One more thing - you can sign up for direct deposit to your regular bank account instead of using the ReliaCard. Many people find that's faster and more convenient. You can set it up in your TWC account under payment options.

That's really good to know! I'll definitely look into switching to direct deposit. The card was just what they automatically sent me.

my cousin works for twc and says theres a huge backlog of employer appeals right now so get your paperwork in asap and be super thorough the first time

Just to follow up on my earlier comment - since you mentioned these are seasonal workers you regularly rehire, you should specifically look into TWC's "Seasonal Employer" designation. There's an actual formal process to be designated as a seasonal employer (Form C-24), and it's different from just having workers you consider "seasonal". If you get this designation, benefits paid during your designated off-season won't affect your tax rate as much. But you must apply for this status before the claims happen, not retroactively, unfortunately. Also, for future reference, always respond to ALL claim notices, even if you're not contesting them. Simply saying "claim is valid, separation was due to lack of work" helps establish your responsiveness pattern with TWC.

Just to follow up - I just checked and it looks like TWC hasn't posted anything about recent flooding disaster unemployment yet. They usually send out a press release first, then update the website. You might want to sign up for their news alerts at https://www.twc.texas.gov/news to get notified as soon as they announce the DUA program for your disaster. The deadline to apply is usually 30 days after the announcement, so you don't want to miss it!

kinda off topic but make sure u do ur work search stuff even with disaster benefits they still made me do that

After checking the latest TWC disaster assistance guidelines, I want to correct my earlier information. The program is actually called Disaster Unemployment Assistance Extension (DUAE), not DEUC as I previously stated. You need to file within 30 days of the announcement of the extension program, not 30 days from the disaster itself. You'll need to call TWC directly and specifically ask for the DUAE application related to Hurricane Beryl. Be prepared to provide proof that your continued unemployment is directly related to Beryl damage.

Just to update everyone - TWC announced a Hurricane Beryl DUAE program last week that provides up to 13 additional weeks of benefits for those who have exhausted regular UI and remain unemployed due to Beryl. You must certify that your continued unemployment is directly related to Hurricane Beryl damage. Apply through your existing TWC account and select "Apply for Disaster Extension" from the main menu. The deadline to apply is April 15, 2025.

I just checked the TWC website and they're currently experiencing higher than normal call volumes due to system updates. That might explain why you're having trouble getting through AND why your account is having issues after ID.me verification. \n\nIf you absolutely can't get through on the phone and can't log in, you can also try emailing them through the contact form on the TWC website, or even reach out to your state representative's office - they often have direct lines to TWC staff for constituent services.

I had no idea about contacting my state rep! That's a great backup plan if I can't get through this week. Thank you!

Important clarification about tax refund intercepts: TWC has to certify the debt to the Treasury Offset Program, which doesn't happen immediately. Typically, they must send you multiple notices before your debt gets sent to TOP. Additionally, there's processing time involved. If you resolve the identity verification issue quickly (within 2-3 weeks), you can likely prevent the refund intercept. Call TWC's Benefit Overpayment collections department directly at 512-936-3338 rather than the general unemployment line - they can help with setting up payment plans or holds while you resolve the verification issue.

UPDATE: I finally got the ID.me verification to work! Used my roommate's laptop with better camera and made sure to have good lighting. Then I called that direct number for overpayments (512-936-3338) and after about an hour on hold, I got through to someone who was super helpful. They put a hold on my account and said they'll review it within 7-10 business days. They said if everything checks out with my identity, the overpayment should be removed from my account. Fingers crossed my tax refund will be safe! Thanks everyone for all your help!

The TWC system is DELIBERATELY CONFUSING!!! They don't explain any of this clearly because they WANT people to give up. I spent 9 months fighting with them last year after my benefits ran out early. Called every day for weeks and either got busy signals or disconnected after waiting for hours!! Complete joke of a system designed to frustrate people into giving up. Don't expect any real help from them.

Update: I finally got through to TWC! Used that Claimyr service someone suggested above and it actually worked - connected with an agent in about 30 minutes. They confirmed I don't qualify for any extensions right now, but they did tell me about some workforce development programs that might help. Also applying for some part-time gigs using that Earnings Disregard info to stretch my remaining benefits. Thanks everyone for the advice - feeling slightly less panicked now with a plan.

Just wanted to follow up - did you get your application submitted? One other thing I forgot to mention is that after you apply, you'll probably receive a call from TWC to verify some information. Make sure you answer calls from unknown numbers for a few days after you submit your application. If you miss their call, it can delay your claim processing.

Something nobody mentioned yet - if you can't get through on the regular TWC phone line (and you probably won't), try calling your local Workforce Solutions office instead. They can sometimes help with basic unemployment questions or at least give you better information about your claim status. I got way more help from my local office than from the main TWC number when I filed after being laid off from teaching position.

Another option to consider is visiting your local Workforce Solutions office in person. While they're separate from TWC, they often have direct communication channels with TWC representatives and can sometimes help resolve issues or at least get accurate information about what's holding up your claim. Bring your claim ID number and any correspondence you've received.

Most Workforce Solutions offices accept walk-ins, but it's always best to call ahead or check their website for the specific location's policy. Some have switched to appointment-only systems since COVID. When you go, make sure to bring ID and any relevant TWC correspondence. The more information you bring, the more likely they can help you.

Just to add some clarity here - a Claimant Contact Request is essentially TWC's way of saying they need additional information to process your claim correctly. The specific reason varies widely: 1. Work separation verification (most common) 2. Income verification 3. Identity verification follow-up 4. Work search activity verification 5. Availability for work questions 6. Clarification on something you reported on a payment request The important thing is to respond before the deadline. If you absolutely cannot get through on the phone, document your attempts (dates/times you called) and keep trying. In the worst case, this documentation can help if you need to appeal a decision later.

After seeing this post, I checked my account and found I have one of these requests too! I've been calling for the past hour with no luck. @OP, did you try the Claimyr service someone mentioned? I'm considering it since my deadline is this Friday.