Quick update to my earlier advice - when you file for unemployment, make sure to report that you've earned wages that weren't paid. There's a specific question about this in the application. This is important because TWC calculates your benefit amount based on your earnings, and you want those unpaid wages included. For your wage claim, you'll need to provide: - Your employment dates - Your regular pay rate - Hours worked that weren't paid - Names of managers/supervisors - Any written promises of payment And yes, file the unemployment claim ASAP because it can take 2-3 weeks for the first payment even after approval.

I went through something similar with a roofing company in Houston. They kept giving me the runaround for 3 weeks about my final check. What finally worked was sending them a certified letter stating I would file a wage claim with TWC if payment wasn't received within 5 business days. Got my check 2 days later! But honestly, don't even waste time with that - just file both claims now like everyone said. The construction industry pulls this stuff all the time thinking workers won't know their rights. Also, when you file for unemployment, make sure to keep detailed records of your job search activities from day one. TWC can audit those records anytime.

I DID take one of their training programs last month for basic accounting and it was actually pretty good! The instructor was knowledgeable and they provided certifications that look decent on a resume. So while you're definitely not required to go, they're not all bad if you actually want to learn something new. Just depends on your situation I guess.

I'm in a similar situation - got laid off from my manufacturing job 3 weeks ago and already had two of these "training opportunity" calls. The first specialist was pretty aggressive about enrolling me in some welding certification program, even though I've been welding for 8 years and have multiple certs already. What bothered me most was how they made it sound like I was missing out on some amazing opportunity that might not be available later. Classic sales pressure tactics! I politely declined and explained my experience level, but she kept pushing for like 10 minutes. Good to see everyone confirming these are totally optional. I'm sticking to my job search strategy and keeping detailed records like others suggested. Thanks for posting this question - clearly a lot of us are dealing with the same thing!

Anyone else notice how they always deposit the money on weird days? Like never when you expect it lol. Sometimes its tuesday sometimes thursday... driving me nuts trying to budget!

Just wanted to add - once you start receiving payments, they usually come 2-3 business days after you request them (as long as you request on your assigned day). The exact day can vary like others mentioned, but it's typically within that timeframe. Also, your first payment might take a little longer since it's your first time in the system. Don't panic if it doesn't show up immediately! And definitely set up direct deposit if you haven't already - it's faster than waiting for a debit card to arrive in the mail.

Just to add something important - your friend should gather any evidence of his job search efforts while this is being resolved. Texas currently requires 3 work search activities per week to remain eligible for benefits. Even though his claim is denied right now, if he wins the appeal, he'll need to prove he was doing the required work searches during this waiting period to receive backpay for those weeks. Have him document everything and keep screenshots of job applications.

I work for a legal aid organization and see these employment verification denials all the time. A few additional things your friend should know: 1) He can request a copy of his entire TWC file through a Public Information Act request - this will show exactly what the employer told TWC when they were contacted. Sometimes employers give contradictory information that helps your case. 2) If he has any old work emails, employee handbook, name badge, uniform, or even photos of himself at work, include those with the appeal. Visual evidence can be very persuasive. 3) Consider having coworkers write brief affidavits (sworn statements) about his employment there. They don't have to testify at the hearing, but written statements under oath carry weight. 4) The employer's refusal to verify employment could actually constitute interference with unemployment benefits, which is illegal in Texas. Document every interaction he's had with them about this issue. The appeal hearing is his best shot - TWC hearing officers deal with dishonest employers regularly and know what to look for. With his W-2 and paystubs, he has a strong case. Good luck!

this belongs in a social security forum not unemployment lol

I went through this same panic when I first started collecting unemployment last year! It's definitely confusing because you think "benefit = earnings" but that's not how Social Security works. What helped me feel better was logging into my SSA.gov account and seeing that all my previous work credits were still there - unemployment doesn't erase what you've already earned. One thing to keep in mind is that if you do any freelance or gig work while on partial unemployment (which TWC allows up to your weekly benefit amount), THAT income would count toward Social Security if you pay the self-employment taxes on it. So there are still ways to earn credits even while collecting benefits. Good luck with your job search!