Sexual assault at workplace led to firing - TWC benefits eligibility?

First, I'm so sorry you're going through this. To answer your question: Yes, you could qualify for TWC benefits if you quit due to what's called "good cause" - and a hostile work environment following a sexual assault report definitely qualifies. Texas is an at-will employment state, but that doesn't mean employers can retaliate against you for reporting assault. Here's what I recommend: 1. Document EVERYTHING - text messages, emails, schedule changes, any comments made 2. Report the retaliation to HR in writing (email) if you haven't already 3. File a police report about the assault if you haven't 4. Continue working while job hunting if you feel safe enough If you quit, when you file for unemployment, you'll need to clearly explain that you left due to a hostile work environment following your sexual assault report. TWC considers this good cause to leave employment.

u should get a lawyer asap. this is big time illegal what theyre doing. my cousin went thru similar thing at her resturant job and got unemployment + settlement $$$

This situation absolutely falls under what TWC considers "good cause" to leave employment. In my experience, you should continue working while documenting everything, but if you feel unsafe, your mental health comes first. When you apply for unemployment, TWC will contact your employer and they'll likely contest it. That's why documentation is crucial. Be prepared to explain during your TWC interview exactly why the workplace became hostile. Use specific examples. Two important things: 1) If you do quit, make sure to tell your employer IN WRITING that you're leaving because of the hostile work environment created after reporting the assault. 2) In Texas, you must be actively looking for work (minimum 3 job search activities per week) to maintain unemployment benefits.

hey not to get off topic but if you need to talk to TWC directly about this situation you should try claimyr.com - it got me through to an actual TWC agent in like 20 mins when I had a complicated situation with my claim. they have a video showing how it works https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh

dont quit!!!! if u quit itll be way harder to get benefits. make them fire u. texas is at will so theres nothing u can do about being fired but at least ud get unemployment easier

OMG THIS HAPENED TO ME TOO!! Different situation (no assault thank god) but they cut my hours trying to make me quit after I reported harassment!!! I ended up quitting and TWC denied me at first but I appealed and won. The TWC hearing officer was actually really understanding when I explained everything. Make sure you save EVERY text, email, schedule change, EVERYTHING. They tried to say I voluntarily quit without good cause but I had proof they were trying to force me out. YOU CAN WIN THIS!!!

After reading through all the comments, I want to add a few more points: 1. If you do decide to quit, be very specific in your TWC application about the hostile work environment and retaliation. Use the phrase "constructive discharge" - it's when an employer deliberately creates intolerable working conditions forcing an employee to resign. 2. Texas law protects workers who report sexual assault from retaliation. Cutting hours after your report could qualify as retaliation. 3. When documenting, include dates, times, what was said/done, and who witnessed it. 4. If you're able to speak with a TWC representative directly about your situation before filing, that can be helpful. The standard phone lines are usually jammed, which is why someone mentioned Claimyr - it can be worth it for complex cases like yours.

So sorry you're going through this! One thing nobody mentioned - if you do need to quit, try to line up another job first if possible. Even with a valid "good cause" quit, TWC benefits can take 4-6 weeks to start if everything goes smoothly, and MUCH longer if your employer contests it (which they probably will). My determination letter took 8 weeks, and then I had to appeal which took another month. I almost lost my apartment waiting for benefits to start. Just something to prepare for financially if you can.