First-time TWC claim with 'call us' message - approval timeline and backdating questions

The timeline really depends on your specific situation, but here's what to expect: After you call and provide the additional info, it typically takes 2-3 weeks for TWC to make a determination on your claim. If approved, your first payment request will be available after your waiting week (you don't get paid for the first week). As for finding a job - good news! You absolutely can still receive benefits for the weeks you were unemployed. Just make sure to stop requesting payments once you start working full-time. Be honest about any part-time work during payment requests (report all earnings). And don't worry, this is totally normal stress for first-time filers!

omg i remember my first time filing it was INSANE. took like 5 weeks to get paid but my friend got hers in 2 weeks so idk 🤷‍♀️ just keep calling them

Good luck calling that number! I spent three days trying to get through and just kept getting busy signals or disconnected after waiting forever. So frustrating!!!

The whole TWC system is designed to be confusing and frustrating so people just give up!!! I had to call SIX TIMES before anyone would explain why my benefits were "pending" for no reason. And then they had the nerve to tell me I didn't provide proper work separation information when I DEFINITELY DID on the application!!!

To address your specific questions: 1. Approval timeline: With a straightforward layoff, typically 14-21 days after providing all requested information 2. Payment timeline: First payment request period is available after the unpaid waiting week 3. Finding a job: Yes, TWC will pay benefits for eligible weeks before you start working For your layoff situation, having that HR letter is perfect! Also gather your last pay stub and separation notice if provided. When you call, they'll likely ask about your availability for work and ability to accept suitable employment. After the call, you'll need to complete work search activities (at least 3 per week in Texas) and document them for each payment request. Just make sure to stop requesting payments once you start your new job.

Don't forget about taxes!!!! They don't take them out automatic like a job does, u have to ask for it or else you'll owe next year!!

To answer your follow-up questions: 1. Work search activities: Applying for jobs definitely counts, but so do creating a profile on WorkInTexas.com, attending job fairs (virtual counts), having job interviews, creating/updating a LinkedIn profile, and meeting with career counselors. Just make sure to document dates and details. 2. Taxes: Yes, during your payment requests, there's an option to have 10% withheld for federal taxes. I recommend doing this to avoid a surprise tax bill later. 3. Payment timing: After you request payment (which happens every two weeks), funds typically appear on your debit card or direct deposit within 2-3 business days if your claim is in good standing. Don't stress too much about the "call us" message - it's standard procedure for many first-time claims, especially with layoffs. They just need to verify details that weren't clear from your online application.

Just want to add - when you call Tuesday, try calling right at 8am when they open. That's when you have the best chance of getting through without waiting forever. Also, have a pen and paper ready because they might give you a confirmation number or reference number for your call that you'll want to write down. Good luck with those interviews too! Even if you land something quickly, you'll still get paid for the weeks you were unemployed, so don't stress about that part.

Hey there! I went through this exact same process about 6 months ago and I totally get how overwhelming it feels. One thing that really helped me was keeping a simple spreadsheet to track everything - the date I called, who I spoke with, what they told me, confirmation numbers, etc. It saved me so much confusion later when I had follow-up questions. Also, don't be surprised if they ask you pretty detailed questions about your last day of work, your job duties, and exactly why you were laid off. They're not trying to trip you up, they just need to verify everything matches what your employer reported. You've got this! The hardest part is honestly just getting through on the phone, but once you talk to someone it usually goes pretty smoothly.

Another thing that helped me when I was in your shoes - make sure you have your Social Security card and driver's license handy when you call, even though you probably won't need them. Sometimes they ask for verification of personal info. Also, if you get disconnected (which unfortunately happens sometimes), don't panic! You can call back and explain you were cut off mid-conversation - they can usually look up your case notes and continue where you left off. One last tip: if the first agent seems confused about your situation, it's totally okay to politely ask to speak with someone else or call back later. Not all agents are equally knowledgeable, and you want to make sure you get accurate information. Hang in there - the stress of not knowing is honestly worse than the actual process once you get through it!

One more thing that might help ease your anxiety - I just went through this whole process last year and got that same "call us" message. Turned out they just needed to verify that my layoff wasn't due to misconduct (it wasn't, just company downsizing). The phone call took maybe 15 minutes and was way less scary than I'd built it up to be in my head. The agent was actually really helpful and walked me through what to expect next. My first payment showed up exactly 3 weeks after that call. Also, definitely take advantage of any job search workshops or career counseling services they offer - those count toward your work search requirements AND they're actually pretty useful. You're asking all the right questions and being proactive about getting information, which puts you way ahead of where I was when I started this process!