Can I switch to TeleServ for just one TWC payment request if I normally use online?
So I'm in a bind this weekend - I normally handle all my unemployment stuff through the TWC website, but I'm going to be completely offline this Saturday and Sunday (camping trip). Sunday is my designated payment request day and I don't want to miss it. Has anyone used the TeleServ phone system as a one-off alternative? Can I just call in this one time, or do I need to be specifically set up for TeleServ? Will this mess up my future online payment requests? Really don't want to screw anything up with my benefits! Any advice would be super appreciated!
14 comments
Paolo Moretti
You're totally fine to use TeleServ just once! I switch back and forth between online and phone depending on what's convenient. Just make sure you have your TWC PIN handy (it's usually the last 4 digits of your SSN if you never changed it). The TeleServ number is 800-558-8321. The automated system will walk you through the same questions you answer online. I actually find the phone system easier sometimes because you just press buttons instead of clicking through all those screens.
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Keisha Jackson
•That's a HUGE relief - thank you! Do you know what hours TeleServ is available? I'd hate to call too late on Sunday and miss my request window.
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Amina Diop
Yes you can use either one anytime! They both connect to the same system.
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Oliver Weber
Just to expand on what others have said - TeleServ is available 7 days a week from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. And yes, you can absolutely switch between online and phone methods without any problems. The TWC system doesn't care which method you use to submit your payment request, as long as you do it on your designated day or during the allowed period (your designated day + the following 2 days). One tip though - TeleServ can get busy during peak hours (typically Monday mornings and Sunday evenings). Since you're camping, I'd suggest either calling first thing Sunday morning when the system opens at 7 AM or waiting until you get back if you'll be home before your request window closes. If you run into any issues with the automated system and need to speak to an actual TWC representative, that's where things get tricky. The phone lines are notoriously busy and you might get disconnected or face long wait times. Some people have had success using Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through the phone queue faster. They have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh. I've heard it helps if you absolutely need to talk to someone right away.
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Natasha Romanova
•yep exactly what they said! i just want to add that when i was using teleserv last month, it was WAY less busy early in the morning compared to evening. like zero wait time at 7am but when i tried at 5pm once i gave up after 20 minutes of waiting!
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NebulaNinja
I tried this once and the phone system kept hanging up on me!!!! I ended up having to drive to a mcdonalds to use their wifi to do my request online. The TWC system is SO BROKEN and they dont care at all about us. I would cancel your camping trip if I were you - not worth risking your benefits over!!!
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Paolo Moretti
•That sounds more like an issue with your phone connection or a temporary system problem. I've been using TeleServ for over a year with very few issues. There's absolutely no reason to cancel a camping trip - the payment request system allows for a 3-day window (your designated day plus two additional days).
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Javier Gomez
As someone who's worked with the TWC system extensively, I can confirm that you can freely alternate between TeleServ and online services. The TWC database doesn't differentiate between entry methods - both feed into the same system. Important things to remember about TeleServ: 1. Have your Social Security Number ready 2. Know your PIN (default is last 4 of SSN) 3. Be prepared to answer the same work search questions as online 4. Call during operating hours (7 AM-6 PM, 7 days a week) One thing to note: TeleServ doesn't provide the same detailed information as the online portal. If you need to check claim status details or submission confirmations, you'll still need to log in online when you return from your trip. The phone system will confirm your payment request was received, but won't give you the full dashboard view. Enjoy your camping trip!
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Keisha Jackson
•Thank you for the detailed info! This makes me feel much better about using TeleServ. Quick follow-up question - will I get any kind of confirmation number I should write down when using the phone system? Or is it enough to just follow the prompts to completion?
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Emma Wilson
when i first got laid off i did everything by phone cuz i didnt have internet at my apartment yet lol. then i switched to online when i got wifi. its all the same just different ways to do it. the phone thing is kinda annoying cuz u gotta listen to all the options but it works fine
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Javier Gomez
Yes, TeleServ will provide a confirmation number at the end of your payment request. Definitely write this down as proof that you completed your request. It's similar to the confirmation page you see online after submitting.
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Keisha Jackson
•Perfect! I'll make sure to have a pen and paper ready. You've all been super helpful - I feel much more confident about using TeleServ now. Thanks everyone!
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Natasha Romanova
i had this same situation last summer when i went to my sisters wedding!!! teleserv worked fine just remember your PIN!!! oh and dont hang up until you get the confirmation at the end!!
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Amina Diop
I actually prefer TeleServ now! Found it easier than clicking through all those website pages. You can actually request payment pretty quick once you get used to it.
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