TWC denying my DUA claim despite submitted documents - stuck in 90-day appeal backlog

I went through something similar with my DUA claim back in March after the Houston storms. The 'credibility' issue usually means they think your documentation doesn't prove you were actually working before the disaster hit. For self-employment, they want to see a consistent pattern of income, not just occasional jobs. Did you submit bank statements showing regular deposits from clients? That's what finally got mine approved. Also, make sure your 1099s match perfectly with your Schedule C - any discrepancy and they'll deny you.

Don't wait for the appeal! Call TWC and specifically ask for a 'reconsideration' based on new evidence (your bank statements). When you call, tell them you want to speak with a DUA specialist specifically, not just any claim rep. They'll probably tell you they can't transfer you, but keep insisting. Once you get a DUA specialist, explain you have additional documentation that addresses their specific concerns. Send everything via fax with a cover letter explaining exactly how each document proves your employment status before the disaster. I did this and got approved within 10 days without going through the formal appeal.

the problem is probly that ur using regular invoices. for DUA u need 2 have special disaster invoices with red stamps that say FEMA APPROVED. my cousin works at twc and told me this secret. also make sure ur using the right disaster code on ur forms.

Been trying to reach TWC about my claim for WEEKS with no luck! Just busy signals or getting disconnected after waiting on hold forever. So frustrating!!

The TWC system is BROKEN!!!! I went through 4 denials for regular UI before finally getting approved. Their so-called "examiners" barely look at the documents we submit. They just hit DENY and move to the next claim. It's all about meeting their daily quotas and making us give up. DON'T GIVE UP! Keep appealing, keep calling, keep submitting evidence. Document EVERY call with names, dates, and what was said. When you finally get to the appeal hearing, bring up every contradictory thing they told you. The appeal judges are actually separate from TWC and tend to be more fair.

For DUA specifically, make sure you're emphasizing how the disaster directly impacted your ability to work. It's not enough to show you were working before - you need to clearly document how the disaster prevented you from continuing. Take photos of damage, get statements from clients who cancelled because of the disaster, anything that creates a clear before/after picture. TWC is extra strict with DUA because it's federally funded through FEMA, not regular state unemployment funds.

To directly answer your question about the 90-day appeal backlog: yes, it's real, but for DUA claims they're supposed to expedite the process. Call the appeals department directly at 512-463-2700 and explain it's a DUA appeal, not regular UI. They should prioritize your case because DUA has federal timelines attached. When you file your appeal, write "DISASTER CLAIM - EXPEDITED REVIEW REQUESTED" in big letters at the top of your appeal letter.

Update on my earlier advice: I just remembered that for DUA claims specifically, you need to submit Form E-230DUA along with your additional evidence for reconsideration. It's a separate form from regular unemployment reconsiderations. You can download it from the TWC website or ask them to email it to you. This form allows you to request reconsideration without going through the formal appeal process. Fill it out completely and attach all your additional evidence (bank statements, damage photos, client emails about cancelled work, etc.).

Just want to add - when you submit your bank statements, highlight the deposits that correspond to your 1099s and invoices. Don't make them hunt for the information. I created a simple spreadsheet showing: Date, Client, Invoice #, Amount, and Date Deposited. This made it super clear how everything connected. The TWC examiner who finally approved my claim actually commented on how helpful that was.