How to backdate TWC unemployment payments? Need advice on Texas process
Hey everyone, I need some help with backdating my unemployment payments. Has anyone gone through this process before? I'm not sure where to start or what information I need to provide. Any advice would be really appreciated!
76 comments


Amina Diallo
Backdating is such a headache. I swear, dealing with unemployment is a full-time job in itself. 😩
0 coins
Oliver Schulz
•I hear you. Balancing this with other responsibilities is tough.
0 coins
Emma Wilson
Just a heads up, if you do manage to get your claim backdated, be prepared for a potential overpayment notice. Sometimes when they recalculate everything, it can mess up your previous payments. Keep an eye on your account!
0 coins
Malik Thomas
•Thanks for the warning! I'll be sure to watch my account closely.
0 coins
Zainab Omar
Pro tip: If you cant get through on the main line, try calling right when they open or just before they close. Sometimes the wait times are shorter then.
0 coins
Connor Gallagher
•Thanks for the tip! I'll try calling at those times and see if it helps.
0 coins
StarStrider
Have you tried using the online portal to request backdating? Sometimes that's faster than calling. Just log in to your account and look for the option to request claim date change.
0 coins
Zoe Stavros
•I didn't know that was an option! I'll definitely check it out. Thanks for the tip!
0 coins
Dylan Campbell
•The online portal is hit or miss. I tried that route and ended up having to call anyway. YMMV
0 coins
Sofia Torres
•I had success with the online portal. It took a few tries, but was quicker than the phone.
0 coins
GalaxyGlider
Good luck getting through to anyone on the phone 🙄 I've been trying for weeks and can't even get past the automated system.
0 coins
Mei Wong
•Same here. Its like they dont want us to talk to a real person. So frustrating!
0 coins
Liam Sullivan
•I found a way to get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U
0 coins
Amara Okafor
•Sounds too good to be true. Is this legit?
0 coins
Liam Sullivan
•Yep, totally legit. I was skeptical at first too, but it saved me hours of frustration. Worth every penny imo.
0 coins
Giovanni Colombo
•How quickly did they connect you to an agent? This could be a game-changer if it works.
0 coins
Malik Thomas
Does anyone know if backdating affects your claim year end date? I'm worried about extending my benefits too far and losing out on weeks I could claim.
0 coins
NeonNebula
•Good question! I'm not sure, but that's definitely something to ask when you talk to a rep.
0 coins
Isabella Costa
•In my state, backdating didn't change my benefit year end date. But it might be different where you are. Best to double-check with TWC.
0 coins
Ravi Malhotra
•Definitely clarify this with a representative to avoid any surprises.
0 coins
Jamal Harris
I've been through this before. It can be a real pain in the butt, but it's doable. First, you need to call the TWC and explain your situation. Make sure you have all your dates and reasons for backdating ready. They might ask for proof, so gather any documents you have.
0 coins
Paolo Longo
Hey, has anyone tried contacting their state representative for help? I've heard sometimes they can cut through the red tape and get things moving.
0 coins
CosmicCowboy
•I did this! It actually worked. Took about a week, but my rep's office was able to escalate my case and get it resolved.
0 coins
Zoe Stavros
•Wow, I hadn't even thought of that. How do I find out who my rep is?
0 coins
Paolo Longo
•Just google "[your state] find my representative". There should be a website where you can enter your address and it'll tell you who represents you.
0 coins
Amina Diallo
•It's worth a try if you're stuck. Sometimes they have more pull than we think.
0 coins
Fatima Al-Qasimi
lol good luck. the system is so broken rn. i've been trying to get my claim sorted for months and still no luck. 🤡🤡🤡
0 coins
StarStrider
•I feel that frustration! How have you been managing without the payments?
0 coins
Connor Gallagher
Anyone else think its crazy that we have to jump through so many hoops just to get the benefits we're entitled to? The whole system needs an overhaul.
