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I just had my TWC appeal hearing and I'm absolutely fuming. I spent 15+ hours creating a detailed document with timestamped evidence proving I followed the advice of a TWC agent who gave me incorrect information about my claim. The hearing officer admitted she hadn't even LOOKED at my evidence before the call! She put us in recess until some undefined 'later date' and kept talking to me like I was trying to cheat the system. This is beyond frustrating - I'm trying to access benefits my employer already paid into and never contested! My situation: I carefully read the TWC handbook, was confused about some requirements, so I called SIX separate times (spent over 2 hours total on the phone) with a TWC agent who gave me completely wrong information. I followed his guidance exactly, which led to my disqualification. Now I'm being treated like I'm committing fraud? How is there zero accountability when THEIR EMPLOYEE gives incorrect information that we rely on? I don't even want to get the guy in trouble - I just want my legitimate benefits. Has anyone successfully appealed in a situation like this? I feel like I'm being gaslit by the entire system.
I'm completely lost on what just happened. TWC called me today and interviewed me about why I got fired. They asked a bunch of questions, and I explained that I was terminated for allegedly missing too many shifts (which isn't even true - I had approved time off!). But during the call, the TWC rep mentioned that my employer listed MULTIPLE reasons for firing me that I've never even heard before! They're now claiming I was also insubordinate and violated company policy on something completely unrelated. I was shocked! Is this normal? Why would my ex-employer add extra reasons that weren't part of my termination? I'm worried they're trying to build a stronger case against me receiving benefits. Also, does the fact that TWC called mean things are going in my favor or against me? Never filed unemployment before so I'm totally confused about the process. Does anyone know what the TWC phone interview actually means for my case? Is there a silver lining here or should I be worried? Any insights would really help because I'm stressing out!
Yes, they did ask me about the other allegations and I denied them completely. The TWC rep seemed understanding when I explained I was hearing these claims for the first time. She asked for specific dates when these incidents supposedly happened, and I told her I couldn't address specifics since this was the first I was hearing of these accusations. Hoping that counts in my favor!
That's actually a really good sign that you were able to clearly state you were hearing these allegations for the first time! TWC investigators are trained to recognize when employers are piling on additional reasons after the fact, and your genuine surprise at hearing new accusations likely came through during the interview. The fact that you couldn't provide specific dates for incidents you never knew about actually works in your favor - it shows these weren't ongoing issues that you were aware of or had been counseled about. If these were legitimate performance/conduct issues, there should have been some paper trail or prior discussions. Keep documenting everything while it's fresh in your memory. Write down exactly what the TWC rep asked, what your responses were, and especially note that you expressed surprise at hearing the additional allegations for the first time. This could be important if you need to reference it later. Most determinations come within 1-2 weeks after the fact-finding interview, so you should hear something soon. Try not to stress too much - you've done what you can by being honest and providing your side of the story.
I'm currently working on a 6-month temporary contract job in Houston that ends in about 3 weeks. My supervisor hinted they probably won't be extending it due to budget cuts. I've never filed for unemployment before and I'm confused about whether temporary contract workers qualify in Texas. Does anyone know if I can apply for unemployment benefits when this contract ends? Do I need to wait until they officially tell me they won't renew, or should I start preparing now? I've been paying taxes the whole time and this was a W-2 position, not 1099 if that matters.
As a follow-up to my earlier comment, I want to address what others have mentioned about potential complications: 1. Yes, TWC will contact your employer to verify separation details 2. Your employer has 14 days to respond to TWC's notice 3. If they don't contest it and your documentation shows it was a temporary position ending as scheduled, approval is generally straightforward 4. The "temporary job" question is important - answer honestly that it was a temporary contract position The confusion some people experience comes from TWC distinguishing between: - A true temporary position with a predetermined end date (generally eligible) - Quitting a permanent job because you knew it might end someday (not eligible) As long as you have documentation showing it was explicitly a 6-month contract position, you should be fine. The key is proper documentation and accurate explanation of your situation.
