TWC benefits before actual layoff date - Can I apply now for Jan 18th layoff?

You should wait until your last day of work before applying. TWC specifically asks for your last day worked when you file, and filing before that date could cause problems with your claim. However, you can gather all the documents you'll need now - your last 18 months of employment history with dates and contact info, your social security number, and your driver's license. Also make sure you have the exact mailing address of your employer and their TWC tax account number if possible (should be on your paystub).

acutally u can file after u get ur layoff notice!!!! i did this last year, just put the date of ur last day in the application. ull get denied at first but then when the day comes it processes. worked 4 me!

While you can't file before your last day of work, there are things you can do to prepare. TWC has a document checklist on their website. Also, if you receive any severance pay, be sure to report that when you file as it may affect when your benefits begin. After filing, you'll need to register with WorkInTexas.com and begin documenting at least 3 work search activities per week. You're already ahead of the game by applying for jobs! As for timeline, expect 2-3 weeks from filing to first payment if everything goes smoothly. If there are issues with your claim, it could take longer while TWC investigates.

You'll register with WorkInTexas.com after filing your initial claim. TWC will actually prompt you to do this during the process. Just follow the instructions carefully and keep track of all communication from TWC. One more tip - when you do file, do it early in the morning on a weekday if possible. The system gets overloaded later in the day and on weekends, which can cause technical issues.

i just went thru this in november... file exactly on your last day, not before not after. and make sure you request payment every two weeks even if youre still waiting for approval otherwise youll miss weeks of payment

My cousin works at TWC and she says they're super backed up right now processing claims from the holiday season layoffs. You might want to check if your company is doing a mass layoff filing - sometimes HR will file a mass claim for everyone being laid off at once which can speed things up.

One more important thing - when you do file, make sure you select the correct reason for separation. Since this is a layoff due to company restructuring, you'll want to select something like "Laid off due to lack of work" or similar option. Selecting the wrong reason can delay your claim while TWC investigates. Also, if you have direct deposit set up for your paychecks, have that bank information ready. You can set up direct deposit for your unemployment benefits which is much faster than waiting for a debit card in the mail.

The whole system is designed to make it IMPOSSIBLE to get benefits!!! I lost my job in October and didn't see a PENNY until December because they kept saying my "identity verification was pending" even though I did the ID.me thing like 5 times! Be prepared to fight for what you deserve!

Thanks everyone for all this helpful information! I'm feeling a bit more prepared now. I'll wait until the 18th to file, but I'll start getting all my documentation together. And I'll make sure to request payments even while waiting for approval, and to set up direct deposit. Fingers crossed everything goes smoothly!