Best time to call TWC after termination? Lost my PIN and desperate to file

same thing happend to me last month!!!! the lines are ALWAYS busy. i gave up trying to call and went to the workforce commission office near me in person. waited about 2hrs but they helped me reset everything. bring your ss card and id

The best time to call is right when they open at 8:00 AM. Don't wait until 8:01 - call exactly at 8:00. Also try calling on Wednesday or Thursday as those tend to be slightly less busy than Monday or Tuesday when everyone is trying to file their payment requests. You can also try to reset your PIN online through the TWC website. Go to ui.texasworkforce.org, click on "Forgot PIN" and you'll need to verify some personal information. If that doesn't work (sometimes the system makes you call anyway), then calling early is your best bet.

I was in the same situation last month and wasted 3 days trying to get through to TWC. Finally I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to an agent in about 20 minutes instead of waiting on hold forever. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh They basically keep dialing for you and then call you when they get through to an agent. Saved me a lot of stress since I also had a forgotten PIN and needed to get my claim started right away after being let go.

Here's some specific advice about resetting your PIN and the best times to call TWC: 1. If you're calling the main TWC number (800-939-6631), try calling at exactly 8:00 AM or between 4:00-4:30 PM. Those tend to be slightly better windows. 2. For PIN resets specifically, you can also call the Tele-Serv automated line at 800-558-8321. Select option 2 for PIN assistance. Sometimes this works without needing to speak to a representative. 3. Make sure you have your Social Security number, date of birth, and Texas driver's license or ID card ready when you call. 4. If you're getting terminated rather than laid off, be prepared that TWC will contact your employer about the reason for separation. If your employer claims misconduct, you might need to provide additional information during the application process. 5. While waiting to get your PIN reset, you can still start gathering documentation you'll need: your last employer's information (name, address, phone number), first and last day worked, and why you're no longer employed. The PIN reset is frustrating but once you get through it, the actual filing process is more straightforward.

I got fired back in January and the BEST advice I can give is don't say you were terminated!!! When you file say you were LAID OFF due to lack of work. If you say terminated TWC will delay your claim for weeks while they investigate. My neighbor works at TWC and told me this secret.

oh 4got to say they have a chat on the website 2. sometimes faster than calling!!

Just to update you on current work search requirements for when you do get your claim filed: Texas now requires 3 work search activities per week for regular unemployment benefits. Make sure you keep track of these - TWC can audit your work search activities at any time. Each week when you request payment, you'll need to certify that you've completed these 3 activities.

UPDATE: I GOT THROUGH! For anyone with the same problem, I tried the Claimyr service that someone mentioned below and it worked! Got connected to a TWC agent in about 15 minutes. They reset my PIN and I was able to file my initial claim right away. The agent said it usually takes about 21 days to process a new claim but could be faster. Such a relief to have this started finally!