I'm really sorry you're going through this stress - I know how terrifying it feels when your safety net is about to disappear. I went through the exact same thing about 4 months ago and the panic was overwhelming. Unfortunately, what everyone has said is correct - there are no automatic extensions available in Texas right now like there were during COVID. Those federal programs (PEUC, PUA, etc.) ended years ago, and state Extended Benefits only kick in when unemployment rates reach certain thresholds, which hasn't happened recently. However, I want to echo what others have said about not giving up hope. The Workforce Solutions office really can be a game-changer. When I was in your shoes, I discovered they had a healthcare certification program that included a weekly stipend. It wasn't as much as my UI benefits, but it covered my basic expenses while I got trained in a field that actually had job openings. A couple of things that helped me: 1. I applied for emergency rental assistance through my county's Community Action Agency while waiting for the training program to start 2. I picked up some gig work (Instacart) during my last few weeks of UI, which helped stretch those benefits a little longer 3. The training program I entered had partnerships with local employers who were specifically looking to hire their graduates Your situation with 3 interviews is actually really encouraging - that shows employers are interested in you. Sometimes the hiring process just takes longer than we'd like, especially these days. Keep us posted on how your Workforce appointment goes tomorrow. You're handling this the right way by being proactive and seeking out information. You're going to get through this!

I've been following this entire discussion and I'm so impressed by how supportive and informative this community has been! As someone who recently went through UI exhaustion myself, I can really relate to that overwhelming feeling when you're facing the end of your benefits. I wanted to add one more resource that helped me during my transition: many local credit unions have emergency loan programs specifically for people between jobs. The one I used had a very low interest rate and flexible repayment terms that were much better than payday loans or credit cards. It helped me cover rent for a month while I was getting into a training program. Also, I noticed several people mentioned keeping documentation of job search activities - this is SO important! When I went to my Workforce appointment, having detailed records of every application and interview not only qualified me for priority services but also helped them match me with employers who were specifically looking for someone with my background. @Ethan Moore - you're clearly doing everything right by staying proactive and reaching out for help. That interview momentum you have is really promising, and combined with the Workforce programs, you're setting yourself up for success. The fact that you found this community and asked for help shows exactly the kind of resourcefulness that's going to get you through this transition. Looking forward to hearing how your appointment goes tomorrow - this thread has become such a valuable resource for anyone facing UI exhaustion!

Great update @Nia Davis! I'm glad Claimyr worked for you and you finally got some real answers from TWC. That Short-Term Training program sounds like a solid option - especially if they can fast-track you through medical coding certification. One thing I'd add is to check if your local community college has any quick certification programs too. Sometimes they partner with TWC for funding. Also, since you mentioned the medical billing market is saturated, have you considered looking at related fields like insurance claims processing or healthcare administration? Your billing background would be a huge asset there and those roles often pay similar or better. Keep us posted on how that second interview goes next week - fingers crossed for you!

Hey Nia, I'm really glad to see your update about getting through to TWC and getting some concrete next steps! That Short-Term Training program could be a game-changer. I went through something similar last year (different industry) and those quick certifications really do make a difference on applications. Since you mentioned medical billing is saturated, I wanted to throw out another idea - have you looked into revenue cycle management positions? It's kind of the next level up from billing and uses all your existing skills but pays better. A lot of hospitals and larger practices are hiring for those roles right now. Also, for what it's worth, that second interview next week is huge! The fact that they called you back means you're a strong candidate. Even if this specific role doesn't work out, it's good practice and shows your skills are marketable. You're handling this whole situation really well considering how stressful it must be. Keep pushing through - you've got this!

I'm dealing with the exact same situation right now! Got approved last week and have been anxiously checking my mailbox every day for the ReliaCard. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been so helpful - especially knowing that the card comes in a plain white envelope and that I can check the balance online before the physical card arrives. One question for those who've been through this - after you activate the card and see your balance, how long does it typically take for the funds to actually be available for use? I'm worried there might be some kind of additional hold period even after activation. Hannah, thanks for starting this thread and keeping us updated on your progress! It's really reassuring to see that you got confirmation from TWC. Fingers crossed both our cards arrive soon!

This whole thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm actually in week 2 of waiting for my ReliaCard after getting approved, and reading everyone's experiences has really eased my anxiety. The tip about checking reliacard.com with your SSN before the physical card arrives is genius - I had no idea that was even possible! For anyone else going through this, I wanted to add that if you're really struggling financially while waiting, some utility companies also offer emergency payment extensions if you can show proof of pending unemployment benefits. I called my electric company and they gave me an extra 2 weeks when I explained the situation and sent them a screenshot of my TWC approval. Hannah, so glad you got through to someone at TWC! That 8am calling strategy definitely seems to be the way to go. Thanks for keeping us all updated - it really helps to know we're not alone in dealing with this frustrating but temporary situation.

Smart plan! One additional tip - when you're documenting everything, also keep records of your job search efforts even while you're working the 1099 contract. If the startup does fold and you need to file for unemployment, having a history of networking and staying connected to the job market can help demonstrate that you remained engaged with traditional employment opportunities, not just freelancing. This can counter any argument that you "abandoned" W2 work permanently. Good luck with the startup - sounds like you're going in with your eyes wide open!

I've been through this exact situation in Texas and wanted to add one more crucial piece of advice: when you negotiate your 1099 contract, try to get language that specifically states you're an "independent contractor" rather than "self-employed" and that the contract can be terminated by either party with notice. This distinction can actually matter to TWC. Also, if possible, see if the startup will agree to provide a written statement about why the contract ended if funding runs out - something like "contract terminated due to business closure/lack of funding" rather than just letting it expire. I know it sounds awkward to negotiate termination language upfront, but having that documentation ready can save you months of appeals later. The other thing I learned the hard way - don't wait to file your claim if the contract does end. File immediately while the circumstances are fresh and you have all your documentation together. The longer you wait, the more questions TWC will have about the gap in your work history. Best of luck with the startup opportunity!

I went through this same nightmare about 3 months ago and it's absolutely maddening! What worked for me was calling US Bank ReliaCard multiple times throughout the day - I know it sounds crazy but different reps sometimes have different capabilities or willingness to help. One rep finally admitted they could put a "rush request" on my account even though my card had already been mailed, which somehow helped it arrive 2 days later instead of the full week they originally quoted. Also, if you have any friends or family who could spot you money for immediate bills, you could have them Venmo/Zelle you cash and then pay them back once your card arrives and you can access your funds. I had to swallow my pride and ask my brother for help, but it saved me from late fees on my car payment. The whole system is broken and puts people in impossible situations, but don't give up on calling US Bank - sometimes persistence pays off with getting a more helpful representative!

I've been dealing with Texas unemployment for over a year now due to multiple job transitions, and I've learned a few tricks that might help speed things up. First, if you haven't already, try creating an account on the ReliaCard website (goprogram.com) - sometimes you can see if your card has been issued and get an estimated delivery date even before it arrives. Second, I've had luck calling US Bank's ReliaCard line super early (like 6:30 AM) or late in the evening when call volumes are lower. Finally, here's something most people don't know - if you're facing a true financial emergency (like eviction notice, utility shutoff, etc.), you can actually request an emergency payment voucher through TWC that allows you to pick up a check at certain locations. It's not widely advertised and requires documentation, but it exists for severe hardship cases. You'd need to call TWC and specifically ask about "emergency payment options" - most reps don't know about it unless you use those exact words. Hope this helps and your card arrives soon!