


Ask the community...
Update: I applied yesterday and listed both income sources. The online system was confusing but I managed to get through it. Now my claim status says "under review" and mentions something about determining my "base period wages" - whatever that means. Guess I'll be making some phone calls to figure out what's next. Thanks for all the advice everyone!
Base period" wages refers to how they calculate your benefit amount - they look at your earnings over the first four of the last five completed calendar quarters. This is why documentation is so important. Since'we re in Q2 of 2025 now,'they ll look at your income from January-December 2024. "The under" review status is normal while they verify both incomesources.
btw the hearng will probly be over the phone not in person. thats how mine was. make sure ur in a quite place with good signal so u dont get cut off!!!
Good point. Also make sure your phone is charged! My hearing lasted almost an hour.
The real problem is TWC is DESIGNED to side with employers initially. They know most people give up and don't appeal. And they make the appeal process as slow and painful as possible hoping even more people give up. I filed a complaint with the DOL after my case because of how they handled it. Didn't change anything for me personally but maybe if enough people report the issues they'll be forced to improve the system.
While there are certainly issues with the system, I don't think it's fair to say TWC is designed to side with employers. The initial determination process is just more streamlined and doesn't always allow for thorough review of all evidence. That's precisely why the appeal process exists - to provide a more comprehensive review when needed. The backlog is unfortunate but it's more a result of understaffing than an intentional barrier.
One more important thing about DUA that others haven't mentioned: There's a 30-day application deadline from when the DUA program is announced for your disaster area. Unlike regular unemployment which you can apply for anytime, DUA has a strict window. Make sure you don't miss it even if you're still gathering documentation.\n\nAlso, your pay documentation issue is common for 1099 workers. TWC has a specific affidavit form for self-employed or 1099 workers applying for DUA. You'll need to report your earnings as accurately as possible based on the Venmo/check records you have. Be prepared to provide bank statements showing the deposits as supporting evidence.\n\nRegarding the termination reason: be completely transparent, but frame it in the context of how the disaster created the circumstances that led to your job loss (having to care for children, disruption to normal work patterns, etc.
Thank you for mentioning the 30-day deadline! I had no idea about that - definitely going to get my application in ASAP. Do you know if I need to have all my documentation ready when I first apply, or can I submit the application first and then provide documentation later when they request it?
One important thing to remember about DUA that many people miss: You need to provide proof of employment within 21 days of applying. This can be pay stubs, employment records, or bank statements showing deposits from your employer. Since you're still with the same employer, ask them for a letter confirming your employment status and the dates you were temporarily laid off due to the disaster. Having this documentation ready will prevent delays in your claim processing.
I didn't realize I needed documentation! My boss already offered to write a letter explaining the situation since several of us are applying for DUA. We were closed for repairs after 2 feet of water got into the restaurant. I'll make sure to upload that with my application.
Paolo Conti
Hey, quick question - did you have any changes in your work situation during that pay period? Sometimes even a small shift can trigger a denial.
0 coins
Dylan Wright
•Now that you mention it, I did pick up a small gig for like 2 days. I reported it, but maybe that's what caused it?
0 coins
Paolo Conti
•Yep, that could definitely be it! Make sure you have all the details about that gig when you call them. Good luck!
0 coins
Amina Sow
idk man, maybe its time to learn to code 💻
0 coins