keep us updated!! i hope it works out for you!! the system is so unfair sometimes.

I went through something similar last year, though not quite as long a delay. A few additional tips that helped me: 1. Request a copy of your complete claim file from TWC before the hearing - you're entitled to see everything they have, including what your employer submitted 2. If your employer is claiming you were fired for misconduct, ask them to provide specific documentation of warnings, write-ups, or policies you allegedly violated 3. Keep the focus on facts, not emotions - even though it's infuriating to deal with this so long after the fact The good news is that TWC generally doesn't like to reverse determinations without compelling new evidence. Since you were already approved and followed all the rules during your benefit period, you're in a stronger position than someone appealing an initial denial. Also consider filing a complaint with TWC about the excessive delay if this causes you financial hardship - there should be reasonable time limits on when employers can challenge determinations.

Update to my earlier comment: I just checked TWC's official documentation. If you missed payment requests because the system didn't allow you to request them (as opposed to simply forgetting), you can file for what's called "backdated payment requests" after winning your appeal. You'll need to explain that the system didn't provide the option. Don't wait though - call them now to document your situation and get proper guidance for your specific case.

I'm going through something similar right now - filed my appeal two weeks ago and just realized I haven't been requesting payments because the option disappeared from my account too! This thread is a lifesaver. I had no idea we were supposed to keep requesting during appeals. Called Tele-Serv this morning after reading these comments and was able to submit my request for this week. For anyone else in this situation, the Tele-Serv number (800-558-8321) does work even when your online account doesn't show the payment request option. Just have your SSN and PIN ready. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences here - this could have cost me weeks of benefits!

Just to clarify for everyone - there's an important distinction between regular Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits exhaustion and Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA). When your regular UI benefits exhaust, you typically don't automatically qualify for DUA unless you're in an area affected by a federally declared disaster AND your continued unemployment is directly related to that disaster. The OP may have qualified because they were in an affected area and could demonstrate their continued unemployment was disaster-related. For most people whose benefits have exhausted, Extended Benefits or other UI extensions would be more appropriate than DUA (when available). If you need to contact TWC about your specific situation, persistence is key. If you're struggling to get through on the phone, consider scheduling an in-person appointment at your local Workforce Solutions office. They can sometimes help facilitate communication with TWC.

This is really helpful to hear! I've been struggling to get through to TWC for weeks after my benefits exhausted in early July. I'm also in one of the flood-affected counties but didn't realize I might still be able to apply for DUA. Did you have to provide any documentation proving your job loss was disaster-related, or was being in an affected county enough? Also, when you say you "completed 6 payment requests" - were those for all the weeks between when your regular benefits ended and when the DUA was approved? I'm trying to figure out how much backpay might be possible if I can get through to someone helpful like you did.

Quick update on the evidence question - yes, you should provide whatever documentation you have. For my wage claim, I included: 1. A copy of my time card for the final week 2. Text messages with my manager about my last day 3. A calculation of exactly what I was owed (hours × rate) 4. Evidence that I attempted to collect my check (texts asking about it) TWC actually resolved my case pretty quickly (about 6 weeks total). The online submission is definitely faster than mail. The form will ask for very specific information about your employment, so have your start date, end date, job title, manager's name, etc. ready before you begin.

Just wanted to add that if you do decide to file for unemployment benefits alongside your wage claim, make sure to mention the excessive mandatory overtime when you fill out your application. Texas considers "working conditions that are so unreasonable that a person of ordinary prudence would have felt compelled to resign" as good cause for quitting. Working 12 days straight and consistently being scheduled for 50+ hours when you requested fewer hours could definitely fall under this category. Keep all those text messages and schedule copies - they'll be crucial evidence for both your wage claim and any potential unemployment case. Good luck getting your money back!

UPDATE: I wanted to thank everyone for the helpful advice! I spoke with my HR department and showed them the handbook section about salary continuation. They're processing it now and said I should be covered for this week at 60% of my normal pay. Not perfect but WAY better than nothing! Also talked to my landlord who said he'd work with me if the payment is a few days late. Sometimes just asking directly for help works better than I expected. Thanks again everyone!

This is such a great outcome! Your experience is a perfect example of why it's so important to thoroughly read through your employee handbook - there are often benefits and protections that people don't know exist. The salary continuation benefit you found is exactly the kind of safety net that should bridge these gaps between sick leave and other programs. Also really glad to hear your landlord was understanding. Many landlords would rather work with a good tenant who communicates proactively than deal with the hassle of eviction proceedings. Hope your recovery goes smoothly and you're back to 100% soon! Thanks for updating us - it's helpful for others who might find themselves in similar situations to see that there can be solutions beyond just TWC unemployment benefits.