress’ because your account was flagged for fraud? Watch this video from Philadelphia Legal Assistance to learn how to unfreeze your benefits using ID.Me, a website where you can verify your identity to the PA government.
Magisterial District Judge Court - Filing Suit
This information from Northwestern Legal Services provides instructions on how to file a lawsuit in Magisterial District Judge Court.
PA Health Law Project Toll-Free Helpline - Call: 1-800-274-3258
The PA Health Law Project provides free legal services and advocacy to Pennsylvanians having trouble accessing publicly funded health care coverage or services. For assistance, call the PHLP Helpline at 1-800-274-3258 or 1-866-236-6310 TTY or e-mail the PHLP at staff@phlp.org. Information from the PHLP is also available online at www.phlp.org.
Pardon Process Explained (Video)
This video from Neighborhood Legal Services will help you understand how to submit an application for a pardon and prepare for your hearing.
Philadelphia Wage Theft Complaints
Starting July 1, 2016 Employees will be able to file official wage thief complaints with the City of Philadelphia’s Wage Theft Coordinator. This information from Community Legal Services explains the process. (2016)
Representing Yourself at a Unemployment Compensation Referee Hearing
Tips and suggestions for persons representing themselves at an unemployment compensation hearing from Neighborhood Legal Services.
Waiver of Benefit Overpayment - PUA, PEUC or FPUC
A waiver is available for non-fraud overpayments of benefits for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC).
Where to File a Claim for Wages
A claim for unpaid wages can be filed with the U.S. Department of Labor, Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry, or Municipal Court. This chart lists information to help you determine where the claim should be filed. (August 2013)
Delaware County: Helpful Legal Information for the Public - Delaware County Bar Association
Information and forms to assist self-represented litigants in certain types of Court actions compiled by the Pro Se Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association.
Filing an Employment Discrimination Charge - A Do-It-Yourself Packet for Immigrant Workers
A Do-It-Yourself Packet for Immigrant Workers. This Packet Contains a Basic Information Brief: Employer Sanctions and Discrimination; Sample I-9 Form; Practical Tips on Dealing with a Discriminatory Employer; How to File a Discrimination Charge; Instructions on Filling out the Charge Form; and Sample Charge and Complaint Forms.
Pardons - DIY: Filling Out the Application (Video)
Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity (PLSE) has developed a series of videos explaining how to complete an application for pardon. The form to apply for a pardon in Pennsylvania is pretty short but there are things you need to know to do the best job you can filling it out, and a quality application is a key factor in getting a pardon. These videos were created by Philadelphia Attorney Joe Mitchell, a private attorney who gives free community education workshops as a volunteer for PLSE.
Apply Online For Social Security Disability Benefits
Online Application for Social Security Disability Benefits
Benefit Appeals - Important Information for UC Appeal Hearings
Information from the PA Department of Labor & Industry on appeals of unemployment compensation claims.
Downloadable Forms from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry
Links to downloadable forms from the PA Department of Labor and Industry.
E-Verify: Employee Rights and Responsibilities
E-Verify is a web-based system that allows enrolled employers to confirm the eligibility of their employees to work in the United States. E-Verify employers verify the identity and employment eligibility of newly hired employees by electronically matching information provided by employees against records available to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It is important that you know your rights and responsibilities when you apply to work for an employer who participates in E-Verify and this web page provides the information you need on your rights.
Expungement Guide/Limited Access Guide - York County
Legal information about the expungement of criminal records process in York County and about the process for limiting access to certain criminal records. These processes are designed to help individuals who are interested in the expungement of criminal records or in limiting access to qualified records to certain individuals and entities.
Expungement Procedures in Beaver County
Information on expunging your criminal record in the Court of Common Pleas of Beaver County.
Expungements - Allegheny County
Information on expungements of criminal records from the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Criminal Division.
FILE AN INITIAL CLAIM - Unemployment Compensation, Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC), or Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)
With the COVID-19 pandemic and the federal CARES act, there are federal unemployment programs available to assist in the event you have exhausted regular unemployment or typically ineligible. Here is information from the PA Department of Labor & Industry on applying for regular unemployment benefits and the the special pandemic-related programs, Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) and Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA).
Filing a Charge of Employment Discrimination
Description of the process to be followed to file a charge of employment discrimination with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Filing for Benefits - Unemployment Benefits
Information from the PA Department of Labor & Industry on filing Initial Claims for Unemployment Compensation and on filing a weekly claim; reopening an existing claim. Information is also provided on the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program.
Forms - Pennsylvania Courts
The Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania provides forms for citizens, the judiciary and law enforcement. These bilingual forms are now offered in 13 languages. BILINGUAL FORMS / FORMULARIOS BILINGÜES: (ARABIC) العربية; 中文 (CHINESE-SIMPLIFIED); FRANÇAIS (FRENCH); KREYÒL AYISYEN (HAITIAN CREOLE); ITALIANO (ITALIAN); ខ្មែរ (KHMER); 한국어 (KOREAN); नेपाली (NEPALI); POLSKI (POLISH); PORTUGUÊS (PORTUGUESE); РУССКИЙ (RUSSIAN); ESPAÑOL (SPANISH); TIẾNG VIỆT (VIETNAMESE)
How to File a Complaint with OSHA
Information from the United States Department of Labor about the process for filing a complaint about workplace safety with the Occupational Safety & Health Administration. The process is also explained, including when OSHA will do an investigation.
