What do I need to do to get my TWC benefits extended after regular UI runs out?

Extensions aren't automatic like they were during COVID. You'll need to keep filing your payment requests every two weeks, but when your regular benefits exhaust, you'll get a notification if you qualify for any extension programs. Right now in Texas, there's Extended Benefits (EB) available for some people, but you have to meet specific requirements. Make sure you're completing at least 3 work search activities each week and documenting them correctly.

my benefits ran out in feb and i didnt get any extension... they just stopped. sucks but thats how it goes sometimes

NOBODY EVER GETS THROUGH TO TWC!!!! I spent THREE WEEKS trying to get someone on the phone when my benefits were about to run out. They kept saying my case was "under review" but nobody could tell me what that meant! The whole system is DESIGNED to make you give up!!!

Extensions are eligibility-based now and not guaranteed. There are two potential extension types you might qualify for: 1. Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) - If your job was lost due to foreign competition 2. Extended Benefits (EB) - When state unemployment is high and you've exhausted regular benefits You'll receive a determination letter about 1-2 weeks before your benefits exhaust explaining if you qualify. The key is to maintain all your work search requirements (3 activities per week in Texas) and continue submitting payment requests even during the gap period. This creates a continuous claim record which is important for eligibility. If your determination is delayed or you need to understand why you might not qualify, you'll need to speak with a TWC representative directly.

I went thru this last month and got EB! Just keep requesting payment even if it says your benefits are exhausted. I got a letter about 10 days after my regular UI ran out saying I was approved for extended benefits. But definitely different from the auto-extensions during COVID times.

I had to deal with this situation last year. The most important thing is continuing to submit your payment requests every two weeks even after your benefits exhaust. This creates continuity in your claim. However, I had issues with my extension because there was a flag on my account I wasn't aware of. I couldn't get through on the regular TWC phone lines for days, but I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an agent within 20 minutes. They have a demo video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/V-IMvH88P1U?si=kNxmh025COIlIzKh The TWC agent was able to explain exactly why my extension was on hold and what documentation I needed to submit. Saved me weeks of uncertainty.

When I was applying for extended benefits I found out that my identity verification from ID.me had expired! No one told me and I had to redo the whole process. Make sure all your verification is current before your regular benefits end. Also double check that your work search logs are complete with all the right information. They scrutinize those more closely for extensions.

One other important thing to know is that the TWC system sometimes gets backed up with extension applications. If you don't hear anything within 10 days after your benefits exhaust, you should try to contact them. Your benefit amount might also change with an extension, usually it's the same or slightly less than your regular UI. The most common reasons people get denied extensions are: 1. Not meeting the minimum earnings requirement in your base period 2. Not maintaining proper work search activities 3. Having unreported income or work during your claim period If you've been keeping good records and reporting everything correctly, you should be in good shape.