After checking the latest TWC disaster assistance guidelines, I want to correct my earlier information. The program is actually called Disaster Unemployment Assistance Extension (DUAE), not DEUC as I previously stated. You need to file within 30 days of the announcement of the extension program, not 30 days from the disaster itself. You'll need to call TWC directly and specifically ask for the DUAE application related to Hurricane Beryl. Be prepared to provide proof that your continued unemployment is directly related to Beryl damage.

Just to update everyone - TWC announced a Hurricane Beryl DUAE program last week that provides up to 13 additional weeks of benefits for those who have exhausted regular UI and remain unemployed due to Beryl. You must certify that your continued unemployment is directly related to Hurricane Beryl damage. Apply through your existing TWC account and select "Apply for Disaster Extension" from the main menu. The deadline to apply is April 15, 2025.

Based on all the information shared in this thread, here's what I recommend you do: 1. Use Claimyr or keep trying to reach TWC directly to discuss your specific situation 2. Ask about any Extended Benefits or special disaster-related extensions that might be available after your regular benefits exhaust 3. Register with the Disaster Recovery Employment Program 4. Maintain your work search activities and payment requests even after benefits exhaust 5. File for all available FEMA assistance if you haven't already 6. Get written documentation from your employer about their projected reopening timeline The system is definitely imperfect when it comes to long-term disaster recovery, but staying proactive and maintaining all requirements gives you the best chance at accessing additional help if it becomes available.

I'm new here but dealing with a similar situation after the recent storms. Reading through all these responses has been really eye-opening - I had no idea about the difference between DUA and regular UI or that you can't switch between them. I'm currently on regular benefits too and worried about what happens when they run out since my workplace is also closed indefinitely. The suggestion about Claimyr seems really helpful since I've also been unable to get through to TWC by phone. And I definitely didn't know about the Disaster Recovery Employment Program or Extended Benefits - going to look into those right away. One question for everyone: has anyone actually seen Extended Benefits become available in Texas after a hurricane? I'm trying to manage my expectations about what might realistically be available when my regular benefits exhaust in a few months. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and advice - this thread has been more helpful than anything I've found on the official websites!

i had something similar happen when i was working for a school cafeteria company! filed in summer and got approved but then TWC sent me a letter saying i wasnt eligible and had to pay everything back! found out later my boss checked the wrong box about me having "reasonable assurance" of going back in fall. make sure ur boss fills out their paperwork right!!!

Thanks everyone for all the advice and sharing your experiences! I called my HR department today and they confirmed they'll be reporting our summer break as a temporary layoff, and they provided me documentation showing I'm employed by the contractor, not directly by the school. I also checked my TWC account and confirmed my previous overpayment was classified as non-fraud, so hopefully they'll only take 25-30% of my benefits. I'm going to file my claim tomorrow and make sure I select all the right options regarding my school contractor status. I'll update this thread once I find out if my claim is approved and how they handle the overpayment situation. Fingers crossed!

One more critical point about TWC claims for hostile work environment: when you file, you MUST specify that you quit due to "good cause connected with work" and then clearly explain the harassment. Don't just say you quit because of stress or personal reasons. Be very specific that you reported sexual harassment, the company's response was inadequate, and the environment became hostile. The exact wording matters tremendously for how your claim is processed.

I'm so sorry you're going through this. Sexual harassment at work is traumatic enough without having to deal with ongoing issues afterward. Just wanted to add that you should also consider reaching out to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) if you haven't already. You have 300 days from the last incident to file a discrimination complaint with them, and having an EEOC complaint on record can actually strengthen your TWC case for unemployment benefits. The EEOC filing is free and shows you took formal action to address workplace discrimination. Also, keep any medical records if you've seen a doctor or therapist about stress/anxiety related to this situation - that documentation can be helpful too. You deserve to work in a safe environment and shouldn't have to choose between your mental health and paying your bills.

I definitely don't have a return date since the company closed permanently. I've been applying to jobs like crazy anyway, so the 3 work search activities won't be a problem. Thanks for clarifying this!

Just wanted to share my experience since I went through something similar last year. I exhausted my benefits in November 2023 and filed a new claim right away. The whole process took about 3 weeks from application to first payment, but it was absolutely worth it. One thing I learned is to make sure you have all your employment documentation ready - pay stubs, W2s, etc. TWC might request additional verification of your work history, especially since you had that gap period when you were laid off initially. Also, double-check that your employer properly reported your wages to TWC for those months you worked in 2024. The good news is that since your company shut down permanently, there shouldn't be any issues with your separation reason. That's usually the cleanest type of layoff for UI purposes. Good luck with your application!