How to File for Unemployment Compensation Benefits Online (Video)
Need to file for unemployment benefits? This video from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry will show you everything you need to know and how you can save time in the process!
Lehigh County: Expungement /Limited Access of Record (Self-Help Center)
This information from the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas is for reference and research purposes. This section explains the basic forms needed for expungement of a criminal record or limiting access to a criminal record in a step by step format.
Minimum Wage and Overtime Complaint Form
This form from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry is used to file complaints under the Pennsylvania Minimum Wage Act of 1968. In an effort to expedite your complaint, the Bureau of Labor Law Compliance encourages you to take advantage of the online or electronic submission of the complaint form, but you may choose instead to return a hardcopy version of this form.
OSHA Hazard Awareness Advisor
The OSHA Hazard Awareness Advisor from the United States Department of Labor is designed to help general industry employers and workers identify possible safety and health hazards in their workplace, and to direct users to OSHA standards addressing those hazards.
OSHA Online Complaint Form
Online form to report workplace safety issues. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) stresses that this form should NOT be used to report emergencies. To report an emergency, fatality, or imminent life threatening situation please use the OSHA toll free number immediately: 1-800-321-OSHA (6742); TTY 1-877-889-5627
PennDOT Driver and Vehicle Services
Links to online services available from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Reopen an Existing Unemployment Compensation Claim
If you established an initial claim for UC benefits within the past year, stopped filing for those benefits and wish to resume filing, you can reopen your claim using the methods listed on this website.
Request for Social Security Earnings Information
This form will request verification of employment dates from the Social Security Administration. You may need this if you are having difficulty obtaining dates of employment for a pension, social security application, or personal reason. Please note: fees apply depending on the number of years you are requesting. [PDF] (02-2021) FREE yearly totals of earnings are available at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.
Wage Complaint Form
This form is used to file complaints under the Pennsylvania Wage Payment and Collection Law. In an effort to expedite your complaint, the Bureau of Labor Law Compliance encourages you to take advantage of the online or electronic submission of the complaint form but you may also choose instead to return a hardcopy version of this form.
Filing an Employment Discrimination Charge - A Do-It-Yourself Packet for Immigrant Workers
A Do-It-Yourself Packet for Immigrant Workers. This Packet Contains a Basic Information Brief: Employer Sanctions and Discrimination; Sample I-9 Form; Practical Tips on Dealing with a Discriminatory Employer; How to File a Discrimination Charge; Instructions on Filling out the Charge Form; and Sample Charge and Complaint Forms.
How to Appeal a Medical Assistance Denial of Assistive Technology
This manual from Disability Rights Pennsylvania will explain your rights when Medical Assistance, including your Medical Assistance managed health care plan, denies prior authorization or denies a program exception. This includes an approval of something less or different than what your doctor prescribed. [PDF] (January 2018)
Proving Work Authorization and Reverification
Questions and answers on work authorization and reverification. (April 2009)
Lehigh County: Expungement /Limited Access of Record (Self-Help Center)
This information from the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas is for reference and research purposes. This section explains the basic forms needed for expungement of a criminal record or limiting access to a criminal record in a step by step format.
Crawford County - Court Forms and Information
Forms and explanatory video from the Crawford County Court of Common Pleas
Delaware County: Helpful Legal Information for the Public - Delaware County Bar Association
Information and forms to assist self-represented litigants in certain types of Court actions compiled by the Pro Se Committee of the Delaware County Bar Association.
Expungements - Allegheny County
Information on expungements of criminal records from the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Criminal Division.
Lehigh County: Expungement /Limited Access of Record (Self-Help Center)
This information from the Lehigh County Court of Common Pleas is for reference and research purposes. This section explains the basic forms needed for expungement of a criminal record or limiting access to a criminal record in a step by step format.
Mifflin County: Prothonotary Forms
Custody, Divorce and Expungement forms from the Prothonotary and MidPenn Legal Services for use in Mifflin County may be viewed and downloaded.
Northampton County: Handbook for Self Represented Litigants
The purpose of this handbook is to provide self-represented litigants with a general idea of the legal process and to further provide some direction with regard to self-representation. It also provides information on websites designed to provide information, forms and other support to self represented litigants in Pennsylvania actions.
How to File a Case in Philadelphia Small Claims Court
Explanation of the Small Claims Court process in Philadelphia from Philadelphia Legal Assistance as outlined in a brochure from the Philadelphia Municipal Court.
Philadelphia County: Court Forms - Philadelphia Courts, First Judicial District
Forms that may be used in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas
Philadelphia County: Petition to Proceed In Forma Pauperis (IFP)
Form with instructions from the Family Division of the Court of Common Please of Philadelphia that may be used in custody proceedings taking place in Philadelphia courts.
Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas Forms Center
Forms available from the Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas
Wage Theft Complaint and Information - Philadelphia
If you’ve experienced wage theft, you may be able to file a complaint against your employer or former employer. View this resource for information on the process in Philadelphia.
Westmoreland County: Forms
A variety of forms for use in the Westmoreland County Court of Common Pleas may be downloaded at this link.