First-time TWC application for elderly parent - website vs phone?

Definitely use the website! The phone system is absolutely swamped and you'll waste days trying to get through. I helped my father apply online last month and while it takes some patience, it's doable. Here's what to expect: 1. Create a TWC account first (separate from the ID.me verification) 2. Have her SSN, employment history (last 18 months), and bank info for direct deposit ready 3. Set aside about 45-60 minutes of uninterrupted time 4. The ID.me verification is tricky but you can help her - she'll need her driver's license and a smartphone for a selfie verification The online system will walk you through each step. Just make sure you complete it all in one sitting if possible. After submission, she'll get a confirmation number - write this down!

website looks complicated but its actually easier than calling. My wife tried calling for 3 days straight couldnt get nobody on the phone!!!! The website atleast tells u what to do next even if its confusing

I got laid off in February and tried BOTH ways. Calling is IMPOSSIBLE. I spent literally 6 hours redailing and getting disconnected. The website isn't great but at least you can complete the application. WARNING: The ID.me verification is a NIGHTMARE! It kept rejecting my perfectly clear driver's license photo and then made me do a video call that had a 3+ hour wait time. Make sure your mom has all her documents (SSN card, birth certificate, driver's license) available and a phone that can take clear pictures. Also make sure she knows EXACTLY when she stopped working and has her final paystub. They'll deny the claim if dates don't match employer records EXACTLY. Ask me how I know... 🙄

I've been through both processes and honestly, the website is your best bet despite the hassles. For an elderly parent who isn't tech-savvy, I would recommend: 1. Set up TWC account using HER email (create one if needed - it's important for account recovery) 2. Do the application together, with you helping navigate but HER answering questions 3. For ID.me: iPhone 7 works but make sure it's updated to the latest iOS it can handle 4. Write down ALL passwords and confirmation numbers 5. After submission, help her request payments every two weeks - many people miss this step! One more thing: after application, she'll need to register with WorkInTexas.com within 3 days of filing - this is required but many people miss it and it delays benefits.

my sister had the same situation with my dad last year. she tried calling for like 2 weeks and nothing. the website is complicated but at least it works. plus you can do it at night when the system isnt as slow

After trying to call TWC for 3 weeks straight with no luck, I finally used Claimyr to get through to a TWC agent. It was absolutely worth it! Basically, they hold your place in line and call you when they get a TWC agent on the phone. I was skeptical but it actually worked in about 20 minutes when I had spent DAYS trying to call myself. You can see how it works here: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh Their website is claimyr.com if you want to check it out. For a first-time application with an elderly parent, sometimes talking to a real person is just easier than navigating the website, especially with the ID.me issues.

Former TWC claims specialist here. You've gotten good advice from most people. My official recommendation: 1. Use the website for the initial claim - start at ui.texasworkforce.org (not the main TWC site) 2. For a 67-year-old first-time applicant, make sure she has her complete work history for the past 18 months including: - Employer names EXACTLY as they appear on paystubs - Employer addresses and phone numbers - First and last day worked for each employer - Reason for separation (very important for eligibility) After filing online, she'll be assigned a PIN for Tele-Serv (phone system). She should keep this safe - it's different from her online password. One important note: Since your mother is over 65, she qualifies for exemption from some work search requirements - make sure this is noted in her application. The system should recognize this based on her birthdate.

One more thing! Make sure she requests payment on her designated filing day after applying! So many people file the initial claim and then don't realize they have to REQUEST PAYMENT every two weeks on a specific day of the week (based on the last digit of their SSN). Missing payment requests can mess up the whole claim!

To answer your earlier question - yes, payment requests are also done online through the same TWC account or through Tele-Serv (automated phone system). You'll need to help her request payment every two weeks, and she'll need to report any work and earnings during that period. For the Gmail account, make sure she can access it independently if possible. TWC sends important notices through email, and you don't want to miss a determination letter or appeal deadline because you weren't checking her email. Also, after the initial claim is processed (usually 2-3 weeks), she'll receive a Statement of Benefits in the mail that shows her weekly benefit amount (WBA). Check this carefully - if there are errors in her work history, this is when you'll see them reflected in a lower benefit amount.