Moving to another state - should I file TWC unemployment in Texas or my new state?

You should file your unemployment claim with Texas since that's where you earned your wages. The general rule is you file with the state where you worked, not where you currently live. Since all your work was performed for a Texas employer, TWC is the correct agency to handle your claim, even though you physically moved to Oklahoma.

ive moved between states TWICE while on unemployment... total nightmare!!!! the first time I tried filing in the new state and they rejected me because all my wages were from the previous state. wasted 3 weeks trying to sort it out.

i moved from texas to arizona last year and tried to apply in arizone first. big mistake!! they made me start all over with texas. wasted like 2 weeks of benefits

I had this exact situation in 2025. Here's what you need to know: 1. File with Texas TWC since that's where your wages were earned 2. When filling out the application, use your current Oklahoma address 3. You'll need to register with the Oklahoma unemployment office for work search purposes 4. You'll request payments through Texas TWC's system 5. You'll follow Oklahoma's work search requirements (which may differ from Texas) It's called an "interstate claim" - basically Texas pays your benefits but Oklahoma monitors your work search. The systems talk to each other (though sometimes not very efficiently). Make sure to check both states' work search requirements. Oklahoma might require more or different activities than Texas' standard 3 per week.

I just went thru this!!! It will automatically be flagged as interstate when u enter ur out of state address. BUT good luck getting thru to TWC - I tried for 2 weeks straight and kept getting busy signals or disconnected. Super frustrating when you're trying to figure this interstate stuff out!!!

One important thing that hasn't been mentioned: when you file with Texas but live in Oklahoma, you'll receive information about registering with Oklahoma's employment services for work search requirements. This is known as the "Interstate Connection Program" or ICP. After you file your initial claim with TWC and they determine you're eligible, you'll receive instructions to register with Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC). You'll still request your payment benefits through TWC's system, but you'll need to meet Oklahoma's work search requirements and document them according to OESC rules. Also, be aware that your benefit amount will be calculated using Texas wages and Texas benefit formulas, not Oklahoma's. This is important because benefit amounts can vary significantly between states.

Yes, you'll need accounts with both agencies. You'll file your initial claim and request payments through your TWC account, but you'll also need an OESC account to register for work search and document your activities. Here's the typical process: 1. File initial claim with TWC using your Oklahoma address 2. TWC processes your claim (this can take 2-3 weeks) 3. If approved, TWC notifies Oklahoma that you have an interstate claim 4. You'll receive instructions to register with OESC 5. You request payments through TWC but follow Oklahoma work search rules It sounds complicated, but once it's set up, it's manageable. The most important thing is to follow the specific instructions you receive from both agencies.

wait do you still have to pay texas income tax on the unemployment if you live in oklahoma now?????

To summarize what everyone has said and add one important point: Yes, file with TWC, but be prepared for a slightly longer processing time for interstate claims. They typically take 3-4 weeks instead of the usual 2-3 weeks for regular claims. This is because TWC has to coordinate with OESC for the interstate aspects of your claim. Also, make sure you have documentation ready showing your move date, as they might request this to verify your situation. Keep records of all communications from both agencies. Lastly, once approved, don't forget to request your payment on your assigned day through the TWC system, not Oklahoma's system. Missing a payment request can cause significant delays.