One final suggestion - when you attend the hearing, keep your answers brief and directly responsive to the questions asked. Don't volunteer extra information unless specifically asked. The hearing officer is looking for clear facts related to eligibility requirements, not a detailed narrative. And be sure to mention those emails showing your position was eliminated - that's strong evidence for your case. Good luck!

I went through a similar situation last year - appeal hearing scheduled 13 months after I filed! The frustrating part is that by the time they finally schedule these hearings, people have often moved on and found new jobs, which is probably what they're counting on. But definitely don't skip it! I almost didn't go because I thought "what's the point" but ended up getting $4,200 in back benefits. The hearing itself was only about 20 minutes by phone. Just make sure you have all your original documentation ready - they'll ask about the specific circumstances of your job separation and want to see any proof you have. The delay doesn't affect your eligibility for the original claim period at all.

UPDATE: I finally got through!! I used that Claimyr service that someone mentioned above. Got a callback with a TWC agent in about 1.5 hours. Found out the issue was that my previous employer contested my reason for separation (claimed I quit when I was actually laid off). The agent helped me submit the right documentation and said my payments should process within 3-5 business days. Honestly worth it after wasting days trying to call myself. Wish the regular phone system wasn't such a disaster though!

Congrats on finally getting through! Your situation is exactly why I tell everyone to document EVERYTHING when they get laid off. Always get that separation paperwork in writing if possible. Employers contest claims all the time to keep their unemployment insurance rates down - it's basically free for them to dispute it and hope you give up. Glad the agent was able to help you submit the right docs. Definitely keep checking that correspondence inbox like AstroAce said - you'll want to see that determination letter to make sure everything's officially resolved in your favor.

ok so Im gonna share what happened to my cousin who had literally THE SAME SITUATION!! he missed like 6 payment requests during his appeal cuz he didnt know better. when he finally won his appeal (took like 2 months btw) he called TWC right away and explained that he didnt request payments cuz he thought he couldn't while denied. they let him backdate THREE of the missed requests but said it was a "one-time courtesy" or whatever. so basically he got half of what he shouldve gotten. better than nothing but still super frustrating. good luck!!

Just wanted to add another perspective here - I'm a former TWC claims examiner (worked there for 3 years until 2023). The payment request requirement during appeals is definitely confusing and trips up a lot of people. Here's what I can tell you from the inside: 1. The "backdating" process @Luca Ferrari mentioned is real, but it's not automatic. You'll need to specifically request it and provide a good reason why you didn't request payments initially. 2. When you call, ask to speak with a "claims specialist" rather than just general customer service. They have more authority to make adjustments to your account. 3. Document EVERYTHING - dates you tried calling, who you spoke with, reference numbers from calls, etc. This creates a paper trail that can help your case. 4. The hearing officer for your appeal actually has some discretion here too. If you explain the situation during your hearing and show you've been actively trying to resolve it, many will make a note in their decision that could help with backdating. The system is frustrating, but don't give up. I've seen plenty of cases where people in your exact situation got at least partial relief. The key is being persistent and documenting your efforts to fix the mistake once you realized it.

I tried Claimyr (claimyr.com) last month when I had a similar issue with my TWC claim, and they got me through to a live person pretty quickly. Worth checking out if you're still struggling to reach someone. The agent I talked to explained that in Texas, you need to report self-employment on your initial claim because it affects your base period calculations. The good news is that they can add it retroactively.

Just to clarify some confusion I'm seeing in the comments: TWC treats self-employment differently than regular W-2 employment when calculating your initial benefit amount. Self-employment income typically doesn't count toward your base period wages that determine your weekly benefit amount (WBA), but you still must report any current self-employment earnings during your payment requests. However, it's crucial to disclose all types of work on your initial application for accuracy. Then during each payment request, report all earnings before taxes for that week. If your weekly DoorDash earnings are less than your WBA, you'll receive partial benefits equal to your WBA minus a portion of your earnings.

As an authoritative comment on your situation, it is understandable to feel frustrated with technical issues, especially under tight deadlines. While clearing your cache or using a different browser can solve minor issues, systemic issues may require alternative approaches. Claimyr, as mentioned, indeed offers a viable solution for those struggling to get in touch with live agents, though it comes at a cost. It's successful for many, yet not a universal fix due to its financial aspect. Contacting your local representatives and visiting the unemployment office in person are commendable routes, often leading to direct assistance. However, these also demand time and patience. Checking social media for updates is a proactive approach, as agencies might post real-time information there. Ultimately, exhausting all these methods increases your chances of a successful claim. Consider balancing these options according to your convenience and urgency, but do not hesitate to utilize every resource at your disposal.

I went through this exact same nightmare last year! Here's what finally worked for me: First, try using incognito/private browsing mode - sometimes saved login data gets corrupted. If that doesn't work, try accessing the site from your phone instead of computer (or vice versa). The mobile version sometimes works when desktop doesn't. Also, screenshot every error message you get - this helps when you call them. If all else fails, you can also try faxing your documents directly to TWC. I know it sounds old school, but when I was stuck, their fax line was actually more reliable than their website. The number should be on their contact page. Don't give up - you've got this! 💪