0 coins
Yara Sayegh
•Totally agree. It's like they forget were actual people trying to survive, not just numbers in a system.
0 coins
Keisha Johnson
•Yep, it's a mess. But what can we do? We're all in the same boat, just trying to stay afloat. 🚣♀️
0 coins
Paolo Longo
•Hopefully, they realize and make some changes soon.
0 coins
Freya Christensen
Backdating unemployment claims can vary depending on your state's policies, so it's important to get familiar with their specific requirements. Usually, you'll need to provide a valid reason for the backdating request, such as illness, a lack of awareness about your eligibility, or system glitches. Make sure to have supporting documents ready to substantiate your claim. These might include medical records, communication logs showing prior attempts to file, or proof of your unemployment status. If you find it difficult to connect with an agent over the phone, consider using services like Claimyr, which can help bypass long wait times but do come with a fee. Additionally, check the online portal for backdating options as they can sometimes expedite the process. Contacting your state representative is another route if traditional methods don't work. Remember to verify how backdating might impact the duration of your claim year and watch out for overpayment notices. While Claimyr is a viable tool, it's always wise to explore all available resources and methods that suit your situation best. Stay persistent and informed to navigate the complexities of the unemployment system effectively.
0 coins
Omar Farouk
•Thanks for the comprehensive breakdown! This will surely help others in similar situations.
0 coins
Sofia Torres
Anybody else feel like were all just rats in a maze trying to get our cheese? 🐀🧀 This whole unemployment system is a joke.
0 coins
Dmitry Sokolov
•Preach! 🙌 I've never felt so helpless dealing with a government agency before.
0 coins
Ava Martinez
•For real. It's like they designed it to be as frustrating as possible. 😤
0 coins
Miguel Ramos
•Maybe they need a better system to handle these claims efficiently.
0 coins
Giovanni Colombo
I backdate my claim last month. heres what I did: 1. Gathered all my employment info and dates 2. Called TWC (took forever to get through) 3. Explained my situation to the rep 4. Filled out some extra forms they sent me 5. Waited about 2 weeks for approval It was a hassle, but I got my backdated payments eventually. Hang in there!
0 coins
Zoe Stavros
•Thanks for the detailed info! How long did you have to wait on hold when you called?
0 coins
Giovanni Colombo
•No problem! I was on hold for about 3 hours 😫 It was brutal, but worth it in the end.
0 coins
Fatima Al-Qasimi
•Wow, 3 hours is insane! I hope they improve the system soon.
0 coins
QuantumQuasar
I heard they're being extra strict with backdating claims lately because of all the fraud. Be prepared to provide lots of documentation to prove your case.
0 coins
Zoe Stavros
•Ugh, that sounds like a headache. What kind of documentation should I gather?
0 coins
QuantumQuasar
•Things like medical records if you were sick, emails or texts showing you were trying to file, proof of when you became unemployed, etc. Basically anything that supports your reason for needing to backdate.
0 coins
Zainab Omar
•Make sure you keep copies of everything you send them as well.
0 coins
Oliver Schulz
Quick question for those who've done this before - how far back were you able to backdate? Is there a limit?
0 coins
Natasha Orlova
•In my experience, they usually won't go back more than a few months unless you have a really good reason.
0 coins
Javier Cruz
•I think it depends on your state. Where I am, they let me backdate to when COVID first hit, but that might have been a special case.
0 coins
Emma Wilson
•Check with your state's guidelines. It varies greatly.
0 coins
Miguel Ramos
Hey OP, make sure you have a good reason for backdating. They won't just do it because you forgot to file or something. Common reasons they accept are: - You were too sick to file - You didn't know you were eligible - There was a system error that prevented you from filing Hope this helps!
0 coins
Zoe Stavros
•This is useful, thank you! I'll make sure to have a valid reason ready.
