The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry Unemployment Compensation mainframe computer was back up and running Tuesday.

State Rep. Doyle Heffley posted Monday evening that his office was informed by the state Department of Labor and Industry that the Unemployment Compensation mainframe computer was experiencing technical difficulties.

He said at that time they were told that claimants could still file initial claims, but biweekly claims could not be accepted at that time.

Heffley said claimants trying to file biweekly claims were getting a message that said, “You have a claim established, but it is currently inactive.”

He said claimants should ignore the message to call the UC Service Center to provide additional information.

Heffley said the issue was being handled internally, and claims would be automatically released from inactive status. Claimants should continue to attempt to file their biweekly claims daily until the claim is processed.

Heffley said Tuesday the issue has since been addressed, and that claimants will not lose eligibility for any weeks as a result of their inability to file.

He said the state Department of Labor and Industry has a new COVID-19 Guidance page at www.uc.pa.gov/COVID-19 that features helpful unemployment compensation-related updates for both workers and employers. This site will answer the vast majority of the UC questions being asked right now, and is continually updated as more information becomes available.

The website also includes unemployment information on a special COVID-19 resource page, which can be found at www.RepHeffley.com/coronavirus. Heffley’s Facebook page, at www.Facebook.com/RepHeffley, is another good resource for information, as they’ve posted a video there that explains the UC application process.

Unemployment claimants who are experiencing problems with their applications are encouraged to call one of Heffley’s district offices and leave a message. Heffley’s staff, who are working remotely, will return the call as soon as possible. Heffley’s number in Weissport is 610-377-6363, and to reach him in Albrightsville, call 570-722-88700.

“It is important to note that self-employed individuals and independent contractors who are normally ineligible for unemployment benefits should not file a claim at this time because the system is not currently set up to accept them,” he said. “Rest assured, once the system is able to handle those types of claims, we will let you know.”

Heffley said other programs to assist business owners are available through the federal Small Business Administration and the Carbon County Chamber and Economic Development Corporation.