Good idea! I'll transfer it to my regular bank account as soon as it hits. Definitely don't want to deal with extra fees.

Glad to hear it worked out @Drake! For anyone else reading this thread, here's a quick summary of what we learned: TWC typically takes 24-48 hours to process and show "posted" status, then the ReliaCard takes an additional 1-2 business days for funds to actually appear. So total time from payment request to available funds is usually 2-4 business days. The ReliaCard customer service can often see pending deposits before they show in your balance, so that's worth calling if you're worried. And definitely consider switching to direct deposit for faster access - just triple-check your banking info first!

Just to follow up on what others have said with some clarification about your options: 1. Request a payment plan (aim for 25% recoupment instead of 100%) 2. File an appeal within 14 days of notification (focus on lack of notice and non-fault overpayment) 3. Submit Form EO-48 for waiver consideration 4. Request Statement of Overpayment Account to verify amount The good news is that even though this is frustrating, you do have multiple options to pursue simultaneously. The most immediate relief will likely come from the payment plan, which can often be arranged quickly. The appeal and waiver process take longer but could potentially resolve the entire debt. Also, if you're struggling financially while this gets resolved, remember to check eligibility for other assistance programs like SNAP (food stamps) or emergency housing assistance through your county.

I went through something similar in 2022 - TWC hit me with an overpayment from 2016 that I had no clue about. Here's what worked for me: First, definitely call that overpayment department number someone posted (512-936-3338) but call RIGHT when they open at 8am - that's your best shot at getting through. When you talk to them, use the exact phrase "financial hardship" multiple times and ask for the lowest possible recoupment percentage. Second, I discovered that TWC has an "Overpayment Collections Manual" that outlines their policies - you can request a copy under the Texas Public Information Act. It helped me understand what arguments actually work with them. Third, if you do file an appeal, include a sworn affidavit stating you never received proper notice at your current address. The burden is on them to prove they properly notified you, and "we sent it to your 2011 address" isn't proper notice if you moved and they had no forwarding info. One more thing - document EVERYTHING with dates and names. I kept a log of every call, every person I spoke with, and what they told me. It saved me when different agents gave me conflicting information. Hang in there - it's a frustrating process but you do have options!

After you speak with a representative, make sure to document everything - the date and time of your call, the name of the person you spoke with, and what they told you. This can be crucial if you need to follow up or if there are further delays. Also, if they tell you they're escalating your issue or sending it to a specific department, ask for a reference number for that case. This can help you track it if you need to call back. One more tip: After this gets resolved, continue filing your payment requests on time, even if there's an ongoing issue. Missing a payment request period can cause even more complications.

I had a similar issue last year - turned out there was a "flag" on my account because my previous employer submitted some paperwork late that contradicted my original claim info. Even though I was initially approved, it triggered a manual review that took forever. The frustrating part is they don't tell you this is happening! I only found out when I finally got through to someone after 4 weeks of calling. My advice: if you do get through, specifically ask if there are any "pending issues" or "flags" on your account that need to be resolved. Sometimes the reps can see things in their system that don't show up on your online portal. Also, if your employer is a large company, they might use a third-party service to handle unemployment claims which can cause weird delays. Good luck - I know how stressful this is when you're counting on that money!

my roommate requests on wednesday too and always gets it friday except one time they skipped a week and he had to call and turns out he answered something wrong on the payment request form so just double check ur answers

Just wanted to add that if you're really tight on timing, you can also set up text alerts through the ReliaCard website to get notified the moment your deposit hits. I was in a similar situation a few months ago where I needed to know ASAP when the money was available. The alerts come through pretty quickly - usually within an hour of the deposit posting. Better than constantly checking your balance and stressing out! You can set it up in the notifications section of your ReliaCard account.

UPDATE: I just finished my appeal hearing and I think it went well! The hearing officer was actually really nice and let me fully explain the transportation situation. She seemed to understand that there was a miscommunication in my initial interview. She asked for details about my job search activities and seemed impressed that I'm applying to 5+ jobs weekly and have had interviews. I stayed calm (mostly!) and had all my documentation ready like you all suggested. She said I should receive a written decision within 7-10 days. Fingers crossed!!! Thank you everyone for your advice and support - it really helped me prepare and feel less anxious!

Congratulations on getting through the hearing! It really does sound like it went well based on your description. The fact that the hearing officer took the time to let you fully explain the situation and seemed engaged with your job search documentation is definitely encouraging. I went through a similar appeal about 6 months ago (also for an availability misunderstanding) and had a very similar experience - the hearing officer was patient, asked detailed questions, and seemed to "get it" that there had been miscommunication during the initial interview. I won my appeal and received all my back payments about 2 weeks after getting the decision letter. The waiting period is nerve-wracking, but try to stay positive. You were well-prepared, had solid documentation, and clearly explained your situation. That's really all you can do. Definitely keep doing your payment requests like others mentioned - when the decision comes through in your favor, you'll want those weeks processed quickly! Wishing you the best outcome! 🤞