I went through this exact situation about 8 months ago with a temp contract in Dallas. One thing I wish someone had told me - start documenting your work search activities NOW, even before your contract ends. When you file for unemployment, they're going to ask what you've been doing to find work, and having a head start on that documentation really helped me. Also, when you file online, there's a section where you can upload documents. I uploaded my original offer letter, my contract, and even some emails where my supervisor mentioned the temporary nature of the position. Having everything ready to upload during the application process seemed to speed things up for me. The whole process was actually much smoother than I expected. Just be honest about everything and have your paperwork ready. Good luck!
Just filed my payment request with TWC today (Tuesday) and I'm wondering if I'll still get paid on Thursday or Friday morning as usual? I'm really counting on that direct deposit hitting my account by the weekend because rent is due. I usually file on Sunday or Monday but had a job interview yesterday that ran late. Does filing on Tuesday delay when the money hits my account? My bills are stacking up and I can't afford any delays this month.
Quick update on my original comment - if your claim has any special circumstances (like this is your first payment request, you reported earnings, or answered 'yes' to any of the eligibility questions), that could add additional review time. Those factors can sometimes delay the standard processing timeline I mentioned earlier.
It's not my first payment, but I did report some part-time hours from a temp gig. Maybe that's causing additional delay? The status says "processed" now though.
I'm in a similar boat - filed Tuesday due to a scheduling conflict and really need that money by the weekend. Based on what everyone's saying here, it sounds like Friday is our best bet if the status shows "processed." I've been checking my account obsessively since filing! The anxiety of waiting when bills are due is the worst part of this whole unemployment process. Really wish TWC had more flexibility with their processing times for urgent situations.
I just submitted my first payment request for Texas unemployment yesterday. The TWC website says my claim is approved, but I have no idea how long it'll actually take before I see any money. My bills are piling up fast and I need to plan accordingly. Do payments typically come through direct deposit the next day? Or is it more like a week? Anyone have recent experience with this? I'm trying not to stress but it's hard when I've got rent due next week.
Great to hear your payment came through! For anyone else reading this thread in the future, here's a quick summary of what to expect with TWC payment timing: - First payments typically take 3-7 business days after the initial payment request - Subsequent payments are usually faster (2-3 business days) - Direct deposit is faster than debit card payments - Having a "clean" claim with no issues is key to getting paid quickly - Always keep your contact information updated in the TWC system - Make sure your work search requirements are being met and documented And remember to request payments on your assigned day to avoid further delays!
As someone who just went through this process a few weeks ago, I can confirm that the 3-7 day range is pretty accurate for first payments. Mine took 5 business days exactly. One thing I'd add is to make sure you're checking your TWC account daily during this waiting period - sometimes there are action items or documents they need that aren't immediately obvious. Also, if you're really stressed about timing, consider setting up text alerts through your bank so you know the moment the deposit hits. The uncertainty is definitely the worst part, but most people do get their payments within that first week if everything is properly submitted.
Lincoln Ramiro
After your hearing is resolved (hopefully in your favor), I recommend filing a formal complaint about receiving incorrect information. While it won't help your current situation, it might prevent others from experiencing the same problem. You can file a complaint. In the meantime, continue requesting payments (if you're able to) while your appeal is pending. If you win, you'll receive benefits for all eligible weeks you requested payment, even during the appeal process.
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Evelyn Kim
AuthorI didn't know I could still request payments during the appeal! Thank you - I'll start doing that today. And I'll definitely file a complaint regardless of the outcome.
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GalacticGuru
I'm so sorry you're dealing with this - it's incredibly frustrating when the system that's supposed to help you becomes an obstacle. I went through something similar last year where I was given conflicting information by different TWC agents about my eligibility requirements. A few things that helped me prepare for my continued hearing: 1. Create a timeline document showing exactly when you called, what you were told, and how you acted on that information 2. If you remember the agent's name or any reference numbers from your calls, include those 3. Print multiple copies of all your evidence - bring extras to the hearing in case they "lose" them again The fact that the hearing officer admitted to not reviewing your evidence beforehand is actually good for your case - that's a procedural error on their part. When the hearing resumes, politely but firmly state that you expect all submitted evidence to be reviewed before any decisions are made. Don't let them intimidate you. You followed the guidance you were given by their own representative - that's not fraud, that's reasonable reliance on official information. Stay organized, stay calm, and keep fighting for what you're entitled to.
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