0 coins
Emma Johnson
I went through the backdating process about 6 months ago and it was definitely challenging but worth it in the end. Here's what worked for me: I called TWC first thing in the morning (around 8 AM) and surprisingly got through after only 45 minutes on hold. The rep was actually pretty helpful once I explained my situation clearly. Make sure you have all your employment dates, reason for backdating, and any supporting documents ready before you call. In my case, I had to backdate because I didn't realize I was eligible for benefits initially. They approved my request and I received the backdated payments about 3 weeks later. One thing to watch out for - double check all the payment amounts when they come through. I caught a small error that would have resulted in an overpayment issue later. Good luck with your claim!
0 coins
Deepika Kuragayala
What are valid reasons for backdating a claim in Texas?
1 coin
Isla Fischer
•Great question! From what I've seen in this thread and other discussions, Texas TWC typically accepts these valid reasons for backdating: 1) You were physically or mentally unable to file due to illness/injury, 2) You weren't aware you were eligible for benefits, 3) There was a system error or technical issue that prevented filing, 4) You received incorrect information from TWC that delayed your filing, or 5) You were waiting for a separation determination. You'll need documentation to support whichever reason applies to your situation. Hope this helps!
0 coins
Deepika Kuragayala
•@Isla Fischer I don t'think not knowing you were eligible for benefits is an acceptable answer.
0 coins
Deepika Kuragayala
If you did not file for unemployment last year is there anyway to do it now?
0 coins
Liam Mendez
Unfortunately, there are strict time limits for filing unemployment claims. In Texas, you generally have to file within a certain timeframe after becoming unemployed - typically you can't go back a full year. However, I'd recommend calling TWC directly to ask about your specific situation. Sometimes there are exceptions for extraordinary circumstances like serious illness, military deployment, or other extenuating factors. You might also want to check if there were any special pandemic-related extensions that could apply. It's worth a phone call to find out for sure rather than assuming you're out of luck!
0 coins
Yara Nassar
•@Liam Mendez is right about the time limits. I faced a similar situation last year and unfortunately learned that Texas has pretty strict deadlines. The general rule is you need to file within a reasonable time after becoming unemployed, and waiting a full year is usually considered too long. However, definitely call TWC to explore your options - they might have some flexibility if you have documented proof of why you couldn t'file earlier like (serious medical issues, lack of knowledge due to language barriers, etc. .)Even if they can t'help with last year s'claim, they can at least explain the current requirements so you know what to do if you need benefits in the future.
0 coins
Sean Kelly
I'm going through the same thing right now! From reading everyone's experiences here, it sounds like the key is being persistent and having all your documentation ready. I'm planning to try the online portal first since some people had success with that, and if that doesn't work I'll call early in the morning when wait times might be shorter. It's frustrating how complicated this process is when people are already dealing with the stress of unemployment. Thanks everyone for sharing your tips - this thread has been really helpful!
0 coins
Hiroshi Nakamura
•You're so right about being persistent! I'm in a similar boat and this thread has been a goldmine of information. The online portal tip is definitely worth trying first - seems like it works for some people and could save hours of phone time. I'm also bookmarking that suggestion about calling right when they open. Good luck with your claim, and thanks for acknowledging how stressful this whole process is when we're already dealing with job loss!
0 coins
Omar Zaki
I just went through this process last month and wanted to share what worked for me. The key is being super organized before you start. I made a timeline of all my employment dates, gathered my termination paperwork, and wrote down exactly why I needed to backdate (in my case, I was hospitalized and couldn't file initially). When I called TWC, I got through around 2 PM on a Wednesday after about 90 minutes on hold. The rep was actually understanding once I explained everything clearly and had my documentation ready. They processed my request in about 10 days and I received all my backdated payments without any issues. One tip - take screenshots of everything in your online account before and after the process, just in case there are any discrepancies later. The whole thing was stressful but definitely doable if you stay organized and persistent!
