One more important point: when you file your initial claim, you'll be asked for the reason for separation. Be truthful but precise - don't simply say you were fired for attendance. Instead, explain that you were terminated after unavoidable absences that were properly reported according to company policy (assuming that's true). The exact wording matters a lot in how TWC initially categorizes your claim. Something like "Terminated after absences due to documented vehicle failure and child's illness, all reported according to company policy" frames it more accurately than just "fired for absences.

Just wanted to add that you should also check if your employer had any accommodations available that you weren't offered. For example, if they had flexible scheduling options or unpaid leave policies that could have addressed your situation, and they didn't offer those before terminating you, that could strengthen your case. Also, make sure to file your claim as soon as possible - even if you think it might be denied. There's a waiting period before benefits start anyway, and if you do win an appeal later, you'll get backpay from when you first filed. Don't wait thinking you need to have all your documentation perfect first - you can always submit additional evidence during the appeals process. Good luck with your claim! The fact that you followed proper call-in procedures and have some documentation puts you in a better position than many people in similar situations.

Quick update request: Has your payment status changed yet? It might help others to know your timeline once this gets resolved.

Hey Kaylee! First off, congrats on winning your appeal - that's a huge relief after 2 months of fighting! I went through something similar last fall and wanted to share what I learned. After my "Decision Mailed" status appeared, it took exactly 6 business days for the money to hit my account via direct deposit. The key thing is that TWC has to update their system to remove all the holds, then process each week individually. One thing that really helped me was setting up text alerts through the TWC portal if you haven't already - I got notified the moment my payment status changed to "processed." Also, just a heads up that your first payment might be slightly delayed compared to future ones because they have to calculate any federal/state tax withholdings on the lump sum. But $4,200 is going to feel amazing when it finally comes through! Keep us posted on your timeline - it really helps others in similar situations.

I finally got through to TWC after trying for 3 weeks straight (busy signals, disconnects, the whole mess). I used Claimyr.com to get connected - took about 15 minutes instead of days of calling. The agent I spoke with confirmed that for DUA claims, they CAN backdate to when the disaster affected your employment, regardless of when you filed, as long as you filed within the disaster-specific deadline (which was extended for the May storms). Definitely worth checking out their service if you're still having trouble getting through. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh so you can see how it works. Good luck with your backdating! Based on what the agent told me, you should be eligible since you filed in July.

I went through something similar with DUA backdating last year. Here's what worked for me: I submitted everything through the TWC correspondence portal in writing rather than calling. Include a clear timeline showing when the disaster hit, when you lost work, and why you didn't file immediately. The key is being very specific about the connection between the disaster and your work loss. Since you have documentation that your client cancelled specifically because of storm damage, that's perfect evidence. Also mention that you're self-employed and weren't aware of DUA eligibility - that's considered valid good cause. One tip: when you submit the request, ask for a written determination with appeal rights. Sometimes they'll deny backdating verbally over the phone but approve it when you force them to put their decision in writing. The written process seems to get better results because supervisors review it more carefully. Good luck! With the extended deadline and your solid documentation, you should have a strong case.

Thank you so much! I do have an email from our general manager announcing the closure. I'll scan and upload that tonight. I also found a local news article about the closure online. If I don't hear back by next week, I think I'll try that Claimyr service out of desperation. Really appreciate everyone's help!

I'm dealing with something similar - filed 3 weeks ago and still waiting. From what I've learned lurking in this community, it really does seem like a combination of factors affects timing. Some people get lucky with quick processing, while others hit various snags in the system. What helped me stay somewhat sane during the wait was setting up a daily routine to check for updates rather than obsessing over it multiple times a day. I check my TWC portal once in the morning and once in the evening, and that's it. Also, make sure you're continuing to request payment every two weeks even if your claim isn't approved yet - you'll get all those weeks paid retroactively once it goes through. That was something I almost missed doing because I thought "what's the point if I'm not approved yet." Hang in there! The waiting is brutal but it sounds like you're doing all the right things to follow up on your claim.

Just to follow up - once you do receive your Reliance card, be sure to activate it immediately by calling the number on the sticker. Also, create an online account at usbankreliacard.com to monitor your balance and transactions. You can set up alerts for deposits and withdrawals, which is really helpful. Many people don't realize you can also use this card at most ATMs, though some charge fees. U.S. Bank ATMs are free, and you get one free withdrawal per deposit period at other ATMs (after that, there's a $2 fee). Has your card arrived yet? It's been a few days since your original post.

Glad to hear your card finally arrived! For future reference, if anyone else is dealing with this issue, you can also contact TWC directly at 800-939-6631 to verify that your payment method change was processed correctly. Sometimes there can be delays on their end that aren't immediately visible in your online account. Also, if you ever need to switch back to direct deposit later, make sure to do it right after you certify for benefits - not in the middle of a payment cycle. This helps avoid processing delays and ensures smoother transitions between payment methods. The whole system could definitely be more user-friendly, but at least once you get the card set up, future payments should be much faster!