TWC requesting work search logs - Will they verify my out-of-state job contacts?

theyll def call to check sometimes. my cousin got busted for making up contacts lol

TWC does conduct random audits of work search activities, but they don't verify every single contact for every claimant. The bigger issue here is that Texas requires a minimum of 3 work search activities per week for most counties (some rural counties require fewer). Since you only listed 3 contacts and they were all out-of-state, you might have a problem. Texas work search requirements technically prefer in-state contacts, but out-of-state contacts can be acceptable if they're within a reasonable commuting distance or you can demonstrate willingness to relocate. Shreveport being 45 minutes away is probably fine, but you should document that these were actual work search activities - did you submit applications, resumes, or have formal conversations about employment? Just "checking if they're hiring" might not be considered a qualifying work search activity unless you can document it properly. For future weeks, I'd recommend making sure you have at least 3 SOLID work search activities that meet TWC's criteria.

Im in the same boat right now!! TWC requested my work search logs from last month and I'm FREAKING OUT because half my contacts were through Indeed quick-apply and I didn't save all the confirmation emails. Has anyone been through an audit and know what happens if they can't verify some of your contacts?? Will they cut off my benefits completely??

To answer your questions directly: 1. Yes, TWC does sometimes verify work search contacts, but they don't check everyone. They typically do random audits or check if something seems suspicious. 2. Out-of-state contacts CAN be acceptable, especially since Shreveport is within commuting distance as you mentioned. However, you need to make sure these were legitimate work search activities, not just casual conversations. What counts as a valid work search activity? Submitting applications, sending resumes, formal interviews, etc. Just calling to "see if they're hiring" might not qualify unless you followed up with a resume or application. Also, keep in mind that Texas requires a minimum of 3 work search activities per week. Since you only listed 3 and they're all out-of-state, I'd recommend increasing your activities for future weeks and including some Texas employers. If you're having trouble reaching TWC to discuss this, I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to a rep quickly instead of waiting on hold forever. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P88?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh that shows how it works. Helped me resolve a similar work search issue last month.

I had this happen 2 months ago!!! I was TERRIFIED they would cut me off because one of my contacts was just asking a friend about openings at their company (didn't even apply formally). TWC did call 2 of my contacts but not the friend one thankfully. They ended up approving my benefits but sent me a warning letter about making sure future work searches meet their requirements. My advice: be SUPER detailed in your documentation. For each contact include: - Full company name and address - Name and title of person you contacted - Date and method of contact (phone, email, in person) - Position you inquired about - Result of contact This saved me when they questioned one of my contacts!

out of state contacts are fine as long as you're actually willing to work there. I had contacts in oklahoma (i live near the border) and TWC never had a problem with it. just be honest if they ask about it.

The REAL problem with TWC is they change what counts as "valid" whenever they feel like it!! I had 5 online applications and they told me that wasn't enough because I needed "varied methods" of job searching. Then my friend just had in-person inquiries and they said she needed some online applications too! It's like they WANT to deny benefits!!!!!

Update: I just called TWC (finally got through after 2 hours on hold!) and asked specifically about out-of-state work searches. The rep said they ARE acceptable as long as: 1. You're legitimately willing/able to work there 2. You can document the contact properly 3. You meet the minimum required number of work searches Since Shreveport is only 45 mins away and you have family in Texarkana where you could stay, those should count as valid activities IF you properly documented them. The rep did suggest making sure at least some of your weekly contacts are in Texas going forward though.

I went through a similar audit last year and can share what I learned. TWC does verify contacts, but not every single one - they focus on questionable entries or if your pattern looks suspicious. Your out-of-state contacts should be fine since you have legitimate reasons (previous employers and family connection for relocation). The key is documentation. Make sure you can prove these were actual work search activities - save those emails you sent with your resume, and for the phone call with your friend, write down the date, what positions you discussed, and his business info. Going forward, I'd recommend mixing in some Texas employers to show you're casting a wide net. Also, try to vary your search methods - online applications, direct employer contact, networking, etc. This shows you're making a genuine effort. Don't panic too much - if your contacts are legitimate (which they sound like they are), you should be okay. The people who get in real trouble are the ones making up fake contacts or not actually conducting any searches at all.