0 coins
Dylan Mitchell
•This is exactly the kind of detailed breakdown I was hoping to find! The timeline approach sounds really smart - I'm going to organize all my dates and documents the same way before I call. It's encouraging to hear that the rep was understanding once you had everything ready. The screenshot tip is brilliant too, I never would have thought of that but it makes total sense to have proof of everything before and after. Thanks for taking the time to share your success story - gives me hope that this process can actually work out!
0 coins
Paolo Conti
Just wanted to add my experience to help out! I successfully backdated my TWC claim about 4 months ago. The biggest thing that helped me was calling the callback service through the TWC website instead of sitting on hold for hours. You can request a callback and they'll call you back when it's your turn - saved me so much time and frustration. When they called back, I had everything ready: my last day of work, reason for backdating (I was dealing with a family emergency and didn't know I could file), and all my employment records. The whole call took about 20 minutes once I got through to someone. They approved it within 2 weeks and I got all my back payments. One more tip - if you're backdating because of illness or family issues, don't be afraid to be honest about your situation. The reps are usually pretty understanding when you explain genuine circumstances. Good luck everyone! 🤞
0 coins
Anna Stewart
•The callback service is a game changer! I had no idea that was even an option through the TWC website. I've been dreading having to sit on hold for hours, so this could save me so much stress. Your point about being honest about genuine circumstances is really reassuring too - I was worried they'd be skeptical of my situation, but it sounds like they're more understanding than I expected. Thanks for sharing your timeline and the specific details about how long the approval took. This gives me a much clearer picture of what to expect when I start my own backdating process!
0 coins
Emma Johnson
Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I'm feeling much more confident about tackling this process now. It sounds like the key takeaways are: 1) Be organized with all your documentation and dates, 2) Try the online portal first, 3) Use the callback service if calling, 4) Have a valid reason ready with supporting docs, and 5) Be persistent but patient. I really appreciate how supportive this community is - it makes dealing with unemployment bureaucracy feel less overwhelming when you know others have been through it successfully. I'll update you all on how it goes! 🙏
0 coins
Natasha Kuznetsova
•You've got this! That's a perfect summary of all the key points. I love how this community comes together to help each other navigate these frustrating systems. Your positive attitude will definitely help when dealing with the TWC reps too. Looking forward to hearing your success story - I'm sure it'll help the next person who finds this thread! 💪
0 coins
Connor Richards
I just wanted to add something that helped me when I was backdating my claim - make sure to keep detailed notes of every interaction you have with TWC. Write down the date, time, who you spoke with, their employee ID if they give it, and exactly what they told you. I had to call back multiple times and having those notes saved me from having to re-explain everything each time. Also, if they tell you they're going to mail you forms or that something will be processed by a certain date, get that in writing through your online account messages if possible. It's extra work but it really pays off if there are any disputes or delays later. The whole system can be inconsistent between different reps, so documentation is your best friend! Hope this helps someone avoid the headaches I went through.
0 coins
Aisha Jackson
•This is such valuable advice! I never would have thought to document every interaction like that, but it makes perfect sense given how many different reps people end up talking to. The tip about getting things in writing through the online account messages is especially smart - that creates an official paper trail that's harder to dispute later. I'm definitely going to start a dedicated notebook for all my TWC interactions before I even make my first call. Thanks for sharing this - it could save so many people from having to start over when they get conflicting information from different representatives!
0 coins
Sebastian Scott
I'm currently dealing with this exact situation and feeling pretty overwhelmed by all the information out there. Reading through everyone's experiences here has been incredibly helpful! It sounds like the process is definitely challenging but not impossible. I'm planning to start by gathering all my employment documentation and writing down a clear timeline of events before I attempt to contact TWC. The callback service mentioned by @Paolo Conti sounds like a much better option than sitting on hold for hours. I'm also going to try the online portal first since some people had success with that route. Has anyone here dealt with backdating due to not initially knowing about eligibility? I'm wondering if that's considered a valid reason or if I need to find a different angle. Thanks to everyone who's shared their experiences - this community support makes the whole process feel less daunting!
