10 weeks waiting on TWC approval and starting new WFH job Monday with no utilities after storm damage

Congrats on the job but dang what a situation! I don't think u should file for disaster unemployment while ur regular claim is pending - that could flag ur whole account for fraud investigation and make everything worse. Have u tried calling the TWC disaster hotline directly? Its different than the regular unemployment number and sometimes easier to get through.

First, do NOT file a new application for disaster unemployment while you have a pending claim. This will absolutely create a duplicate claim issue that can take months to resolve. Instead: 1. Call the TWC Tele-Serv number (800-558-8321) and select the option to speak with a claim examiner about your pending claim. Explain you have a new job starting Monday but are affected by the recent disaster. 2. TWC does have procedures to expedite claims in genuine hardship situations. Request to have your claim marked for expedited processing due to imminent utility disconnection and job start requirements. 3. For your immediate internet need - reach out to your new employer ASAP. Many WFH employers will allow you to work from a library, co-working space, or even provide a hotspot temporarily in situations like yours. Don't wait until Monday to tell them. 4. Contact your local Workforce Solutions office directly - they sometimes have emergency assistance programs that can help with utility payments for people starting new jobs.

when i had to reach TWC i used this service called Claimyr that got me through to a real person in like 10 min instead of calling for days. its at claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh Worth it for me because i was in a similar situation where i needed urgent help. the TWC person was able to put a rush on my claim when i explained my hardship

DO NOT APPLY FOR DISASTER UNEMPLOYMENT!!! Omg please trust me on this!!! I did exactly that last year when we had those floods and it COMPLETELY messed up both claims. I ended up with a huge overpayment notice and spent 5 months getting it sorted out. TWC will see it as trying to double-dip. For your immediate problem though - check with United Way (dial 211). They helped me pay my electric bill when I was between jobs. Also most libraries have free wifi you could use for your first day if needed.

i know this is super frustrating but honestly ur better off focusing on the new job than stressing about TWC at this point. once you start working you probably won't qualify for more than a week or two of benefits anyway. for internet access check if your cell phone plan has hotspot - i had to use that for 3 days when my internet went out and it worked ok for most work stuff except video calls

I had a 12-week wait for my claim last year but finally got it resolved AND got all my backpay. Here's exactly what worked for me: 1. Contact your state representative's office (find them at https://house.texas.gov/members/find-your-representative/). Their constituent services can file an inquiry with TWC that usually gets attention within 48-72 hours. 2. When you finally reach TWC, ask specifically if there are any "issues pending resolution" on your claim. Sometimes there's just one small thing they need to verify. 3. For your immediate internet needs - most McDonald's and Starbucks have free WiFi you can use from their parking lot if necessary. Not ideal but it could get you through your first day. Keep all documentation of your attempts to contact TWC. This will help if they try to say you weren't actively pursuing your claim.

This entire system is DESIGNED TO FAIL US when we need it most!!! They make it impossible to reach anyone then act like it's OUR fault when we can't jump through their ridiculous hoops. I waited 14 weeks last year only to be denied for some technicality they never even told me about until it was too late to appeal. The whole thing is a SCAM to avoid paying benefits we EARNED through our work!!!

Given your urgent situation, here's a comprehensive approach: 1. For your pending TWC claim: Continue pursuing this for the backpay you're entitled to. As others mentioned, using Claimyr or contacting your state representative are your best options for expediting this. 2. For your immediate internet need: Contact your new employer immediately and explain the disaster situation. Most companies have protocols for this and may be able to provide alternatives for your first few days. 3. For utilities: Call 211 as suggested for emergency utility assistance. Also reach out to local churches and community action agencies - many have funds specifically for helping with utility restoration after disasters. 4. Document everything: Keep records of all your attempts to contact TWC, your conversations with your employer, and the impact of the disaster. This documentation can help if you need to file appeals or request special consideration. Your case actually has multiple priority factors (disaster impact, imminent employment, and extended wait time) that should qualify you for expedited processing if you can reach the right person at TWC.