I actually prefer TeleServ now! Found it easier than clicking through all those website pages. You can actually request payment pretty quick once you get used to it.

I've been using TeleServ exclusively for about 6 months now and honestly prefer it over the website! The key is to call right when they open at 7 AM - I've never had to wait more than a minute or two. The system walks you through everything step by step, and it's actually faster than navigating all those web pages. Just make sure you have good cell service when you call (obviously won't be an issue if you're camping in an area with coverage). One thing I learned the hard way - if you accidentally hang up or get disconnected partway through, you can call back and start over without any issues. The system doesn't penalize you for incomplete attempts. Have fun on your camping trip!

Pro tip: Take screenshots of the error messages. If you end up having to call (which you probably will), having those can help the rep understand what's going on faster.

I went through the same nightmare last month! What finally worked for me was using a different device entirely - switched from my phone to my laptop and it went through on the first try. Also, make sure you're not using any VPN or ad blockers as those can interfere with the submission process. The system seems super finicky about browser extensions. If all else fails, try calling the TWC customer service line at 8am sharp when they open - you'll have better luck getting through than later in the day.

One more important thing - while your appeal is pending, make sure you continue to request payment for each two-week period. Even though you'll get a message saying you're currently ineligible, you need to keep submitting those payment requests. If your appeal is successful, you'll only get paid for the periods you properly requested payment for. A lot of people stop doing their payment requests while waiting for an appeal decision, and then they lose out on those weeks of benefits even if they win their appeal.

I went through something similar last year and want to emphasize what others have said about the appeal process - it's absolutely worth fighting this! One thing I learned is that DUA eligibility often comes down to very specific wording in your documentation. When I appealed, I made sure my employer's letter included the phrase "direct result of the disaster" rather than just saying the job was delayed. The TWC seems to look for that exact language. Also, if you have any text messages or emails from your employer about the delay due to hurricane damage, include those too. Sometimes informal communication can actually strengthen your case because it shows the timeline of how the disaster affected your employment. Don't let them discourage you - many people win these appeals with the right documentation!

Final update: The back pay came through today! It was deposited as one lump sum payment for all weeks, exactly as most of you said. It took exactly 3 business days after I submitted all the payment requests. Such a relief to finally have this money after months of struggling. Thanks again to everyone who helped me figure this out!

Congratulations on getting your back pay sorted out! This thread is really helpful for anyone dealing with similar issues. Just wanted to add that if people are having trouble finding that "request previous weeks" option, it's usually under the Payment Request section but sometimes it's labeled differently - look for "Request Payment for Prior Claim Weeks" or "Retroactive Payment Request." The TWC system can be confusing but once you know where to look it's pretty straightforward. Really glad everything worked out for you Dylan!

Thank you all for the helpful responses! Based on the consensus, I'm going to wait until my final payment processes (probably by Friday) and then request the waiting week. It's a relief to know I have 30 days to request it after exhaustion. I was worried there was some tight deadline I might miss. I'm still job hunting but have two promising interviews next week, so hopefully I won't need to worry about benefits extension or anything like that. This community has been so helpful during this stressful time!

Just wanted to add my experience for anyone else reading this thread - I went through the same process about 6 months ago. The key thing that helped me was keeping detailed records of all my payment dates and amounts. When I called to request my waiting week, the TWC agent was able to quickly verify my exhaustion date and process it immediately over the phone. Also, if you're having trouble getting through on the phone lines, try calling right at 8 AM when they open - I had better luck early in the morning. The automated system for requesting waiting weeks actually worked fine for me, so you might not even need to speak to a live agent. Hope this helps someone else going through this stressful process!