AUSTIN ⎯ The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is encouraging individuals previously deemed monetarily ineligible for unemployment benefits to reapply online starting Sunday, April 5, 2020.
This date marks the beginning of a new quarter and as such the base period for unemployment benefits and those previously ineligible may now qualify.
Unemployment benefit eligibility is based on past wages, job separation and ongoing eligibility requirements. Currently past wages are calculated on a base period of October 2019-September 2019. However, starting on April 5, 2020, the base period changes to January 2019-December 2019. If you were denied unemployment benefits due to insufficient wages and worked during the January 2019-December 2019 base period, please visit the unemployment benefit services portal to reapply online.
To ensure Texans have access to essential benefits Gov. Greg Abbott waived waiting week requirements for those impacted by COVID-19 and TWC followed by waiving job search requirements. In addition to making it easier for Texans to received benefits, the Texas Workforce Commission is continuously working to expand tele center hours. Texans needing to speak to an individual can now call Monday-Friday 8:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. and Saturday 8:00a.m. to 5:00p.m.
TWC says they recognize that many Texans have faced delays on the agency’s website and tele-centers based on the unprecedented traffic in wake of COVID-19, the agency has made great strides in addressing these concerns.
In addition to expanding tele-center capacities, TWC is working closely with the Department of Information Resources (DIR) and other agency partners to expand website capabilities for Texans applying for unemployment benefits online. In addition to expanding capabilities, TWC is asking applicants to stagger their access and call times.
"Ensuring all Texans have access to benefits is TWC’s top priority. We encourage those who may now be monetary eligible to apply during their suggested time slot."
For questions about eligibility or how to apply visit: https://twc.texas.gov/jobseekers/eligibility-benefit-amounts