0 coins
Dylan Fisher
•Hey @Sebastian Scott! I'm in a similar boat and was wondering the same thing about eligibility awareness. From what I've read in this thread, it seems like opinions are mixed on whether "not knowing you were eligible" is considered valid by TWC. @Isla Fischer mentioned it as one of the accepted reasons, but @Deepika Kuragayala disagreed. I think your best bet is to call and ask directly, or maybe frame it differently - like if there was misinformation that led to the delay, or if your employment situation was confusing enough that eligibility wasn t clear.'The key seems to be having some kind of documentation or legitimate reason beyond just I forgot "or I" didn "t bother'to check. Good luck" with your process!
0 coins
Kayla Jacobson
I'm currently in the middle of my own backdating process and wanted to share what I've learned so far. After reading through all these helpful comments, I decided to try the online portal first before calling. It took a few attempts over different days, but I was actually able to submit my backdating request through the system! The key was being really specific about my reason (I was caring for a sick family member and didn't realize I could file) and uploading supporting documentation right away. I included medical records and a letter from the doctor explaining the situation. The system gave me a confirmation number and said to expect a response within 21 business days. I'm about 10 days in now and haven't heard back yet, but I'm staying optimistic. For anyone else trying the online route first - make sure you have all your documents scanned and ready to upload before you start the process. The system times out if you take too long. I'll definitely update if I get approved! Fingers crossed this works out better than the phone marathon everyone talks about.
0 coins
Fiona Gallagher
•That's awesome that you were able to submit through the online portal! I've been hesitant to try that route because of all the mixed reviews, but your success gives me hope. The tip about having documents scanned and ready beforehand is really helpful - I can imagine how frustrating it would be to get timed out while trying to upload everything. Your reason sounds very legitimate with the medical documentation to back it up. Really hoping the 21-day timeline works out for you and you don't have to deal with the phone system at all. Please do keep us posted on the outcome - it would be great to know if the online route actually comes through! 🤞
0 coins
Freya Thomsen
I'm going through the backdating process right now too and this thread has been incredibly helpful! Based on everyone's experiences, I'm planning to try the online portal first since @Kayla Jacobson had success with it. If that doesn't work, I'll use the callback service that @Paolo Conti mentioned - I had no idea that was even an option. My situation is that I was dealing with a medical issue and wasn't able to file initially, so I have doctor's notes and hospital records to support my case. It's reassuring to see so many people have actually gotten through this process successfully, even though it seems daunting at first. Thanks to everyone for sharing such detailed advice - having a roadmap makes this feel much more manageable! I'll definitely update once I make some progress.
0 coins
Yara Nassar
•You have a really solid plan! Having medical documentation definitely strengthens your case - that sounds like exactly the kind of legitimate reason TWC looks for. I love how this thread has become such a helpful resource for everyone going through this process. It's smart to try the online portal first since it worked for @Kayla Jacobson, and having the callback service as a backup plan is perfect. Your medical situation sounds very similar to what @Omar Zaki went through successfully, so I m'optimistic you ll'have a good outcome. Looking forward to hearing how it goes for you! This community support really makes all the difference when dealing with these bureaucratic challenges.
0 coins
Sophie Hernandez
I've been reading through all these experiences and it's really encouraging to see so many people successfully navigate the backdating process! I'm in a similar situation where I need to backdate my claim due to a family emergency that prevented me from filing initially. Based on everyone's advice here, I'm planning to start with the online portal and have all my documentation ready - including hospital records and a timeline of events. It's amazing how much helpful information is in this thread. The tip about using the callback service as a backup plan is brilliant, and I never would have thought to take screenshots of my account before starting the process. Thanks everyone for being so generous with sharing your experiences - it really helps to know this is doable even though the system can be frustrating! 🙏
0 coins