How to submit TWC work search activities - can I upload pictures of handwritten job applications?

You don't need to upload any proof of work search when submitting your payment request. TWC just asks you to enter the NUMBER of work search activities you completed (minimum 3 per week in Texas). You should keep detailed records of all your work search activities though, since TWC can audit you anytime up to a year later and ask for proof. If that happens, then your handwritten notes would work as documentation. Just make sure you include the date, employer name, position, how you applied, and any contact info or confirmation numbers.

trust me you dont have to worry about uploading anything. just say you did 3 job searchs each week when they ask. they havent checked mine once in 4 months lol

Has anyone actually been audited before? What did they ask for exactly? I'm still not clear if my handwritten notes would be enough or if I should be saving confirmation emails from job applications too?

What counts as work search activities? Does just looking at job postings count or do I have to actually apply?

I tried calling TWC last week to ask them this exact question and got disconnected THREE TIMES after waiting over an hour each time. So frustrating! Has anyone found a better way to actually speak to a real person there??

THE TWC SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO MAKE YOU FAIL!!! They don't explain anything clearly and then when you make a mistake they PUNISH YOU by taking away benefits. I got audited and they said my work searches weren't "adequate" even though I applied to over 20 jobs!!! This is all about making it hard to collect what we're entitled to!!

To answer your original question more directly: When you submit your payment request every two weeks (either online or by phone through Tele-Serv), you'll just enter the NUMBER of work search activities you completed each week. The minimum is 3 per week in Texas. For your records (which you should keep but don't upload unless specifically audited): 1. Include employer name, position, date, application method, contact info 2. Save confirmation emails, screenshots, or reference numbers when possible 3. Vary your activities - include networking, interviews, and job fairs too 4. Make sure activities are for "suitable work" matching your skills 5. Keep records for at least a year after your claim ends The TWC Work Search Guidelines page has all the official details if you want to be extra careful.

Just wanted to add that you should also make sure you're registered on WorkInTexas.com - it's the state's official job board and TWC requires you to maintain an active profile there. You can actually count creating/updating your profile as one of your work search activities. Also, if you're applying to jobs in person (like retail or restaurant positions), try to get a business card or ask for the manager's name so you have something concrete to document beyond just your handwritten notes. Having that extra detail can really help if you ever get audited.

One thing I learned the hard way - make sure you're applying to jobs that are actually "suitable work" for your background and skills. I got flagged during an audit because I was applying to random positions way outside my field just to hit the 3-per-week requirement. TWC considers suitable work to be jobs that match your previous experience, education, and the wage you were earning before unemployment (though they do lower the wage threshold over time). So if you were a manager making $20/hour, don't just apply to minimum wage jobs thinking it counts the same. Focus on positions that genuinely match your qualifications - it's better to have 3 quality, relevant applications than 10 random ones that might not pass an audit.

I've been on unemployment for about 8 months now and went through an audit around month 5. One tip I'd add is to keep a simple spreadsheet or document on your phone/computer where you log each work search activity immediately after doing it. I found that trying to recreate my activities from memory weeks later was really difficult. Also, don't forget that networking activities count too! I attended a few virtual networking events through my local library and workforce center, and those counted as valid work search activities. LinkedIn networking (reaching out to people in your field, joining professional groups) can also count if you document it properly with screenshots of your messages or connection requests. The key is really just being consistent and thorough with your documentation. I know it feels like extra work when you're already stressed about finding a job, but it's so worth it for peace of mind. Good luck with your job search!