Update: I filed my claim yesterday following everyone's advice. I listed my separation reason as layoff due to acquisition and explained the situation in detail. I uploaded my last paystub, leave approval, and return-to-work date documentation. Fingers crossed it goes through smoothly! I'll update once I hear anything.

That's absolutely correct about requesting payments. So many people make the mistake of waiting for approval before making their biweekly payment requests. Even if your claim is still under review, log in and request payment when scheduled. If approved, you'll receive all eligible back payments for properly requested weeks.

I want to reassure you that if you already applied for DUA within the initial application window after Hurricane Samuel (which was April 15-May 15, 2025), your application should still be in their system. The process should work like this: 1. You exhaust regular UI benefits 2. TWC should automatically review your eligibility for DUA at that point 3. If additional documentation is needed, they'll contact you That said, government bureaucracy being what it is, it's always best to be proactive. About 2-3 weeks before your regular benefits end, contact the DUA specialists directly. Document every call (date, time, representative name, and what they told you). Also, continue to file your payment requests during the transition period so there's no gap in your claim history. This creates a record showing you remained unemployed due to the disaster throughout.

UPDATE: Finally got through to TWC this morning! For anyone else in this situation, here's what they told me: 1. Since I already applied for DUA within the 30-day window after Hurricane Samuel, my application is still valid 2. When my regular UI exhausts, I need to call them directly to activate the DUA benefits 3. There won't be any automatic transition - I have to initiate it 4. I should call 2 weeks before my regular benefits end 5. I need to bring proof my workplace is still closed due to hurricane damage Thank you everyone for your help! This community is amazing.

not to be that person but maybe they're right?? retail is a standing job, if you cant do the requirements..... also before everyone attacks me my mom worked retail through 2 pregnancies standing all day

Update: I got my doctor's note today! It specifically states I need to be allowed to sit for 5-10 minutes every couple of hours when experiencing dizziness and should have access to water throughout my shift. I'm going to email it to HR tonight. Thanks everyone for your advice - I'll update again when I hear back from them.

btw after u do the id.me thing make sure u log back into the twc unemployment account again. alot of ppl think there done after id.me but u have to go back and finish the claim on the twc site. also the first payment is always the slowest, after that its usualy pretty quick if u do the payment requests right

That's great to know! I'll make sure he completes both steps. So after the initial approval, the subsequent payments should come more quickly?

IMPORTANT: Have you talked to an employment lawyer yet? Many will do free consultations. You might have a case for hostile work environment that's worth more than unemployment benefits. Sexual harassment + company not protecting you from continued harassment could be a legal claim.

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.