As job losses continue to rise for Dallas-Fort Worth residents, many unemployed workers are accessing their unemployment benefits for the first time. The process can sometimes be confusing and frustrating for those who are unfamiliar with it, so here are a few tips on navigating the unemployment benefits system:
- Once you are unemployed do not delay filing for your unemployment benefits. Visit http://www.twc.state.tx.us/ui/uiclaim.html to find out if you qualify for unemployment insurance benefits and how you can apply.
- If your unemployment is due to a “no fault” job loss and you have paid into the system for the appropriate amount of time, collecting benefits should possible. On the other hand if you were fired “for cause” (i.e. failure to perform, workplace rule violations etc.) you will not qualify for unemployment insurance benefits.
- When calling the unemployment benefits office make sure that you have your social security number, address, phone numbers and the contact information and employment dates (hire date/exit date) for your previous employers over the past 18 months
- Because Mondays and Tuesdays are usually the busiest days, it’s best to call the unemployment office later in the week. Usually the wait times are long, so be prepared to stay on hold for an extended (sometimes up to an hour) period of time.