How to file for TWC unemployment in Texas - step-by-step guide needed!

I filed back in January and can walk you through it. First, go to the TWC website (ui.texasworkforce.org) and create an account if you don't already have one. You'll need your Social Security number, last employer's info including their TWC tax number (should be on your pay stub), dates of employment, and your bank info for direct deposit. The online application takes about 30-45 minutes if you have everything ready. After you submit, you'll get a determination letter in about 2-3 weeks. While waiting, you need to request payment every two weeks (mark these dates on your calendar!). And yes, you need to complete at least 3 work search activities each week and keep documentation of them. Check out this video that explains the whole process: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh If you need to speak with someone at TWC directly (which I recommend for your first time), use Claimyr.com - it helped me get through when the phone lines were jammed. Saved me days of busy signals.

Ouch, retail cuts are brutal right now. Sorry to hear that.

Actually, the process isn't that hard once you get started. Here's what you need to do step-by-step: 1. Gather your documents: Social Security card, driver's license, employment history for the last 18 months (company names, addresses, phone numbers, employment dates), and your bank account info for direct deposit. 2. Go to ui.texasworkforce.org and click "Apply for Benefits" 3. Create a TWC account (or log in if you already have one) 4. Complete the application truthfully - this takes about 30-45 minutes 5. After submitting, note your confirmation number 6. Request payment every two weeks on your assigned day (this is DIFFERENT from the initial application and many people miss this step) 7. Complete at least 3 work search activities each week and document them 8. Register with WorkInTexas.com (this is required) The most common mistakes are: missing payment request days, not doing enough work search activities, and not registering with WorkInTexas.com. You'll get several letters in the mail - a Statement of Wages and Potential Benefits Amount, and then a Determination on Payment of Unemployment Benefits. Read them carefully!

The TWC website is GARBAGE!!! I tried filing online 3 times and kept getting errors. Then when I finally submitted everything, they claimed they never received my employment info and delayed my benefits for 6 WEEKS! My advice? Call them directly and do it over the phone with an actual person. Save yourself the headache!!!

Let me clarify some important points about work search requirements since you mentioned them: Work search activities that count include: - Applying for jobs (online or in person) - Attending job interviews - Registering with employment agencies - Attending networking events - Participating in job fairs - Creating profiles on professional job sites - Attending TWC-approved training You must do at least 3 different activities each week. Keep detailed records with dates, company names, contact information, and application methods. TWC can audit your work search records at any time. Regarding your initial application - answer everything truthfully, especially about your reason for separation. If you were laid off due to lack of work, make sure that's clear. If there's any confusion about why you're no longer employed, TWC may need to investigate, which can delay benefits. Also, once you start receiving benefits, report ANY income you earn, even from part-time or temporary work. Failing to report earnings is the most common cause of overpayment notices.

i filed last month after being let go from my warehouse job. the most important thing is to keep requesting payment every 2 weeks even if your still waiting for approval. i missed one payment request date and had to call them to reactivate my claim which was a huge pain

my cousin said you should apply sunday night online cause thats when the system is least busy

I remember when I filed last year I got so confused about the payment request vs. the initial application. They're definitely two different things!

Just wanted to follow up - did you get your application submitted? One other thing I forgot to mention is that after you apply, you'll probably receive a call from TWC to verify some information. Make sure you answer calls from unknown numbers for a few days after you submit your application. If you miss their call, it can delay your claim processing.

Something nobody mentioned yet - if you can't get through on the regular TWC phone line (and you probably won't), try calling your local Workforce Solutions office instead. They can sometimes help with basic unemployment questions or at least give you better information about your claim status. I got way more help from my local office than from the main TWC number when I filed after being laid off from teaching position.