btw if ur stressing about money while waiting, once ur claim is approved they'll backpay u for all the weeks u requested payment during the waiting period. so make sure u keep requesting payment every 2 weeks even if its still pending

It's worth mentioning that your situation is classified as a "lack of work" separation, which is one of the clearest qualifications for unemployment benefits. When a business closes entirely, there's no question that the separation wasn't your fault. Your claim should be straightforward once TWC completes their verification process. The most important thing now is staying on top of your payment requests and work search activities while your claim is processing.

Why don't you just call the FEMA helpline instead? They coordinate with TWC on disaster benefits. I found them MUCH easier to reach than TWC. They helped me understand my DUA timeline when I couldn't get through to TWC.

UPDATE: I finally got through to TWC this morning! For anyone who has the same question - DUA end dates vary depending on which disaster affected you. The November 17th date was specifically for Hurricane Emily victims in certain counties. My benefits (Jefferson County flooding) actually continue until January 15, 2026! The agent said I should have received a determination letter with this info, but they had my old address on file so I never got it. She's sending a new copy. Thank you everyone for your help! Such a relief to know I've still got benefits while my workplace is being repaired.

Great question. When you file a new claim, everything resets. So yes, you'll need to do the standard 3 work search activities per week unless you get a specific exemption. The temporary layoff status doesn't automatically carry over to a new benefit year/claim. The OP would need to indicate on the new application if they have a definite return-to-work date with a new employer.

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!

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!

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.