idk if this helps but my mom was on unemployment last year and broke her ankle. she couldnt do interviews for like 6 weeks but still got her benefits. she just uploaded the hospital papers to her twc account and kept requesting payment

It sounds like based on your responses that you're starting to understand the key distinction here. I think you have a valid path forward if you approach this correctly. For your specific situation with long COVID, I'd recommend taking these steps: 1. Have your doctor create documentation that clearly states what types of work you CAN perform (remote, part-time, sedentary, etc.) along with necessary accommodations 2. Call TWC using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to connect faster - waiting for hours on the regular line will just exhaust you further with your health issues 3. Request the specific form for medical work search adjustment (they'll email it to you) 4. Continue to request payments while answering that you ARE able and available for suitable work 5. Keep detailed records of any work searches you do complete, focusing on positions that match your current capabilities 6. If you're having a severe symptom day when a TWC appointment is scheduled, call immediately to reschedule rather than missing it Many people with long COVID have found that emphasizing their ability to work remotely or on a modified schedule has been successful with TWC. The key is framing your situation as needing accommodation rather than being unable to work.

i got dua last year and they kept sending me emails about the disaster period ending soon but then they extended it twice. ended up getting almost 8 months total but they kept saying it was gonna end. the whole thing is confusing nobody at twc gives the same answer

I finally got through to someone at TWC this morning! For anyone else wondering about DUA duration, the agent confirmed my benefits will last exactly 26 weeks from the disaster declaration date (not from when I applied). But she also said benefits could potentially end earlier if FEMA declares the disaster period over or if my workplace reopens sooner than expected. I need to keep checking my TWC correspondence since they'll send notices about any changes. Thanks everyone for your help!

One more thing - when you file, make sure you have your last 18 months of employment info ready. TWC calculates your benefit amount based on your earnings during the "base period" (the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters). Also, start doing your work searches right away - Texas requires 3 work search activities per week, and you need to document them for when you do your payment requests.

I HAD THE SAME PROBLEM!!!! The TWC website is so confusing about this! I waited to file and regretted it because it delayed my benefits by two weeks. Don't make my mistake!!! Also my ex-boss tried to say I quit but I appealed and won because I had text messages proving they laid me off. SAVE ALL COMMUNICATION with your employer in case they try to fight your claim!!!

Another thing nobody mentioned yet - DUA has different documentation requirements than regular unemployment! They will ask for proof of employment or self-employment that was affected by the disaster. If you don't provide this proof by their deadline (usually within 21 days of your application), YOUR BENEFITS WILL STOP and they'll demand everything back as an overpayment! Make sure you've submitted all required documentation!!!

To summarize what everyone has shared: 1. DUA benefits last up to 26 weeks from the disaster declaration date (February 20, 2025 in your case) 2. You must continue filing payment requests every two weeks to receive benefits 3. Work search requirements (3 activities per week) apply unless you have a specific return-to-work date 4. You must report ALL income earned during your benefit period 5. Your benefits can end early if: - Your employer reopens - TWC determines suitable work is available in your area - You fail to provide required documentation - You miss payment request deadlines Since you're having trouble reaching TWC, I recommend trying early in the morning (right when they open at 7:00 AM) or using an assistance service to connect with them. Getting your specific questions answered directly by TWC is important since disaster benefits can have county-specific rules.

i got DUA after the 2023 wildfire and had same problem... tried calling for weeks with no luck... finally my state rep's office helped me get through to TWC. try calling your state representative's office, sometimes they have direct lines to TWC case managers. didn't get me more money but at least got an explanation!

One other thing to consider - you should also look into FEMA's Individual Assistance program if you haven't already. It won't provide ongoing weekly income like DUA, but can help with disaster-related expenses. And definitely check if your county has any local disaster relief funds available. Many communities set up special programs after major disasters that can supplement the federal benefits.