Another tip regarding your first payment - if you've selected direct deposit, make sure your banking information is entered correctly. If there's any error, it will default to a TWC debit card which can take an additional 7-10 days to arrive by mail. Double-check your direct deposit details in your TWC account to avoid delays with that first lump sum payment.

Just wanted to add from my recent experience - when you do get that first big payment, don't forget that taxes aren't automatically withheld unless you specifically request it during your application. I learned this the hard way when I got a big tax bill the following year. You can choose to have 10% federal tax withheld from each payment, or handle it yourself, but definitely plan for it either way. The last thing you want is to spend that whole first payment and then owe the IRS later!

My brother in law got partial unemplyment for 6 months when he lost his welding job but kept working at his uncles shop part time. Hes fine never had to pay anything back. you worry too much lol

I'm in almost the exact same situation! Lost my full-time warehouse job but still have my weekend cashier position. I was terrified to file because I thought having ANY job would disqualify me, but reading everyone's responses here is so reassuring. I've been putting off filing for two weeks because I was scared of getting in trouble later. Sounds like as long as I'm honest about my part-time earnings, I should be okay to apply. Thanks for posting this question - you probably helped a lot of people who were in the same boat!

Let us know how it goes next week!

Just wanted to add something important - if they do accept your good cause for the late appeal, don't celebrate too early during the hearing! I made that mistake and got a little too relaxed when they moved on to my actual case. Stay focused because the separation issue is just as important. Also, if your employer doesn't show up to the hearing (which happens sometimes), that actually works in your favor. They won't be there to argue their side about you supposedly quitting. But don't count on it - assume they'll be there and be prepared with all your evidence about the layoff. One last thing - write down key points you want to make beforehand so you don't forget anything important when you're nervous. Good luck Omar, sounds like you have solid documentation for both the late appeal and the actual case!

Update to my earlier comment: I just checked TWC's official documentation. If you missed payment requests because the system didn't allow you to request them (as opposed to simply forgetting), you can file for what's called "backdated payment requests" after winning your appeal. You'll need to explain that the system didn't provide the option. Don't wait though - call them now to document your situation and get proper guidance for your specific case.

I'm going through something similar right now - filed my appeal two weeks ago and just realized I haven't been requesting payments because the option disappeared from my account too! This thread is a lifesaver. I had no idea we were supposed to keep requesting during appeals. Called Tele-Serv this morning after reading these comments and was able to submit my request for this week. For anyone else in this situation, the Tele-Serv number (800-558-8321) does work even when your online account doesn't show the payment request option. Just have your SSN and PIN ready. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences here - this could have cost me weeks of benefits!

Anybody else think its ridiculous we gotta jump through all these hoops just to get what we're entitled to? The system is rigged against us, I swear.

Edison, I feel your pain - I went through this same nightmare a few months ago. Here's what worked for me: First, don't panic. Most denials can be fixed if you know what you're doing. Check your online TWC account for any determination letters - they're usually posted there first. The most common reasons are insufficient work history, being fired "for cause," or not being available for work. Once you know the specific reason, you can build your appeal case. I ended up winning my appeal because I had documentation proving my termination was wrongful. The key is acting fast - you only have 14 days from the date of the determination to file an appeal. Don't let that deadline pass! Also, start documenting your job search activities immediately if you haven't already. Good luck, and don't give up!