This is exactly what I needed to see! I'm currently in week 4 of a part-time job (about 22 hours/week) while on partial unemployment, and I've been wondering when/if my waiting week would get paid. My weekly benefit amount is $420, so I'd need to earn $2,520 total to hit that 6x threshold. Based on my hours and hourly rate, I'm probably just a week or two away from reaching that amount. It's such a relief to know this is completely automatic and normal. I was actually dreading having to call TWC to ask about it, especially after reading all the horror stories about their phone system. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences - this community is so helpful for navigating all the confusing parts of the unemployment system!

This thread has been incredibly helpful! I'm in a very similar situation - started a part-time job about 6 weeks ago while on unemployment and was completely confused when TWC automatically paid my waiting week last week. I had no idea this was even a thing and was worried I'd somehow triggered an overpayment or done something wrong in the system. Reading through everyone's experiences here makes so much sense now. My weekly benefit amount is $395, so I needed to earn about $2,370 total to hit that 6x threshold. With my part-time schedule over the past 6 weeks, I definitely crossed that line. It's amazing how the system actually tracks this automatically - I was expecting to have to jump through hoops or fill out special forms. For anyone else in this situation, just keep accurately reporting your hours and wages like everyone said. The TWC computer system handles all the calculations behind the scenes. Thanks to everyone who shared their stories - it really helps to know this is normal!

Does anyone know if they ever call with the decision or is it always by mail/online? I'm in a similar situation waiting on an appeal decision and jumping every time my phone rings lol

Just wanted to add that the hearing officer calling out your employer's lies is actually HUGE! I've been to three different TWC hearings over the years (unfortunately had some bad luck with employers) and the officers are usually very neutral and professional. For them to actively challenge your employer's statements means they clearly spotted inconsistencies or outright falsehoods. Combined with your text message evidence and witness testimony, this sounds like a really strong case. I know the waiting is torture, but try to stay positive - everything you've described points to a favorable outcome. And definitely get those payment requests caught up ASAP like others mentioned!

To summarize what everyone has said: 1. Railroad workers file ONLY with the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), not with TWC 2. RRB benefits are typically higher than TWC benefits 3. For the "mutual termination" issue - if he was given the choice to quit or be fired, that's generally considered a discharge, not a voluntary quit 4. Document everything about the separation, especially if safety concerns were involved 5. Be prepared for long wait times when contacting the RRB The RRB website has forms and instructions at rrb.gov - I suggest starting there and then calling them if you have questions.

Just wanted to add - when filing with RRB, make sure your husband has his Social Security number, railroad service records, and any documentation about his last day of work ready. The RRB application asks for specific details about his railroad employment history and the reason for separation. Also, if he worked for multiple railroad companies during his career, he'll need to provide information about all of them. The RRB considers all creditable railroad service when determining benefit amounts. Good luck with the process!

For your planning purposes, here's exactly what will happen with your final payment: 1. You'll receive your regular weekly benefit amount ($754 after taxes) one last time 2. Your claim will then show as exhausted 3. If you're still unemployed, you should immediately file for EB (Extended Benefits) if they're currently available in Texas 4. Remember to continue your work search activities (minimum 3 per week) even during the transition Don't forget that once you do find employment, you need to work for 6 consecutive weeks and then specifically request the waiting week payment. Mark your calendar with a reminder as many people forget this step.

Just wanted to add that you should also check if you qualify for any federal extension programs that might be available. Sometimes there are additional weeks of benefits beyond regular unemployment and EB, depending on economic conditions. Also, if you're considering any job training programs, some of them can extend your benefit period while you're enrolled. Worth looking into TWC's workforce development programs - they sometimes have partnerships that can help bridge the gap between when your benefits end and when you find steady work.