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TWC claim gives EM22 error online - can I apply in person at workforce office?

Been trying to file my unemployment claim since Monday and every time I get to the final submission screen, I keep getting this weird 'EM22' error message. I've tried using different browsers (Chrome, Firefox, even Edge!) but nothing works. Called the TWC number at least 15 times today but either get a busy signal or it hangs up automatically saying "all agents are busy." At this point I'm getting desperate. Can I just go to a Texas Workforce Commission office in person and file my claim there? Will they even let me in or do I need an appointment? Has anyone had success doing this? I really need to get this claim started ASAP since I've already been without income for 2 weeks after being laid off from my warehouse job.

Zoe Alexopoulos

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Yes, you can go to a local Workforce Solutions office to get help with your unemployment claim. I had a similar issue (different error though) and visited the office in Houston last month. They have computers you can use and staff who can assist. You don't necessarily need an appointment for basic assistance, but I'd recommend calling your local office first to check their current procedures. Make sure to bring your ID, social security card, and any termination/layoff documentation. The staff can help you navigate the online system or provide alternatives if the website continues to give you trouble.

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CyberSamurai

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Thank you! Do you know if they'll be able to backdate my claim to when I actually lost my job? I'm worried about losing those weeks of benefits because of this stupid error.

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Jamal Carter

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The EM22 error is a system timeout issue - happens when too many ppl are on the site. Try applying really early in the morning (like 5-6am) or late at night after midnight. Worked for me!

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CyberSamurai

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Thanks for the tip! I'll try submitting super early tomorrow. Did your claim process normally after you got through?

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Mei Liu

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The in-person option works but there's usually a LONG wait so bring something to do. When I went to the Austin office in February there were at least 30 people ahead of me and I waited almost 3 hours!!! Just be prepared. And YES they can backdate your claim to your actual separation date - make sure to tell them exactly when you were laid off and bring any paperwork that proves it.

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CyberSamurai

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Ugh, 3 hours?? That's brutal but still better than not getting through at all I guess. I do have my termination letter so I'll definitely bring that. Thanks for the warning about the wait times!

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Liam O'Donnell

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I've helped several people with TWC claims this year, and the EM22 error is frustrating but fairly common. It's an error that typically happens when the system can't process your specific claim details online for some reason. You have three options: 1) Keep trying online during off-peak hours (early morning or late night) 2) Visit a Workforce Solutions office in person (bring ALL your documentation) 3) Get through to TWC by phone (which can be very difficult) If you need to get through to TWC by phone quickly, there's a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that many people have had success with. They have a system that holds your place in line and calls you back when a TWC agent is available. They have a video explaining how it works: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh Regarding backdating: Yes, TWC can backdate your claim to your actual separation date as long as you have documentation. Just make sure to explain that you've been trying to file but kept encountering technical errors.

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CyberSamurai

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Thanks for all the detailed info! I'll check out that Claimyr service if I can't get through tonight or tomorrow morning. Seems worth it if it actually gets me connected to someone who can help.

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Amara Nwosu

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DONT WASTE YOUR TIME at the workforce office!!! I went last week and they told me they cant actually FILE claims there, they can only help you use the computers! Still need to get through the same broken website!! Complete waste of 2 hours!!

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Zoe Alexopoulos

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That's not entirely accurate. While some offices have limited capabilities, most Workforce Solutions offices can provide assistance beyond just computer access. They can help troubleshoot specific errors and in some cases have direct lines to TWC representatives who can assist with technical issues. Your experience may vary by location though.

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AstroExplorer

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I had this same exact error last month trying to file. I eventually got it to work by completely clearing my browser cache and cookies, then using a fresh browser session. Something about the way the site stores session data was causing problems. might be worth trying before driving all the way to an office.

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CyberSamurai

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That's a great suggestion I hadn't thought of! I'll try clearing everything out and using a fresh browser before attempting again. Thanks!

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After dealing with the same issue for days, I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned above and got through to TWC in about 45 minutes instead of trying for days. The agent told me the EM22 error was happening because I had worked in multiple states during my base period and the online system couldn't process my claim automatically - it needed manual review. Once they got it entered manually by phone everything was fine. Not sure if that's your situation but thought I'd share what caused mine.

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CyberSamurai

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I actually did work in Oklahoma for 3 months last year before moving back to Texas, so that might be my issue too! Thanks for sharing your experience - gives me hope there's actually a solution.

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Jamal Carter

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did u try using a different device? my laptop kept giving errors but when i used my phone it worked fine lol

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CyberSamurai

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I haven't tried my phone yet! That's such a simple solution I completely overlooked. Will definitely try that tonight, thanks!

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Zoe Alexopoulos

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Update from what I'm hearing: There's currently a known issue with the TWC system affecting some applications with the EM22 error. For claimants with out-of-state wages, previous claims, or certain employer types, the online system may reject the application. In these cases, filing by phone is actually the recommended option. If you're still having trouble after trying all these suggestions, definitely use either the Workforce office or a service to get through by phone.

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CyberSamurai

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Thanks for the update! Since I did work out of state recently, sounds like phone might be my only option. I'll try the early morning website attempt first, then move to phone if that doesn't work. Really appreciate everyone's help!

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