TWC unemployment eligibility after self-employment since 2021?

Unfortunately, regular Texas unemployment benefits are based on W-2 wages during your base period (roughly the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters before you file). Since your last W-2 employment was in 2021, those wages would be way outside your base period if you apply now in 2025. Self-employment income doesn't count toward regular UI eligibility unless you were paying unemployment taxes on yourself through a corporation. You can still apply, but be prepared for a disqualification notice.

I was in the EXACT same boat last winter!! The TWC website is super confusing about this. They dont say anywhere that self employed ppl dont qualify until after you waste time applying!!!!!

You should still apply anyway. The TWC system automatically checks your wages in their database. Sometimes companies report wages that you might have forgotten about, or there might be special programs available when you get denied for regular UI. Just make sure to answer everything honestly about your self-employment during the application process. There's also a chance that if you formed an LLC or S-Corp for your self-employment and paid unemployment taxes, you might qualify that way.

ya know sometimes u can get partial unemployment if u find a part time job while still looking for full time work. maybe thats an option?

Have you tried calling TWC directly to ask about your specific situation? That would give you the most accurate answer. I know getting through to them is nearly impossible most days with the constant busy signals and disconnections, but I recently used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to a TWC agent in about 20 minutes when I'd been trying for days on my own. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh The agent I spoke with was super helpful about explaining my options when I had a non-standard employment situation (though different from yours).

I had a similar situation in 2024, though I had some part-time W-2 work mixed in with my self-employment. Here's what you need to know: 1. Texas looks at your base period (first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters) 2. You need wages in at least 2 quarters during that base period 3. You must have earned enough total wages during that time to qualify 4. Self-employment income does NOT count unless you've been paying unemployment taxes If your last W-2 job was in 2021, those wages won't be in your current base period for a 2025 claim. However, if you call TWC directly and explain your situation, they might direct you to other assistance programs like workforce development grants or retraining opportunities through Workforce Solutions offices. Don't just apply online and wait for a rejection - talk to someone who can advise on alternatives.

The whole system is RIGGED against self-employed people!!! We pay taxes but get NONE of the safety nets that regular employees get. It's total BS especially when the economy tanks and clients stop hiring freelancers first!!! 😡😡😡

Thanks everyone for the responses. Sounds like I probably won't qualify for regular unemployment since my W-2 work was too long ago. I'm going to try calling TWC using that Claimyr service to see if there are any other programs I might qualify for, and also check out Workforce Solutions for retraining options. Might be time to go back to traditional employment for a while until things stabilize. Really appreciate all the advice!

Just wanted to add that if you do end up going back to W-2 employment, you might want to consider keeping some freelance work on the side if possible. That way you're building up those unemployment contributions again while maintaining some self-employment income streams. I know a lot of people who do a hybrid approach - like working part-time or contract-to-hire positions while keeping their best freelance clients. It's not always feasible depending on your field, but it can provide more stability than going all-in on either direction. Also gives you options if you ever want to transition back to full self-employment later when the market improves.

One thing to keep in mind is that even if you don't qualify for regular unemployment, you might still be eligible for other TWC services like job placement assistance and career counseling at no cost. I went through their WorkInTexas.com system when I was transitioning between careers and found it actually pretty useful - they helped me update my resume and connected me with employers in my area. Since you've been self-employed for so long, they might also have resources specifically for people transitioning from freelance/gig work back to traditional employment. It's worth exploring even if the unemployment benefits don't pan out.