The fake write-up situation is complicated. They claimed during the hearing that I was never written up, but I have an email where my manager forwarded me a write-up and explicitly said

This sounds like a really strong case for a Commission Appeal! The fact that they immediately cut your email access and asked for keys back the SAME DAY you left for medical reasons is huge evidence of termination, not quitting. Plus their story changing during the hearing from "quit" to "job abandonment" should definitely work in your favor. I went through something similar and what helped me was organizing all the evidence chronologically - like showing the timeline of events (medical issue → leaving work → immediate access revocation → key request) to prove it was clearly a termination. The Commission tends to look more carefully at cases where employers contradict themselves. Also, since you mentioned having recordings and emails, make sure to include transcripts of the key parts. That email about the NDA and key return is golden evidence! Don't lose hope - the Commission Appeal process is your chance to get this overturned with all the documentation you have.

btw the reliacard app is decent for tracking when $ hits. better than checking account balance constantly

One thing I learned the hard way - if you're cutting it close with bill due dates, call your creditors/utility companies NOW to let them know you might be a few days late. Most of them will work with you if you give them a heads up, especially if you explain you're waiting on unemployment benefits. I avoided late fees on my electric bill this way when my first TWC payment took 4 days instead of the expected 2. Don't wait until after the due date to call - do it before you even request the payment!

Based on recent claims I've helped people with, here's what's likely happening with your February 6th claim: It's probably under review because TWC is verifying your employment history and reason for separation with your employer(s). This typically takes 3-4 weeks but can take longer if: 1. Your employer disputes your reason for separation 2. You worked for multiple employers in your base period 3. There are wage verification issues 4. Your identity verification (ID.me) has any flags If it's been more than 4 weeks, I would definitely try to speak with a TWC agent. When they do approve your claim, you should receive all back payments at once, minus the waiting week as someone else mentioned.

I'm going through something similar right now - filed my claim in mid-February and still waiting for approval. It's so stressful not knowing when the money will come through! From what I've read here and experienced with friends who've been through this, it sounds like when your claim does get approved, you'll get all your back payments in one lump sum rather than staggered. That's at least one less thing to worry about. Have you tried calling TWC first thing in the morning right when they open? I've heard that's when you have the best chance of getting through, though it's still really hit or miss. The waiting is the worst part - hang in there!

While looking for an attorney is certainly your right, I'd still recommend trying to resolve this on your own first. The appeal process for TWC cases is designed to be navigated without legal representation. The hearing officer will ask questions to get the facts and make a decision based on Texas law. Before hiring an attorney, consider: 1. Carefully reading your determination letter to understand exactly why you were denied 2. Gathering all documentation that proves your position was eliminated (emails, termination letter, severance agreement, etc.) 3. Making a list of witnesses who can testify that your job was eliminated 4. Practicing your explanation of why you believe the determination is incorrect If you still want an attorney after preparing these items, you'll be in a better position to evaluate whether they're knowledgeable about your specific situation.

I'm also in the DFW area and went through a TWC appeal a couple years ago. While I didn't use the specific attorney mentioned by Brandon, I did find that having legal representation made a huge difference in my case. The employer's HR department brought their own legal counsel to the hearing, so I was really glad I wasn't going in alone. A few things that helped me during my search: - Ask potential attorneys about their specific experience with "misconduct" vs "job elimination" cases like yours - Find out if they'll attend the hearing with you or just prep you beforehand - Get clarity on what documents they'll help you gather vs what you need to provide Also, make sure to file your appeal within the 14-day deadline if you haven't already! The timeframe is strict. Good luck with your case - sounds like you have solid documentation to prove it was a RIF and not misconduct.

UPDATE: My payment just hit my Chime account! It was exactly 2 business days after it showed as processed. Thanks everyone for your help and reassurance. Such a relief to finally have some funds.

Congrats on getting your payment! For future reference, I've found that Chime is pretty consistent with TWC deposits - usually 1-2 business days after "processed" status like you experienced. Just a heads up though, make sure to keep an eye on your payment request dates going forward. I learned the hard way that if you miss your bi-weekly request window, it can delay everything by a week or more. The TWC system can be finicky but once you get into a routine it gets easier to predict the timing.