TWC benefits expired - any extended benefits still available in Texas?

Unfortunately, Texas doesn't currently offer any extended benefits program as of 2025. The pandemic-era programs like PUA, PEUC, and EB all ended years ago. Once you exhaust your regular UI benefits (the 26 weeks), that's it unless Congress passes new legislation. You can try applying for other assistance programs though - SNAP benefits (food stamps), TANF, or rental assistance through local organizations. Also make sure you're registered with WorkInTexas.com for job matching services. Hang in there! The healthcare field is actually growing in certain areas. Are you looking at clinics and telehealth companies too or just hospitals?

I JUST went through this exact thing!!! The 26 weeks goes by so fast and then BOOM - you're just cut off. It's RIDICULOUS how TX doesn't help people who are STILL LOOKING for work after benefits end!!! Other states have better systems but Texas TWC is a JOKE once your benefits are gone. I've been calling for 3 weeks trying to see if there are ANY options and can't even get a human on the phone. The automated system just tells me my benefits are exhausted. Thanks for nothing TWC!!!! 😡😡😡

To give you the proper information: Texas only offers the standard 26 weeks of regular unemployment benefits unless special federal extensions are authorized (which they aren't currently). However, I recommend a couple things: 1. If it's been a full year since you first applied, you may be eligible to file a new claim if you had any work during your benefit year. Even part-time work might qualify you for some benefits. 2. Make sure you're meeting all the work search requirements (minimum 3 activities per week in Texas) and documenting them in case you become eligible again later. 3. If your financial situation is severe, contact 211 Texas for emergency assistance programs. I'd also recommend using Claimyr if you need to actually speak with someone at TWC. I was in a similar situation and couldn't get answers for weeks until I used their service (claimyr.com). They have a system that helps you get through to a TWC agent quickly instead of facing busy signals all day. You can see how it works in their video: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh

My sister just filed a new claim after her benefits ran out and she got approved again but for a much lower amount. She had worked like 2 months during her benefit year so that was enough. Definitely worth trying if you worked at all! Also have you checked out healthcare staffing agencies? Places like AMN Healthcare or Medical Solutions? They're always looking for medical assistants for temp assignments and sometimes they can lead to permanent positions.

I went through this last month. The TWC site is confusing because they don't clearly say "no more benefits after 26 weeks" - they just say your benefits are exhausted. I spent hours trying to find some kind of extension process that doesn't exist. If you did work during your benefit year, definitely file a new claim. I had 10 weeks of part-time work and qualified for a new claim at about 60% of my previous weekly benefit amount. It's not great but better than nothing. Also, double check your TWC correspondence inbox. Sometimes they send options or other program recommendations but the notifications get lost in email.

To follow up on your question about filing a new claim - you can absolutely do it online and it's much faster than calling. Log into your TWC account and look for the "Apply for Benefits" option. The system will recognize you've had a previous claim and will ask different questions than your first application. With 6 weeks of part-time work, you might qualify for some benefits, though the amount would be lower than your previous claim. The formula is based on your highest-paid quarter in your base period, so even part-time work counts. One important note: when you file again, make sure you report ALL work and earnings during your previous benefit year accurately. TWC cross-checks this information against employer reports, and discrepancies can lead to overpayment issues.

my benefits ran out last yr and i tried that claimyr thing someone mentioned. it actually worked and got me thru to twc in like 30 min when i couldnt get thru for days before. the agent told me since i had some work in my benefit yr i could apply again but would get less money. ended up getting about $185/week instead of the $320 i was getting before. not great but helped until i found something.

For anyone reading this thread later, here's a summary of options when your Texas unemployment benefits expire in 2025: 1. If you worked during your benefit year (even part-time): File a new claim online 2. If you didn't work during your benefit year: Unfortunately, no extensions are currently available 3. Other assistance options: - SNAP (food benefits): https://yourtexasbenefits.com/ - TANF (cash assistance for families) - Texas Rent Relief programs (through local agencies) - Community Action Agencies can help with utilities - Local workforce centers for job search assistance 4. Contact 211 Texas to be connected with resources One more tip: if you need to reach TWC by phone to discuss specific options for your situation, remember that Mondays and Tuesdays are their busiest days. Try calling on Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning for better odds of getting through.