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Need to extend my TWC benefits - can't find option in my account portal

I'm getting really worried because my regular unemployment benefits are about to run out in 3 weeks (according to my payment summary). I've been looking everywhere on the TWC website for information about extending benefits but can't find anything specific in my account portal. Is there a special section I'm missing or do I need to call TWC directly to request an extension? My industry (healthcare administration) is still struggling in my area and I've applied to 25+ jobs with no luck. Anyone gone through this process recently? I'm desperate to avoid a gap in payments while I'm still job searching.

Dmitry Ivanov

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you dont automatically get extensions anymore like during covid. texas doesnt have any special extended benefits program right now unless theres a new announcement i missed. once ur regular benefits are gone thats usually it unless the unemployment rate hits certain levels

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StarSailor

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Oh no, really? I thought extensions were still available if you couldn't find work. This is terrifying. Are you 100% sure about this?

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Ava Garcia

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What you're looking for doesn't exist as a simple "extension option" in your portal. After the pandemic-era extensions ended, Texas returned to the standard unemployment insurance system. Here's what you need to know: 1. Regular UI benefits in Texas last for 26 weeks maximum 2. Extended Benefits (EB) only trigger when state unemployment reaches high thresholds (not currently active) 3. Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) might be available if you lost your job due to foreign trade impact 4. If you've worked part-time during your benefit period, you might have weeks of eligibility remaining I recommend calling TWC directly at 800-939-6631 to discuss your specific situation and check if you qualify for any special programs based on your circumstances. They might be able to suggest retraining opportunities or other support services.

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StarSailor

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Thank you so much for this detailed information! I had no idea the extensions were only during COVID. I'll definitely call that number to see what options I might have. Do you know if they'll at least tell me about any job training programs I might qualify for?

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Miguel Silva

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DONT WASTE YOUR TIME looking for that extension button, it AIN'T THERE!!! I went through the same thing 2 months ago and spent HOURS clicking around that stupid website. Called TWC literally 47 times before getting through only to be told "sorry, you've exhausted your benefits." The system is DESIGNED to frustrate you!! They make you think there's some magical extension process but there ISN'T unless we're in a major economic meltdown with high unemployment rates!!! My advice? Start applying for literally ANYTHING, even if it's below your normal pay. I had to take a huge paycut but at least I'm working. The healthcare admin field is BRUTAL right now.

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StarSailor

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That's honestly devastating to hear, but I appreciate the honesty. I've been applying to jobs outside my field too but haven't had any luck yet. Did they at least offer you any resources when you called?

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Zainab Ismail

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I tried calling TWC about extending benefits last month and was on hold forever. Then I found Claimyr.com and it got me through to an actual TWC agent in about 20 minutes instead of hours of redials. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh The agent confirmed what others said - regular extensions aren't available now, but they helped me explore a couple of options I didn't know about. They connected me with a career counselor who helped me update my resume and apply for training programs. Worth the call even if it's just to know where you stand.

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Dmitry Ivanov

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thx for sharing this. i need to call them about my work search requirements and keep getting busy signals all day

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Benefits extensions are no longer available as others mentioned, but there's something important you should know! If you're still within your benefit year (usually 12 months from when you first applied) but have used all 26 weeks of payments, you *might* qualify for additional benefits if you worked during your claim period and earned enough wages. It's called "requalifying" and requires you to have worked enough during your benefit year. Also, check with WorkInTexas.com as they sometimes have special training programs with stipends for in-demand industries. Healthcare administration skills can transfer to several other sectors, and TWC's workforce solutions offices can help with that transition. Don't give up hope!

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StarSailor

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Thank you for explaining this! I did work part-time for about 4 weeks during my claim period, but I'm not sure if that's enough to requalify. I'll definitely ask about this when I call TWC. I'll also check out WorkInTexas.com right now - really appreciate the suggestion about the training programs with stipends!

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Just want to say im goin thru the exact same thing right now. my benefits run out next week and im freaking out!!! just applied to like 10 more jobs today. this whole system is so confusing and nobody at twc explains anything clearly. good luck to u, at least we're not alone in this mess

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StarSailor

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Thanks for the support - it really does help to know I'm not alone in this. Good luck with your job applications! Let me know if you find any resources that help.

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Ava Garcia

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After you call TWC, I also recommend contacting your local Workforce Solutions office. Many people don't realize they offer free career counseling, resume help, and sometimes even funding for retraining programs. If your healthcare admin background includes medical coding or billing, there are several certification programs that TWC might help fund to make you more competitive. Here's the link to find your local office: https://www.twc.texas.gov/directory-workforce-solutions-offices-services They can also help determine if you qualify for any other assistance programs during your job search.

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StarSailor

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I didn't know about the local offices having this much support! I will definitely contact them. I do have some medical coding experience, so maybe they can help me get certified. Thank you again for all this information - it's giving me some hope during a really stressful time.

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Yara Nassar

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Have you tried looking into Disaster Unemployment Assistance? Sometimes they have special programs if your area was affected by something like floods or other disasters. Just another option to consider if it applies to your situation.

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Ava Garcia

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Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is only available if you lost your job as a direct result of a federally declared disaster and wouldn't qualify for regular unemployment benefits. It's not an extension program for those who've exhausted regular benefits. Also requires a federal disaster declaration for the claimant's area, which isn't currently active for most of Texas.

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StarSailor

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Update: I finally got through to TWC today! The agent confirmed what everyone here said - there aren't any automatic extensions right now. But she was actually really helpful and went through some options with me: 1. She explained how to apply for SNAP benefits to help with groceries while job searching 2. Connected me with Workforce Solutions for their healthcare specialization program 3. Suggested I look into the Self-Employment Assistance program since I have some skills that could work freelance I have an appointment with a career counselor next week, and they're going to help me explore training options that might come with a stipend. Still worried about paying rent next month, but at least I have some direction now. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!

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