If you have lost your job and are thinking about filing for unemployment benefits in Texas, there are a number of factors to consider before filing. This includes your estimation of whether you are likely going to be unemployed for an extended period, your financial resources, and your beliefs about public benefits and the steps needed to secure them.
When it comes to the Texas unemployment benefits and program, here are the top 5 considerations.
Do You Qualify
The first question to consider is whether you qualify for unemployment benefits. Texas has a number of rules that you have to meet. Very generally, you have to be unemployed through no fault of your own and available and able to work full time. You also have to have earned enough wages during your base period. The base period is usually the five calendar quarters before you apply.
How You Apply for Unemployment Benefits
The second question to consider is how to apply for unemployment benefits. This involves submitting an application. The application can be submitted on the TWC website online or by calling the TWC.
How Much Are Your Benefits
You also have to consider the amount of your benefits. Benefits do not match your prior income. The amount is based on your prior wages. The minimum weekly benefit is $69 and it maxes out just under $500. The TWC has a benefits calculator on its website that you can use to estimate the amount of your benefits.
How Long Will You Get Benefits
Unemployment benefits do not last forever. The time period depends on your base period earnings. It is usually 52 weeks.
Benefits may stop if you fail to file weekly or fail to respond to the TWC timely. They may also stop if you fail to seek full-time work or fail to accept suitable work (at least 75% of your normal wage).
If Your Benefits Denied
You have the right to appeal the denial of unemployment benefits (and yes, we can help with this–click here). You have to do so timely. There is a short two-week time to file–which starts on the date the decision was mailed to you. The appeal should be submitted in writing, either on the TWC website by mailing or faxing a letter to the appeals department. The letter conveying the denial will include instructions as to how to file the appeal. It is important that you keep filing weekly claims as you may be paid for these weeks if you eventually win your appeal.