Unemployment in Texas is administered by the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC), a state agency that processes claims, determines eligibility, and pays benefits to workers who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. In 2026, Texas unemployment pays a maximum of $605 per week for up to 26 weeks, with no waiting week before benefits begin.
Texas Workforce Commission (TWC): What It Does
The Texas Workforce Commission operates the Unemployment Benefits Services (UBS) portal at twc.texas.gov, which is the primary platform for filing claims, requesting payments, and appealing decisions. The TWC also operates a network of Workforce Solutions offices and maintains WorkInTexas.com, the job search platform that unemployment claimants are required to use.
Who Qualifies for Texas Unemployment
Texas unemployment insurance covers employees who worked for covered employers. You must have been laid off, had your hours involuntarily reduced, or been fired for reasons other than misconduct. You must have earned wages in at least two quarters of your base period and your total base period wages must equal at least 37 times your calculated weekly benefit amount.
Independent contractors, most self-employed individuals, and commission-only workers generally do not qualify. Workers who quit without good cause connected to the work are also generally disqualified.
How to File for Unemployment in Texas
Filing for Texas unemployment is done entirely online or by phone. The online portal at twc.texas.gov/services/apply-benefits is available 24/7. If you cannot access the internet, you can call TWC’s Tele-Center at 800-939-6631 during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
File your claim as soon as possible after becoming unemployed. TWC processes claims from the Sunday of the week you file, so waiting costs you potential benefit weeks.
Requesting Payment: The Every-Two-Weeks Requirement
Approval of your claim does not automatically trigger payment. You must actively request payment every two weeks through the UBS portal or by phone. This is a common mistake that causes claimants to lose weeks of benefits — the system does not pay retroactively for weeks you forgot to certify.
If you miss your regular filing day, you may request payment on Thursday through Saturday of the same week as a backup window. Missing both windows means forfeiting those weeks’ benefits permanently.
Appealing a TWC Denial
If TWC denies your claim, you have the right to appeal within 14 calendar days of the date on the denial notice. Appeals are initially reviewed by a TWC Appeal Tribunal. Many initial denials are reversed on appeal, particularly in cases involving employer-disputed claims or complex separation circumstances.
Related guides: Texas unemployment benefits | Texas minimum wage | My Texas Benefits
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I file for unemployment in Texas?
File online at twc.texas.gov/services/apply-benefits anytime, 24/7. You can also call TWC’s Tele-Center at 800-939-6631 during business hours.
How long does it take to get approved for Texas unemployment?
TWC typically issues a written determination within two to three weeks of filing. Begin requesting payment every two weeks starting immediately after filing.
What happens if I get a job while collecting Texas unemployment?
Report all earnings when you request payment. Texas allows partial benefits if your weekly earnings are below 125% of your weekly benefit amount. Failing to report earnings constitutes fraud.
Can I get Texas unemployment if I was fired?
It depends on the reason. Being fired for reasons other than misconduct can qualify you for benefits. Misconduct terminations typically disqualify claimants.
What is the TWC phone number for Texas unemployment?
The TWC Tele-Center number is 800-939-6631. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time.