Has anyone got TWC benefits extended after exhausting regular UI in 2025?

sry but there arent any automatic extensions anymore like during covid. those ended years ago. regular ui is just 26 weeks now unless theres a major economic crisis or something

The regular Texas unemployment benefit period is 26 weeks maximum, and unfortunately there aren't any automatic extensions available right now like there were during the pandemic (PUA, PEUC, etc). However, there are a couple things you should know: 1. Make sure you're registered with WorkInTexas.com and actively using it. Sometimes they have special programs through the workforce office that might help even after benefits end. 2. If you have a partial job or can get part-time work, you might still qualify for some reduced benefits that could stretch your benefit period longer. 3. If you have any pending wage investigations or appeals that resolve in your favor, those could potentially add more to your benefit amount. Have you visited your local Workforce Solutions office in person? They sometimes know about programs that aren't widely advertised.

I went through this last month!!! It's SO STRESSFUL when benefits are about to run out!! I was freaking out too because I thought maybe there was something wrong with my account since everyone kept saying "check if you qualify for an extension" but there WAS NO OPTION for an extension anywhere on my account! I called TWC for 3 DAYS STRAIGHT trying to get someone to explain it to me. Busy signal, disconnected, busy signal, on hold forever then disconnected again. Nobody could tell me if I was eligible for anything else or if I was just DONE. So frustrating!!!

I was in your situation back in January and unfortunately, there's no standard extension program currently available in Texas. The 26 weeks is all you get unless the unemployment rate triggers special federal extensions (which hasn't happened). However, I recommend calling TWC directly to confirm there aren't any other programs you might qualify for based on your specific situation. Some people qualify for training programs that include stipends, especially if you're willing to learn new skills in high-demand fields. When I was trying to reach TWC, I kept getting busy signals until I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com). They have a system that connects you with a TWC agent without the endless busy signals. Saved me hours of frustration. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh Worth it to at least confirm whether there are any other options for your specific case. Sometimes they know about county-specific programs too.

I work with unemployment cases regularly, and I want to clarify a few things: 1. Regular Texas UI benefits are limited to 26 weeks within your benefit year. 2. There are currently NO federal extension programs active in Texas (Extended Benefits or other emergency programs). 3. Extensions only become available when the state unemployment rate exceeds certain thresholds, which hasn't happened recently. 4. What you CAN do is look into Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs through your local Workforce Solutions office. These can provide training opportunities and sometimes financial support during training. 5. Also check with your county's Community Action Agency for possible rental assistance programs if housing is your primary concern. If you've been actively searching for work (documenting your 3+ work search activities weekly) throughout your benefit period, make sure to mention this when seeking other forms of assistance, as it demonstrates your ongoing effort to become self-sufficient.

Just want to add my experience - I exhausted my benefits last month and thought I was completely out of options. Went to my local Workforce office and found out I qualified for their dislocated worker program which includes some financial help while getting training in healthcare. It's not unemployment benefits technically, but it's helping me bridge the gap. You should definitely check if you qualify for any of their training programs!

OK so update on my situation since it might help you. After my benefits ran out, I did eventually reach someone at TWC (after literally 46 calls!!!) and they confirmed there are NO extensions unless you have a pending wage investigation that could increase your benefit amount. BUT what they did tell me is that if you find part-time work, you can actually make your benefits last longer because you'll only use a portion of your weekly benefit amount each week. Might be too late for you now but something to know.

Following up on my earlier comment - since you mentioned struggling with rent specifically, you should immediately apply for the Texas Rent Relief program if it's open for applications, or check with your county's Community Action Agency. Many counties still have rental assistance funds available even after the federal programs ended. Also, if you're receiving SNAP benefits, make sure TWC knows this as it can sometimes help qualify you for priority service in some of their workforce development programs. Did you have any luck reaching a TWC representative to discuss your specific situation?