Can I apply for TWC benefit extension after exhausting regular UI benefits?

Unfortunately, Texas currently doesn't offer any automatic extensions once you've exhausted your regular UI benefits. During COVID they had extended benefits programs, but those ended years ago. The only option now would be if you qualify for a new benefit year based on work you've done since filing your original claim. You need enough qualifying wages in your base period to establish a new claim. If you haven't worked since starting your original claim, you likely won't qualify for a new one.

same boat last year. ran out and nothing else available. TWC told me to apply for TANF and SNAP benefits instead. better start applying EVERYWHERE even places u dont want to work

The TWC system is RIDICULOUS about this!!! They don't clearly explain ANYWHERE that once your benefits run out, THAT'S IT! I called like 50 times trying to find out if there were extensions when mine ran out last year. Finally got someone who basically laughed and said "what do you think this is, 2021?" SO RUDE. The pandemic extensions spoiled everyone and now they act like we're stupid for asking!!!!

While regular extensions aren't available anymore, you should check if you might qualify for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) if your job loss was due to foreign trade impact. It's not common but worth checking. Also, make sure you're registered with WorkInTexas.com and visit your local Workforce Solutions office - they sometimes have emergency assistance programs or specialized training opportunities that don't show up on the main TWC site. Don't give up on reaching TWC though - sometimes different agents give different information about specialized programs.

When my benefits ran out, I couldn't get a straight answer from TWC for weeks. Always busy signals or disconnects. I finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to an agent who explained all my options. Nothing beats talking to an actual person at TWC who can see your specific claim details. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh The agent confirmed no standard extensions exist now, but she did tell me about some training programs that extended partial benefits in specific situations. Worth asking specifically about the "Training Benefits Program" - they don't advertise it well.

my cousin just went thru this and he said the key is applying for EVERYTHING - unemployment, snap, utility assistance, rental help, food banks, everything u can find. its not just one program that helps.

One more thing to consider - make sure you file your final payment request even after your benefits balance shows $0. Sometimes there are small adjustments that can result in one final partial payment. Also, double check that you've claimed for all eligible weeks - I've seen people who thought they were exhausted but had actually missed requesting payment for an eligible week or two.

just wondering did u do all ur work searches every week? sometimes they put holds on accounts for missed work searches and it looks like benefits ended but really they just stopped paying u

this happened to me to!!! its so unfair they dont explain this stuff when u first apply!! i was counting on having unemployment for 6 months but mine ran out at 16 weeks because my benefit amount was higher so it used up the total faster. nobody explained that could happen!!! i hate the whole system.

Since you're near the end of your benefits, make sure you request a statement of benefits paid for your tax records. You can do this through your TWC account. Also, even though extensions aren't available, continue checking your correspondence inbox on the TWC portal weekly. Sometimes there are updates about temporary programs or specialized assistance that might apply to your situation. The system isn't always great about sending email notifications for these opportunities.