TWC phone system always says 'all representatives are busy' - any way to get through?

Trust me, it's not just you. I tried calling for over a week with the same results. It's like they don't actually have any representatives working there anymore! I swear the whole 'we're experiencing high call volume' thing is just an excuse. My theory is they're understaffed and can't handle the volume. I finally got through by using Claimyr (claimyr.com) - they have this system that keeps dialing for you until it gets through, then calls you when there's an actual human on the line. Saved me days of frustration. Check out their demo if you want to see how it works: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh

The TWC phone system is definitely overwhelmed, but there are a few strategies that might help: 1. Try calling on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday (Monday and Friday are typically the busiest days) 2. Call between 10:30-11:30am or 2:30-3:30pm when lunch shifts are changing 3. When you first get through the automated system, choose the Spanish option, then when a representative answers, explain you need English assistance (many are bilingual) 4. Double-check that you're calling the correct number for your specific issue (benefits questions vs. payment issues have different contact numbers) Also, have you tried managing your claim through the online portal? Many issues can be resolved without needing to call. Look for any correspondence in your inbox that might explain the payment delay.

same happening to me since JANUARY!!!! its all a SCAM they dont want to pay us whats owed!!!! i filed my claim 6 weeks ago still nothing and cant get thru on phones either

I've had success calling exactly at 1:30pm. For some reason that time seems to have fewer callers. Also, make sure you're calling the correct number for your area code. TWC has different Tele-Centers handling different regions. If you're in the Houston area, the 281-983-1100 number sometimes has shorter wait times than the main 800 number. When you do get through, immediately ask for a callback number in case you get disconnected. Nothing worse than waiting forever and then losing the call!

I got thru yesterday after trying for like 2 weeks. heres what i did. i kept hitting 0# over and over during the recording until it transfered me. still had to wait like 45 min on hold but at least i got in the que lol

Update: I got my issue resolved today after using Claimyr. The TWC agent told me there was a flag on my account because my last employer contested my claim (which they didn't tell me about!). She removed the hold and said my payment should process in 2-3 business days. Worth every penny not to spend another week trying to get through.

I work with unemployment claims professionally, and the truth is that TWC has been dealing with staffing shortages since the pandemic. They never fully recovered from the overwhelming volume of claims, and their phone systems are outdated. Besides the tips others have shared, I'd recommend also trying these options: 1. Contact your state representative's office. They often have direct channels to TWC and can help escalate your case. 2. Use the chat feature on the TWC website instead of calling. It's often faster to get a response, though it's only available during certain hours. 3. Email ui.ombudsmen@twc.texas.gov with your name, last 4 of SSN, and a brief description of your issue. They typically respond within 3-5 business days. If your payment has been pending for 2 weeks, there's likely a specific issue with your claim that needs resolution - could be work search documentation, an employer protest, or identity verification.