im about to start a new job next week after unemployment and now im worried the same thing will happen with my final payment! does anyone know if theres a way to get proof when you submit a payment request? like maybe print the screen or something?

Quick update on appeal timing: As of 2025, TWC appeal hearings for payment request issues are currently being scheduled about 4-6 weeks out from filing. This is actually faster than it was last year when the backlog was much worse. So if you do decide to appeal, you might not have to wait as long as some people experienced in the past.

make sure ur checking ur spam folder for emails from TWC too! i missed a request for additional info and it delayed my claim by like 2 weeks 🤦‍♀️

Just wanted to update that based on recent reports from other claimants, TWC seems to be experiencing higher than normal processing times for regular unemployment claims right now. I've heard from several people who waited 4-5 weeks for approval in July and August. If you're approaching week 4 with no changes, that's when I'd recommend trying to reach someone by phone or through your state representative.

That's really good to know - I probably would have made that exact mistake. I'll keep doing my payment requests no matter what.

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

After reading through all the comments, I want to add a few more points: 1. If you do decide to quit, be very specific in your TWC application about the hostile work environment and retaliation. Use the phrase "constructive discharge" - it's when an employer deliberately creates intolerable working conditions forcing an employee to resign. 2. Texas law protects workers who report sexual assault from retaliation. Cutting hours after your report could qualify as retaliation. 3. When documenting, include dates, times, what was said/done, and who witnessed it. 4. If you're able to speak with a TWC representative directly about your situation before filing, that can be helpful. The standard phone lines are usually jammed, which is why someone mentioned Claimyr - it can be worth it for complex cases like yours.

So sorry you're going through this! One thing nobody mentioned - if you do need to quit, try to line up another job first if possible. Even with a valid "good cause" quit, TWC benefits can take 4-6 weeks to start if everything goes smoothly, and MUCH longer if your employer contests it (which they probably will). My determination letter took 8 weeks, and then I had to appeal which took another month. I almost lost my apartment waiting for benefits to start. Just something to prepare for financially if you can.

Update: I just wanted to add something important - when you file, TWC will ask about the reason for your separation from employment. Make sure you accurately indicate you were laid off (not fired for cause or that you quit). This affects your eligibility. Since your employer is continuing to pay you, they might not have reported your separation to TWC yet, which could cause confusion. You might want to speak with your former employer to ensure you're both on the same page about how your separation is classified.

Just one more thing - make sure you setup direct deposit right away in the TWC system! The debit card option takes way longer to get your money and has all kinds of weird fees. The direct deposit option is buried deep in the account settings and easy to miss.