Can I get Texas unemployment while caring for my terminally ill infant? Left job due to pregnancy complications

I'm so sorry about your son. Unfortunately, TWC unemployment is generally for people who are able and available to work but lost their job through no fault of their own. Since you voluntarily left your job (even for completely understandable reasons) and aren't currently able to accept full-time work, you probably wouldn't qualify for regular unemployment benefits. Have you looked into FMLA protection or short-term disability through your previous employer?

im so sorry ur going thru this!! my cousin had something similar. have u checked into temporary disability benefits? not the same as unemployment but might help

The previous commenter is correct. To qualify for Texas unemployment, you need to be able and available to work full-time, actively searching for work (minimum 3 work search activities per week), and have lost your job through no fault of your own. Leaving for medical/pregnancy reasons is typically considered a voluntary quit, though there are some exceptions if your employer failed to accommodate medically necessary restrictions. However, instead of TWC, I'd recommend looking into these options: 1. Contact Texas Health and Human Services about TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) 2. Check if you qualify for SSDI benefits as your child's caregiver 3. See if your county has any emergency assistance programs 4. Reach out to local non-profits that specialize in supporting families with medically complex children These might be better paths for your situation than unemployment.

This makes me SO ANGRY!!! The system is completely broken when parents of critically ill children are left without support. You shouldn't have to choose between caring for your dying child and paying bills!!! I had to fight TWC for months when I had a legitimate claim - can't imagine what you're going through. The whole unemployment system is designed to exclude people who need help the most.

Have you contacted your state representative? Sometimes they can help navigate the system or know of other resources. I went through something (not nearly as difficult as yours) and their constituent services helped me find programs I didn't know existed. Worth a shot.

Sorry about your situation with your little one, truly heartbreaking. Not exactly what you asked, but have you checked with local Ronald McDonald House or children's hospitals? They often have special grants or emergency funds for families in your exact situation. My sister accessed some help that way when my nephew was seriously ill.

I was in a somewhat similar situation last year (though not as serious - wishing your little one comfort). While trying to sort out benefits, I kept hitting dead ends with TWC and couldn't reach anyone to discuss my unique circumstances. I finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to a TWC representative within 20 minutes after I'd been trying for weeks. There's a demo video of how it works at https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh. Even though I wasn't eligible for unemployment, the rep was able to point me toward other programs I actually did qualify for. Might be worth a try to get definitive answers about your options.

One more thing I forgot to mention - even though unemployment likely isn't an option, definitely look into the Family and Medical Leave Protections through the Texas Workforce Commission. There's a special unit that deals with these situations and might be able to direct you to appropriate resources. Their main line is often busy, but if you call right when they open at 8:00 AM, you might have better luck getting through to someone who can help.

I just wanted to follow up - did you have any luck with the suggestions here? The TANF option seems like it might be your best bet in the immediate term. Sending positive thoughts to you and your little one.

I'm so sorry you're going through this heartbreaking situation with your son. While others have covered the unemployment eligibility well, I wanted to mention a few additional resources that might help: 1) Check if your county has a Special Needs Alliance or similar organization - they often have emergency financial assistance specifically for families with medically complex children. 2) Contact United Way by dialing 211 - they maintain a comprehensive database of local assistance programs and can often connect you with resources you might not find otherwise. 3) Some utility companies have hardship programs that can reduce your monthly bills, which frees up money for other expenses. Also, don't overlook applying for WIC if you haven't already - even though your son has special dietary needs, they may be able to help with approved formula or foods. Hang in there, and please keep us updated on how things go with TANF and the other suggestions.

Harper, my heart goes out to you and your precious little one. While I don't have additional resources to add beyond what others have shared, I wanted to mention that some churches and faith-based organizations (regardless of your religious affiliation) often have emergency assistance funds specifically for medical crises like yours. Many don't require you to be a member and can sometimes provide one-time help with utilities, groceries, or medical expenses. Also, if your son receives any services through Early Childhood Intervention (ECI), the case workers there are often fantastic at connecting families with lesser-known assistance programs. They work with families in similar situations regularly and may know of grants or support services that aren't widely advertised. You're doing an incredible job caring for your son during an unimaginably difficult time.