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did they also tell you you need to do the work search activities? I got confused cuz I thought DUA didnt require that but then for regular UI I had to submit 3 job contacts every week? whole system is confusing
Based on all your responses, it sounds like you're doing everything right! You've: 1. Completed ID.me verification 2. Been requesting payments every two weeks 3. Following the work search requirements 4. Found your regular UI claim that's pending At this point, it's just a waiting game. With disaster-related claims, TWC is experiencing high volume, so it might take another week or two for your claim to be processed. Once approved, you'll receive all back payments for the weeks you've been requesting payment. If you need to speak with someone at TWC urgently about your claim status (especially with bills coming due), that Claimyr service mentioned above is probably your best bet for getting through quickly rather than spending hours redialing.
Thank you so much for all the help! I feel so much better now understanding what's happening. I was really panicking thinking I might not get any benefits at all. I'll give the claim another week to process, and if it's still pending, I'll try that Claimyr service to speak with someone. You've all been so helpful!
This entire system is DESIGNED TO FAIL US when we need it most!!! They make it impossible to reach anyone then act like it's OUR fault when we can't jump through their ridiculous hoops. I waited 14 weeks last year only to be denied for some technicality they never even told me about until it was too late to appeal. The whole thing is a SCAM to avoid paying benefits we EARNED through our work!!!
While the frustration is understandable, this isn't entirely accurate. The system is certainly overwhelmed and bureaucratic, but there are legitimate processes to resolve claim issues. I work with TWC claims regularly, and most delayed claims have specific verification problems that can be resolved. The key is getting through to the right department. @OP - Don't let this discourage you. Your claim can still be processed successfully with the right approach.
Given your urgent situation, here's a comprehensive approach: 1. For your pending TWC claim: Continue pursuing this for the backpay you're entitled to. As others mentioned, using Claimyr or contacting your state representative are your best options for expediting this. 2. For your immediate internet need: Contact your new employer immediately and explain the disaster situation. Most companies have protocols for this and may be able to provide alternatives for your first few days. 3. For utilities: Call 211 as suggested for emergency utility assistance. Also reach out to local churches and community action agencies - many have funds specifically for helping with utility restoration after disasters. 4. Document everything: Keep records of all your attempts to contact TWC, your conversations with your employer, and the impact of the disaster. This documentation can help if you need to file appeals or request special consideration. Your case actually has multiple priority factors (disaster impact, imminent employment, and extended wait time) that should qualify you for expedited processing if you can reach the right person at TWC.
Thank you so much for laying this all out clearly. I've been so stressed I couldn't think straight. I just got off the phone with 211 and they referred me to two agencies that might be able to help with the utilities. I'm going to try reaching my state rep now, and if that doesn't work quickly, I'll try that Claimyr service tomorrow. I really appreciate everyone's help here - feeling a tiny bit less hopeless now.
My sister had her RESA thing last month and she said they never sent her the link until she called and complained. The whole system is so disorganized! But when she finally got the link it was just a boring Zoom meeting about resumes and stuff. She kept her camera off and just listened while playing games on her phone lol
UPDATE: I finally got through to my local Workforce Solutions office this morning. My RESA event IS virtual! They apologized for the confusion and sent me the Teams link. Thanks everyone for your help and advice - I'll be attending in about an hour. For anyone else facing this issue, definitely call your local office directly rather than waiting for an email that might never come!
wait so they TOLD u that gifts from friends count?? that makes no sense. did they say anything about how theyd even know about cash that wasnt from ur job???
Yes, they specifically said any income needs to be reported regardless of source. They didn't explain how they'd know, but honestly I'd rather just follow the rules than risk getting hit with an overpayment notice later. The agent mentioned they have ways of verifying income during audits, and it's not worth the risk to me.
If you really wanna hear something crazy I got furloughed last year then they gave us all "retention bonuses" to stay with the company even though we weren't working any hours? Makes no sense. TWC counted that against my benefits even though I wasn't actually working to earn it. The whole system is weird.
That's because any payment from your employer is considered wages, even if you're not actively working hours to earn it. Retention bonuses are specifically designed to be compensation, which is why they counted against your benefits. It's different from severance in some ways, but TWC treats most employer payments as reportable income.
Liam O'Sullivan
That's really good to know - I probably would have made that exact mistake. I'll keep doing my payment requests no matter what.
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NeonNova
One additional piece of advice - when you speak with TWC, specifically reference Texas Administrative Code §815.28(a)(2)(E) which states that good cause for refusing suitable work includes
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