Good point. I've been gathering everything for months - I have emails from my manager discussing the layoff, the official layoff notice, and even text messages where my supervisor acknowledged it was a layoff. I'm definitely ready for the hearing, I just wish they'd actually SCHEDULE it already!

I'm going through something similar right now - filed my appeal in January and still waiting. One thing that helped me was creating a timeline document with dates of all my interactions with TWC (when I filed, when I got confirmations, every time I called, etc.). It's been really useful for keeping track of everything and I plan to bring it to my hearing when it finally gets scheduled. Also, if you haven't already, try calling the Appeals line right when they open at 8 AM - I've had better luck getting through early in the morning. Hang in there, I know how stressful this waiting period is!

For your work search activities while waiting for determination: 1. Make sure you're doing at least 3 documented work search activities per week 2. Register with WorkInTexas.com if you haven't already (this is required) 3. Keep detailed records of all applications and contacts (company name, position, date, contact method, follow-up) A determination should come within 21 days, but with current backlogs it might take longer. Until then, you won't know if you're approved or denied, but you should continue requesting payments on your assigned day every two weeks. If approved, you'll receive payment for those weeks (minus the waiting week). And remember - even if initially denied, many people win on appeal, especially in situations like yours where there's no documented history of progressive discipline.

I'm in a similar boat right now - got terminated from my office job for "poor performance" but it was really because I questioned some questionable billing practices. Filed last Monday and still waiting on my determination letter. From what I've read on here and other forums, the key factors seem to be: - No prior documented warnings (sounds like you're good here) - Whether you were given a chance to improve (doesn't sound like it) - If the employer can prove actual misconduct vs just not meeting their standards The fact that you didn't sign their termination papers and contested it from day one is huge. It shows you genuinely disagreed with their reasoning rather than just trying to get benefits after accepting fault. Keep requesting your payments every two weeks even while waiting - that's what everyone here says to do. And definitely start gathering any evidence you have (performance reviews, emails, inventory reports, etc.) in case you need to appeal. Hang in there - sounds like you have a solid case based on what others have shared about similar situations.

Based on what you've shared, you have a very strong case for unemployment benefits under the family violence exception. Make sure you: 1. File as soon as your contract ends in June 2. Have all documentation ready to upload 3. Check your TWC correspondence inbox daily after filing 4. Complete your payment requests every two weeks even if your claim is under review 5. Keep detailed records of all your job search activities If you receive a determination letter approving benefits, great! If you receive a denial, file an appeal immediately (within 14 days) and clearly state that your separation was due to documented family violence as protected under Texas Labor Code 207.046.

I went through something very similar last year and want to offer some encouragement - TWC did approve my benefits under the domestic violence exception. A few things that helped my case: I filed online but then immediately called to speak with someone to explain the situation verbally (even though it took forever to get through). I also contacted the Texas Legal Aid hotline who helped me understand exactly how to present my case to TWC. They have specialists who deal with domestic violence situations and employment issues. The number is 1-833-457-5342. Don't give up if you get an initial denial - many of these cases require a human review rather than just the automated system. You're being so brave protecting yourself and your daughter. Wishing you the best outcome.

When I had my appeal hearing, I had my 3 year old screaming in the background and I was so embarrassed! But the hearing officer was actually really nice about it. Just wanted to say they're usually pretty understanding people. I was nervous too but it went way better than expected.

Just wanted to add - make sure you have a quiet space for the call and test your phone connection beforehand! I had my hearing last month and the connection kept cutting out, which made it really stressful. The hearing officer was patient about it, but it definitely made me more nervous. Also, if you get overwhelmed during the hearing, it's totally okay to ask for a moment to collect your thoughts or to ask them to repeat a question. They want to make sure you understand what's being asked. One thing that really helped me was writing out a basic timeline beforehand with key dates - when I started the ID.me process, when the hurricane hit, when I discovered the issue, etc. Having it written down made it easier to stay organized when explaining everything. You've got this! The fact that you have documentation of the hurricane and your attempts to complete verification puts you in a really good position.

One more important detail: when you request your payment every two weeks, if the temp agency contacts you about ANY potential work during that period, you must report that contact on your payment request, even if you didn't accept the assignment. Failure to report these contacts can result in an overpayment determination later. Also, make sure you're doing and documenting at least 3 work search activities each week. For temp workers, TWC is particularly strict about verifying these because they want to ensure you're actively looking for work while waiting for the agency to call.

I went through this exact situation 6 months ago with Express Employment. Here's what worked for me: I filed immediately after they told me "no assignments available" and was honest that I was still technically employed but with zero hours. The key is documenting EVERYTHING - I kept screenshots of all texts/emails from the agency saying no work was available. When they inevitably contested my claim (which they did after 10 days), I had solid proof they couldn't provide work. My advice: don't wait around hoping they'll call with something better. File now while you have clear documentation that no work is available. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to prove the timeline. Also, start your work search activities immediately - apply to direct-hire positions too, don't just rely on the temp agency. TWC wants to see you're actively seeking permanent employment, not just waiting around for temp assignments.