Just wanted to follow up - how did your call with TWC go? Were you able to get through and explain the separation issue?

That's great news that you got through and the agent was helpful! I'm glad you were able to get your side of the story documented. Mass layoffs like yours should be pretty straightforward to verify - TWC can usually see patterns when multiple people from the same company file claims around the same time. Hopefully they'll approve it quickly and you'll get all your back pay too. Keep us updated on how it goes!

I'm really sorry you're dealing with this frustrating situation. What you're describing unfortunately happens more often than it should, but the good news is that you have a strong case based on what you've shared. A few additional thoughts that might help: 1. When your hearing resumes, consider opening with a brief statement about procedural fairness - something like "Before we begin, I need to confirm that all evidence I submitted has been reviewed, as this is essential for a fair hearing." 2. Document everything about this current hearing experience too - the officer's admission that she hadn't reviewed your evidence, her unprofessional attitude, etc. This could be relevant if you need to appeal further. 3. If you have any written confirmation emails or reference numbers from your calls with TWC, those can be powerful evidence even without recordings. The legal concept others mentioned - "detrimental reliance" - is exactly right for your situation. You reasonably relied on official information from a government representative, and you were harmed as a result of following that incorrect guidance. Stay strong and don't let them make you feel like you did anything wrong. You went above and beyond to ensure compliance by calling multiple times and following their guidance exactly. That shows good faith, not an attempt to defraud the system. Keep us updated on how it goes! Many people here are rooting for you.

I'm dealing with a very similar situation right now and this thread has been incredibly helpful! I had my initial hearing last week where the officer barely looked at my evidence and seemed to have already made up their mind before we even started. What really struck me about your situation is how you went above and beyond to get clarification by calling SIX times - that shows incredible good faith effort on your part. The fact that you're being treated like you're trying to defraud the system when you were literally trying to follow their rules correctly is just mind-boggling. I wanted to share one additional resource that helped me - the Texas Department of Labor website has a section on "procedural due process" that outlines your rights during appeal hearings. It specifically states that all submitted evidence must be considered and that hearing officers should maintain professional conduct. You might want to reference this if you encounter similar issues in your continuation hearing. Also, I've found it helpful to practice stating my case out loud beforehand. It sounds silly, but when you're nervous or frustrated during the actual hearing, having practiced your key points helps you stay focused and professional. Don't let them wear you down - what happened to you with the incorrect agent guidance is a legitimate basis for appeal, and you have every right to expect your evidence to be properly reviewed. Rooting for you!

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! It's so frustrating when you're already dealing with unemployment stress and then the system itself becomes another barrier. I've been trying for about a week too and getting nowhere. Reading all these comments is giving me hope though - sounds like persistence and timing are key. I'm definitely going to try the early morning calling strategy that everyone's recommending. Has anyone had success with the online chat feature, or is calling really the only way? Also wondering if there are certain days of the week that are better than others for getting through. Thanks for starting this thread - it's reassuring to know we're all in this together! 🙏

I'm dealing with this exact same issue right now! Been trying to reset my PIN for almost two weeks and it's driving me crazy. The system keeps timing out whenever I try to do anything online, and getting through on the phone feels impossible. I've tried calling at different times of day but always get that busy signal or end up in an endless hold loop. Reading through all these comments is actually really helpful though - I had no idea so many other people were struggling with the same thing. Definitely going to try the early morning calling strategy that everyone's recommending. It's ridiculous that we have to become experts at gaming the phone system just to access benefits we've paid into, but I guess that's the reality. Thanks for posting this - sometimes just knowing you're not alone in the struggle makes a huge difference! 🤞

Update: I FINALLY got through to TWC today! The rep confirmed what several of you said - my UCX claim is approved but they're waiting for DoD to verify my military wages. She said this is taking longer because of the holidays and they're backed up, but I should see payment in the next 7-10 business days. She also added a note to expedite my claim. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!

Congratulations on getting through to TWC! That's a huge relief. I'm a veteran myself and went through something similar when I transitioned out. One thing I'd add - if you haven't already, make sure you're registered with your local workforce center and consider reaching out to a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) in your area. They often have staff who understand the UCX system and can advocate for you if you run into any more issues. The American Legion and VFW both have people who deal with this stuff regularly. Also, once you start receiving payments, keep detailed records of everything - TWC has been known to have "computer glitches" that can mess up ongoing claims. Best of luck with your transition to civilian life!

Sorry to hear about your layoff - that's always tough, especially with no warning. Just wanted to add a few practical tips that helped me when I went through this last year: 1. Apply for unemployment the same day if possible - don't wait! Every day you delay pushes back your potential start date. 2. For semi-monthly pay, they'll look at your total quarterly earnings, so gather your last few paystubs to have those numbers ready. 3. While waiting for approval, consider reaching out to local food banks or community assistance programs if money gets tight - there's no shame in getting help during a transition. 4. Start your job search immediately even before benefits kick in. The work search requirements are real, and having a head start helps both with compliance and potentially finding work faster. 5. If you have any severance pay, be aware that it might affect when your benefits start - TWC has specific rules about this. The 3-4 week timeline others mentioned is pretty accurate in my experience. Hang in there - this phase won't last forever, and you'll come out stronger on the other side!

I went through a similar situation about 6 months ago when my company did "workforce optimization" (another fancy term for layoffs). Here's what I learned that might help: **Immediate action items:** - File your claim TODAY if possible - the sooner you file, the sooner your waiting period starts - Have your Social Security card, driver's license, and last paystub ready when you apply - Write down your exact termination date and reason (you'll need this multiple times) **Semi-monthly pay specifics:** - TWC will calculate your quarterly wages automatically from employer records - They typically use your highest earning quarter from the "base period" (first 4 of last 5 completed quarters) - Your weekly benefit will be roughly your quarterly high divided by 25, up to the $694 max **Timeline reality check:** - Initial claim filing: 30-45 minutes online - Determination letter: 10-14 days if straightforward - First payment: 2-4 weeks total from filing (if no complications) - You'll get backpay for eligible weeks once approved **Money management tip:** Contact your utility companies, credit card companies, and landlord NOW to explain your situation. Many have hardship programs or will work with you on payment plans if you're proactive rather than reactive. The stress is real, but you're taking the right steps by getting informed. This community has been incredibly helpful for navigating the process!