I just got off the phone with a TWC agent (finally!) who was much more helpful than the first one. She confirmed that since I'm in TWC-approved training, this should be considered

That's such great news! I'm really glad you got a more knowledgeable agent who could clarify the training benefits provision. It's frustrating how inconsistent the information can be between different TWC representatives. The fact that they're treating it as "good cause" because of the approved training program makes total sense - that's exactly what these workforce development programs are designed for. And having them expedite the review is huge since you're starting CDL training next week. Keep us updated on how it goes! Your situation will probably help other people in similar circumstances. CDL drivers are in such high demand right now, so this training investment should really pay off for you long-term.

I'm so sorry this happened to you! What your employer did is textbook pregnancy discrimination and you absolutely should file for unemployment benefits immediately. Don't let being close to your due date discourage you - your pregnancy actually strengthens your case, not weakens it. A few important points: - File your claim TODAY through WorkinTexas.com - When describing your separation, be clear that you were terminated after providing employer-requested medical documentation - Emphasize that reasonable accommodations were available (reassignment to older kids' rooms) - Keep all documentation - texts, emails, doctor's note, anything related to this You'll likely qualify for benefits right away, and when you give birth you can temporarily pause your claim during recovery, then resume when you're medically cleared to work again. Your claim stays open during that time. Also consider filing an EEOC complaint within 180 days - it's free and could result in additional compensation for the discrimination. You don't need a lawyer to file either the unemployment claim or EEOC complaint, though consulting one wouldn't hurt if you can manage it later. Stay strong - you're fighting for your rights and your baby's future! 💪

This is absolutely infuriating - what they did to you is completely illegal! You have a rock-solid case here. Apply for unemployment benefits IMMEDIATELY through WorkinTexas.com - don't wait another day. Here's the key thing everyone's mentioned but I want to emphasize: being 3 weeks from your due date actually HELPS your case, not hurts it. This is textbook pregnancy discrimination under both state and federal law. They literally asked YOU to bring documentation, then fired you when you complied! When you file, be crystal clear: "Employer requested medical documentation for pregnancy-related lifting restrictions. After providing doctor's note limiting lifting to 5lbs, employer terminated me rather than reassigning me to available positions that would accommodate restrictions." Document EVERYTHING - save those texts where they asked for the note, keep your doctor's paperwork, write down dates and conversations while they're fresh. You'll likely get approved quickly since this is such clear wrongful termination. And yes, definitely file that EEOC complaint too within 180 days. Many employment lawyers take discrimination cases on contingency (no upfront costs) if you decide to pursue that route later. You've got this mama - focus on getting your benefits flowing first, then worry about holding them accountable for this discrimination! 💪

UPDATE: I used the Claimyr service that someone recommended here, and I FINALLY got through to a TWC representative today! For anyone curious, here's what they told me: 1. My claim was indeed on hold because of the severance payment 2. They're treating my $5,200 severance as 4 weeks of regular pay (just like someone here predicted) 3. The reason I didn't get any letters is because there was a mailing address error in my file The agent fixed my address and said I should receive my determination letters within 7-10 days. They also confirmed that I'll be eligible for benefits after the severance period ends, and that all my payment requests are in the system. Such a relief to finally know what's happening! Thank you all for the advice and support.

Wow, what a journey! Thanks for sharing the update - this is really helpful for others who might be dealing with similar situations. An address error causing all those missing letters is such a simple but frustrating issue that could have been resolved weeks ago if TWC's phone system wasn't so hard to navigate. Your experience really shows how important it is to actually speak with a representative when things seem stuck. The fact that your claim was processing correctly the whole time but you just weren't getting notifications is both relieving and maddening at the same time. Hope your determination letters arrive soon and your payments start flowing after the severance period! Thanks for circling back to let everyone know how it turned out.

I had a 30 day notice before my layoff and I totally understand your anxiety! One thing no one mentioned yet - if your company has HR, talk to them directly about this. My HR person was actually super helpful and gave me a letter specifically stating I was being laid off due to position elimination, which made my TWC claim super smooth. Worth asking!

I went through this exact situation last year with a 45-day notice from my employer. I was terrified they were trying to set me up to fail, but it turned out to be completely fine. The advance notice actually worked in my favor - I had time to organize all my documents, research the TWC process, and even start networking while still getting paid. The key thing I learned is that TWC only cares about your final separation reason, not how much notice you got. Since you're being laid off due to lack of available positions (not performance or misconduct), you'll qualify for benefits regardless of the 60-day timeframe. My advice: Use this time wisely. Keep applying for jobs (both internal and external), document everything, and don't let them pressure you into quitting early. The worst thing you could do is resign before your official layoff date. Stay strong - you've got this!

congrats on the new job btw!! hope it all works out for u!

Just want to add one more thing - make sure you keep detailed records of when you start working and what you earn each week. I learned this the hard way when TWC asked me to verify my employment dates and earnings months later. Having pay stubs, start date documentation, and a simple calendar noting your work days will save you major headaches if they ever audit your claim. Good luck with the new job!