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TWC benefits exhausted - any extended benefits or programs after regular UI runs out?

Hey everyone, I just received my last unemployment payment from TWC last week. I've been on regular UI for the past 26 weeks (since being laid off from my warehouse supervisor position), and now my benefits balance shows $0. I'm still actively job hunting (doing 5+ work searches weekly) but no luck landing anything yet. My rent is due in 2 weeks and I'm getting desperate. Are there any extensions or other benefits I can apply for now that my regular unemployment is exhausted? Has anyone successfully transitioned to another program after UI ran out? The TWC website is super confusing about this and I can't get through on the phone.

Unfortunately, Texas isn't currently offering any extended benefits programs since the unemployment rate doesn't meet the federal threshold for EB activation. Once your regular UI is exhausted, that's typically it unless there's a new federal program (which there isn't right now). Your best options are: 1. Make sure you're registered with WorkInTexas.com and actively using their job matching services 2. Check with your local Workforce Solutions office for job placement help and possibly retraining opportunities 3. Look into SNAP benefits for food assistance if you qualify 4. Some counties have rental assistance programs - check with your local social services

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Nia Jackson

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Thanks for the info, depressing as it is. I've been on WorkInTexas but will check out the Workforce Solutions office. Do you know if I need an appointment? Also, would applying for SNAP affect my unemployment if I somehow get an extension later?

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CosmicCruiser

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same boat here. ran out last month after 6 months. its brutal out there. applied for snap got approved pretty quick tho

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Nia Jackson

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How much does SNAP actually help? Is it enough to make a difference? I'm trying to figure out if I need to prioritize applying for that or spending more time on job applications.

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Aisha Khan

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There is actually a way to possibly qualify for a Disaster Unemployment Assistance if you live in a federally declared disaster area. Also, don't forget to check if you qualify for Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) if your job was lost due to foreign trade/competition. Look into the TWC's Self-Employment Assistance program too. The trickiest part is reaching someone at TWC who can check your specific eligibility for these programs. I was struggling to get through on the phone lines for weeks until I found Claimyr (claimyr.com). They have this system that connects you directly to a TWC agent, usually within about 30 minutes instead of calling for days. Totally worth checking out their demo video: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh Once I finally got through to TWC, they were able to tell me exactly what additional programs I qualified for, which regular agents on the 800 number couldn't.

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Ethan Taylor

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No disaster assistance unless your in a actual disaster area lol. And TAA is only if your company specifically got approved for it and notified workers. Most don't qualify.

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Yuki Ito

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THE SYSTEM IS RIGGED!! I maxed out my benefits 2 months ago and TWC doesn't care AT ALL. I sent 8 messages through their portal and ZERO RESPONSE!!! They make it IMPOSSIBLE to get help once your money runs out. Texas unemployment is a JOKE compared to other states. In California my cousin got extensions for like a year!!! You should try calling your state rep's office - only way I finally got anyone to even acknowledge my situation.

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Carmen Lopez

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While I understand your frustration, the extended benefits in California and other states ended a while ago. Those were specifically tied to pandemic federal programs that no longer exist. In Texas, the maximum benefit period is typically 26 weeks for regular UI unless there's a federally-declared extension period, which we don't currently have. But you're right that contacting your state representative can sometimes help navigate bureaucratic roadblocks.

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Andre Dupont

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check ur determination letter again, sometimes u can qualify for whats called TRA benefits if ur job went overseas. my brother got them when the factory closed and moved to mexico

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Nia Jackson

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My company didn't move overseas - they just downsized and eliminated my position. I don't think I'd qualify for TRA from what you're saying.

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Carmen Lopez

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I work as a career counselor at Workforce Solutions, and I'd recommend coming into your local office ASAP. While there aren't currently any UI extensions available, we offer several programs that might help: 1. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) can provide funding for occupational training in high-demand fields if you qualify 2. Dislocated Worker programs might apply to your situation 3. We can help with job search strategies, resume improvements, and direct employer connections 4. Our staff can assess your eligibility for other assistance programs No appointment needed at most offices, but I'd recommend calling your local office first to check their specific procedures. The earlier in the day you come, the shorter the wait usually is.

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Nia Jackson

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Thank you! This is really helpful. I'll look up my nearest office and go in tomorrow morning. Do I need to bring anything specific with me? My TWC account info and ID?

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To answer your follow-up question - applying for SNAP won't affect any future UI extensions (if they become available). SNAP and UI are separate programs, and receiving one doesn't disqualify you from the other. Definitely worth applying if you're running low on funds.

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Nia Jackson

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That's good to know, thanks! I'll go ahead and apply for SNAP today.

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Ethan Taylor

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my sister gets like 250 for snap for just her so it helps alot with food

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CosmicCruiser

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yeah i get 187 for just me and it covers all my groceries if i shop at aldi and buy the cheap stuff

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Carmen Lopez

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For your visit to Workforce Solutions, bring: - Photo ID - Social Security Card - Resume (if you have one, even if outdated) - TWC correspondence/documents showing your claim is exhausted - Work history information - Any certifications or licenses you hold This will help us assess which programs you might qualify for and speed up the process.

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Nia Jackson

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Perfect - I have all of those except my Social Security card. Would my tax return with my SSN on it work instead?

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Carmen Lopez

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Yes, a tax return or other official document with your SSN will usually work as a substitute. Bring whatever you have that shows your SSN.

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Nia Jackson

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Thanks so much for all your help. I feel a bit less panicked now that I have a plan. I'll update this thread after I visit the Workforce office tomorrow in case it helps anyone else in my situation.

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